Zayed National Museum Opens with More Than 1,500 Objects Across Six Galleries in Abu Dhabi

UAE’s National Museum Opens to the Public in Saadiyat Cultural District

Zayed National Museum, the national museum of the United Arab Emirates and the centrepiece of Saadiyat Cultural District, has opened to the public. The museum tells the story of the land and its people, and it is positioned as a tribute to the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the nation. The opening follows the launch of teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi and Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and the reopening of Al Ain Museum during the year.

Zayed National Museum presents the history of the United Arab Emirates from the earliest evidence of human habitation to civilisations that influenced identity and culture. The museum places the story of Zayed at the centre of the narrative, presenting his life as a lens for exploring values associated with nation-building, including unity, identity, and development.

The museum displays more than 1,500 objects across six permanent galleries. These exhibitions combine archaeological artefacts, historic objects, audiovisual elements, sensory installations and reconstructions. The visitor route begins at the 600-metre outdoor gallery, Al Masar Garden, before moving to galleries that highlight Zayed’s life, the UAE’s natural landscapes and archaeological discoveries spanning three hundred thousand years. The displays explore how geography, innovation, exchange and faith influenced Emirati identity.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said, “As the national museum of the United Arab Emirates, Zayed National Museum tells the unfolding story of the land and its people. It demonstrates the unifying power of our history and our culture, providing a space where citizens, residents and visitors can see themselves reflected in the story of our people and our land. Bridging past, present and future, it will help shape how we understand the UAE’s evolving cultural narrative. As a world-class centre for research and learning, it will inspire and equip the next generation of Emirati curators, historians and conservators, enabling our nation to further contribute to knowledge production and global cultural discourse.”

Designed by architect Lord Norman Foster of Foster + Partners, the museum’s opening is described as a significant moment in the nation’s cultural narrative. It follows a year of artistic activity in the Saadiyat Cultural District that includes major museum openings and redevelopment projects.

To mark the opening, a month-long programme titled “Deep Roots and Everlasting Legacy” will run until December 31. The programme includes performances, workshops and cultural activities designed to engage the public. Activities feature traditional Razfa and Naashat dances, an immersive Gahwa experience developed with Bait Al Gahwa, and poetry, Taghrooda music, Nahma chants and the Nadba mountain call. Additional programming includes poetry recitals, musical showcases and hands-on workshops on traditional crafts, alongside guided museum tours. Workshops and tours require advance booking.

The museum features a retail shop, Al Nagwa Boutique, offering items inspired by collections and themes. Dining options include Erth Restaurant, Al Ghaf Cafe and the Garden Cafes, serving visitors across indoor and outdoor spaces.

Museum entry tickets and annual memberships are available on the website.

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