Zayed National Museum
A landmark museum celebrating the UAE’s heritage, history, and the legacy of Sheikh Zayed.
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Zayed National Museum
The museum brings together archaeological discoveries, historical objects, manuscripts and stories that trace more than 300,000 years of human history in the UAE. Its galleries connect the country's heritage with the life and legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Highlights
- Explore more than 300,000 years of human history in the UAE.
- Visit six permanent galleries and a temporary exhibition gallery.
- See more than 1,500 objects from the museum's wider collection.
- Discover archaeological finds, manuscripts and objects linked to the UAE's history and culture.
- See collection highlights including an 8,000-year-old natural pearl and a rare Abbasid bronze lamp.
- Learn about Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his role in the formation of the UAE.
- Experience a building inspired by the form and movement of a falcon in flight.
- Visit Al Masar Garden, the museum's outdoor gallery space.
About Zayed National Museum
Zayed National Museum is the national museum of the United Arab Emirates, located in the Saadiyat Cultural District in Abu Dhabi. The museum explores more than 300,000 years of human history in the land that became the UAE, connecting archaeological discoveries and historical objects with the traditions, communities and values that have shaped the country.
The museum's collection includes more than 3,000 artefacts held in trust, with more than 1,500 objects displayed across its galleries. Visitors can see archaeological finds, manuscripts and other objects that reveal ancient trade, human innovation and changing ways of life across the region. Highlights include an 8,000-year-old natural pearl, a rare Abbasid bronze lamp and other significant archaeological objects.
Six permanent galleries tell different parts of the UAE's story, while a temporary exhibition gallery and Al Masar Garden extend the museum experience beyond the permanent displays. The museum also explores the life and legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE. Its architecture was designed by Foster + Partners, with five towers inspired by traditional barjeel wind towers and the wing of a falcon in flight.
What's Included
✓ Admission to Zayed National Museum
✓ Access to the permanent galleries
✓ Access to exhibitions available during the visit
✓ Access to Al Masar Garden
Location
Zayed National Museum, Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Opening Hours
| Day | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Everyday | 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. |
Important Information
Know Before You Go
- Allow enough time to visit the permanent galleries, temporary exhibitions and outdoor areas.
- Last entry is one hour before the museum closes.
- Free parking is available onsite.
- Public programmes and guided experiences may require separate booking and an entry ticket.
- Modest clothing appropriate to UAE culture is recommended.
Age Policy
- Children under 18 years old receive complimentary admission.
- Some programmes and activities may have their own age or participation requirements.
Restrictions & Activity Requirements
- Visitors must follow the museum's visitor rules and instructions during their visit.
- Some tours, events and special programmes require advance booking.
- Entry is required to participate in programmes held within the museum.
Accessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible routes and lifts
✓ Tactile stations and accessible interpretive materials
✓ Calm room and sensory-support resources
✓ Sensory maps, sensory kits and visual story guides
✓ Accessibility support for visitors with different physical, visual, hearing and neurodevelopmental needs
✓ People of Determination and accompanying guests can access complimentary admission
Ticket, Entry & Redemption
- Present your valid admission ticket at the museum entrance.
- Children under 18 can enter with complimentary admission.
- Some tours, events and special programmes require separate booking.
- Check the requirements of any separately booked programme before visiting.
- Follow the museum's visitor instructions during your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zayed National Museum?
Zayed National Museum is the national museum of the United Arab Emirates. It presents the country's history, culture and heritage while exploring the life and legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
How much history does Zayed National Museum cover?
The museum explores more than 300,000 years of human history in the land that became the United Arab Emirates.
How many galleries are at Zayed National Museum?
The museum has six permanent galleries, along with a temporary exhibition gallery and Al Masar Garden as an outdoor gallery space.
What can I see in the museum's collection?
The collection includes archaeological finds, manuscripts and other historical objects. More than 1,500 objects are displayed from a wider collection of more than 3,000 artefacts held in trust.
What are some highlights of the collection?
Collection highlights include an 8,000-year-old natural pearl, a rare Abbasid bronze lamp and other archaeological and historical objects from the UAE and wider region.
Does the museum tell the story of Sheikh Zayed?
Yes. The museum explores the life, values and legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his role in the formation of the United Arab Emirates.
Where is Zayed National Museum located?
Zayed National Museum is located in the Saadiyat Cultural District on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi.
What are the opening hours of Zayed National Museum?
The museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Last entry is one hour before closing.
Are children allowed to visit Zayed National Museum?
Yes. Children are welcome, and visitors under 18 years old receive complimentary admission.
Is Zayed National Museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The museum provides wheelchair-accessible routes and lifts, together with a range of accessibility services and resources for visitors with different needs.
Does Zayed National Museum have facilities for neurodivergent visitors?
Yes. Accessibility features include a calm room, sensory maps, sensory kits and visual story guides, with additional support available for visitors with sensory and neurodevelopmental needs.
Is parking available at Zayed National Museum?
Yes. Free parking is available onsite.
Are guided tours and events available?
Yes. The museum hosts tours, events and public programmes. Some experiences require separate booking and an entry ticket.
What is Al Masar Garden?
Al Masar Garden is the museum's outdoor gallery space, extending the museum experience beyond the indoor galleries.
What is special about the architecture of Zayed National Museum?
The building was designed by Foster + Partners, with five towers inspired by traditional barjeel wind towers and the form of a falcon in flight.