The development of the artistic and cultural scene in Abu Dhabi is dazzling. Since the opening of the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the city has had a magnificent art and civilization museum on the water’s edge designed by Pritzker prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel. Overall, this opening has put international art in the Gulf on the spotlight. There is so much to discover on site such as the foundation of history museums and inombrabes galleries presenting emirati artists. Here is a selection of the best museums in Abu Dhabi.
Emirates National Auto Museum
Beyond the city center, bordering the desert, the Emirates National Auto Museum houses an impressive collection of vintage cars and intimidating military vehicles. More than 200 vehicles make up this collection of automobiles, which belongs to Sheikh Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan. The space features cars convertibles, classic American cars, all-terrain vehicles and the largest truck in the world: it deserves to go see.
Things To Do In Abu Dhabi
The Coastal capital of the United Arab Emirates is a great winter getaway. For many people, the destination is mainly dedicated to adults (…) desert playgrounds in the world, full of activities fun and world class attractions.
Warehouse421
Warehouse421 is a large industrial complex that houses a cultural center, art exhibitions and artists’ studios in the heart of the Al Mina Port District. The center is oriented towards contemporary art and design by U.A.E. artists. Exhibitions’ local artists explore many concepts. Films are screened that focus on filmmakers from the Middle East.
N2N Gallery
Don’t get me wrong, this is not the name of a neo-bank, but a gallery representing sculptures, graphic arts and paintings by mainly European artists. This elegant and remarkable gallery is nestled behind a café at the foot of the Al Ain tower. Black walls and exposed pipes give it an industrial feel, and the rigid backdrop makes the dynamic work burst. The space of a room has enough wall space for a dozen colorful and dreamy paintings.
Abu Dhabi Heritage Village
This place is managed by the Emirates Heritage Club. You will be suprised by its shape, reproduction of a traditional village. Traditional buildings and landscape here offer an immersive experience reminiscent of the region’s heritage and desert lifestyle. Different elements come to life, from pre-modern Abu Dhabi homes, to the historic fishing village and the Bedouin camp, to the souk, to the traditional mosque.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
It is now a must to see: the Louvre. This is the work of a long-awaited cultural collaboration between the UAE and France that dates back to 2007; after 10 years of work, the museum opened its doors with its unique philosophy and interpretation. It is considered the first universal museum in the Arab world. If that’s not enough reason to visit, the futuristic architecture of the winner of the Pritzker Prize Jean Nouvel certainly is.