The Zayed National Museum in Abu Dhabi, the national museum of the United Arab Emirates, now has an official opening date of 3 December.
Located in the Saadiyat Cultural District, the Zayed National Museum tells the story of the UAE from ancient times to the present day.
Named after the UAE's founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the museum explores the UAE's history, culture and legacy through exhibitions, research and public programming.
Guests will discover archaeological artefacts and historical objects combined with audiovisual and sensory experiences, as well as contemporary installations.
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said the new museum "presents the story of our land, our people, and our heritage in a way that is alive, evolving, and open to all".
He added, "History and innovation come together within the museum, creating a space where dialogue, learning, and exchange can flourish, and where visitors of all generations can engage with our nation’s journey from its ancient roots to its aspirations for the future.
"In opening these doors, we reaffirm our commitment to culture as a source of knowledge, connection, and inspiration for generations to come."
New museum on Saadiyat Island
Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Norman Foster of Foster + Partners, the new museum houses six permanent galleries.
These include Our Beginning, which is dedicated to the life and leadership of Sheikh Zayed, and Through Our Nature, which explores the diverse landscapes of the UAE.
To Our Ancestors, another gallery, examines evidence of human activity in the UAE region dating back 300,000 years.
Through Our Connection explores the ancient emirates, while By Our Coasts focuses on the development of the main coastal settlements through pearling, fishing and trading.
Al Masar Garden is an outdoor gallery housing native plants and trees, sculptures and multi-sensory installations.
Zayed National Museum’s collection includes more than 3,000 pieces, of which 1,500 will be on display.
To celebrate the museum's opening, there will be a programme of performances, workshops, tours and activities, as well as F&B options.
Images courtesy of the Zayed National Museum
