bu Dhabi’s Zayed National Museum has opened its doors, quickly becoming a landmark for culture, history, and heritage in the UAE. Situated in the Saadiyat Cultural District, near the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the museum offers visitors an immersive journey into the story of the nation—from its earliest human settlements and desert life to maritime trade and modern achievements under Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, fondly called “Baba Zayed.”
What makes the museum truly unique is its ability to create a personal connection with visitors. In the “Our Beginning” gallery, guests hear the voice of Sheikh Zayed speaking. Many have described the experience as emotional and unforgettable. One visitor said, “When I heard it, I couldn’t handle it and immediately cried.” Another remarked that it felt as if the founding father himself were present, guiding them through the UAE’s history.
The museum opens with 1,500 artefacts, expected to grow to more than 3,000 over time. Highlights include the ancient Abu Dhabi Pearl, rare folios from the Blue Quran, Sheikh Zayed’s personal Quran, a 1966 black Chrysler Newport, and an 18-metre Bronze Age Magan boat in the main atrium. The galleries also feature objects, artworks, and displays tracing trade, culture, and everyday life across centuries.
Designed as an immersive experience, the museum blends architecture, technology, and storytelling to make history tangible. Visitors can explore at their own pace, discovering both monumental artefacts and small personal items that connect the past to the present.
The museum is accessible to all. It features stair-free paths, elevators, signage, and sign-language tours. Entry tickets are Dh 70 for adults, while children under 18, seniors above 60, and people with disabilities enter for free. Students and teachers from UAE universities can get tickets at Dh 35. Visitors are asked to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, in respect of the cultural setting.
For many, the Zayed National Museum is more than a building with artefacts. It is a living tribute to Sheikh Zayed and a bridge to the UAE’s heritage. By combining personal stories, historical treasures, and the voice of Baba Zayed, the museum offers visitors a profound, emotional, and memorable connection to the nation’s past—making history not only visible but truly felt.
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