Joanna James
Abu Dhabi, the capital of UAE, has some amazing museums for lovers of history, culture, architecture and all the fine things in general. Explore these sites to gain a piece of knowledge about the fascinating Arab world, past and present.
The Abu Dhabi version of the Louvre is just as eye-catching as its French counterpart. Visiting this museum is one of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi. It is one of the largest museums in the UAE and a haven for lovers of art and showcases work from around the globe. One of its central attractions is the novel architecture of Jean Nouvel. Its domed roof creates an ethereal effect where speckles of light illuminate the interior of the museum. Among its star residents is the costliest painting to be sold, 'Salvator Mundi'. You can find several restaurants on the premises, like the Museum Café and the Aptitude Café, for a relaxing post-museum tour meal.
The Qasr al-Hosn is supposedly the first original building in Abu Dhabi and is an open-air historical museum. It was once the home to the first ruling family of the Emirates, the Al Nahyan. The display is held at the Qasr al Hosn Centre, where the exhibition retells the beginnings of the city, its roots, and its people in striking detail. There is also a festival from time to time known as the festival of Qasr-al Hosn with live music and cultural events. The site is open from 10 am – 9 pm on most days.
Observe what life is like for a typical Emirati! Heritage Village is located close to the beach and packed with all kinds of activities. For example, you can see art, antiquities, and the daily materials used by the Bedouins of yore. You can also discover how they produced their food in arid climates, the types of food they eat and prepare, and how the pearl trade is conducted. Heritage Village is found near the Corniche Brake Water near the Marina Mall and opens for visitors from 9 am to 4 pm. The likes of Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel are among the best accommodation options nearby.
Al-Ain Palace is an old fort turned into a museum and began to open its doors to guests in 2001. Now recognised as Qasr al-Ain, it is free for the general public to visit. Its attractive architecture is one of its principal attractions, while the museum owns many antiquities and displays exhibits about the country and its royal family. It is open daily from 8.30 am to 7 pm.
The museum was built in remembrance of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, UAE's founding father and president. Its architectural plan was drafted by Lord Norman Foster, a Pritzker Prize-winning architect. The museum portrays an in-depth look at the life of Sheikh Zayed through the years. An integral attraction of Abu Dhabi, the Zayed National Museum is located on Saadiyat Island.
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