Joanna James
As one of the Middle East's culturally rich cities, Abu Dhabi is home to an exciting array of art galleries and cultural institutions. Here are the must-visit museums and galleries in Abu Dhabi.
As the only instalment of the iconic Parisian museum outside of France, a tour of the Louvre Abu Dhabi is a rite of passage all Abu Dhabi visitors must experience. Having the distinct honour of being the largest art gallery in all of Abu Dhabi, this sprawling structure located on Saadiyat Island features an impressive collection of works from around the globe. With temporary and rotating exhibitions fed by the Louvre Museum in Paris, the venue is an art enthusiast's dream come true. What's more, the awe-inspiring structure built to house the museum is a work of art in itself designed by none other than Jean Nouvel.
Regarded as a newbie on Abu Dhabi's art and museum scene, Warehouse 421 first opened its doors to the public in 2015 and carved out a niche space where young Emirati talent is celebrated. Housed within a building that resembles a Muslim courtyard, the converted warehouses were transformed into a captivating gallery by Bjarke Ingels. With regular outdoor cinematic screenings and art workshops taking place throughout the year, Warehouse 421 is an interactive art hub for tourists.
Abu Dhabi's Heritage Village is not only the best venue to uncover the city's culture but also its tumultuous past as life-size recreations of what life was like before the discovery of oil cover every inch of this makeshift village. With areas dedicated to showcasing how ancient artisans created woodwork, weaved household items and other necessities, the village takes visitors on a trip back in time. Closing at 4 pm daily, it is best to visit the Heritage Village during the morning hours as that will allow tourists the time required to explore the venue in full.
The Zayed Heritage Centre is another iconic cultural institution in Abu Dhabi which explores the complex legacy of the UAE as well as how its former ruler Sheikh Zayed brought the country together to form a united nation. Showcasing exquisite personal objects which were once used by the Sheik such as furnishings, weapons and vehicles, the venue also displays a stunning portrait of the leader made using postage stamps.
Once called the "the birthplace of Abu Dhabi", Qasr Al Hosn is the resplendent home of the Al Nahyan family and the first structure to have been built in the desert state. Dating back to the 1760s, the household and fortress have been transformed into one of the UAE's most spectacular museums and a venue that plays host to many local events. Artefacts and relics from various periods are displayed inside the museum which also uses holographic technology to recreate life in Abu Dhabi in centuries past. Food vendors, dance performances and market shops are located outside the museum which is a must-visit for those based in a nearby Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara or any other Abu Dhabi resort in the area.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
