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Beyond the Museum

Museums often evoke mixed feelings among travelers. While some may be eager to explore the rich history and culture they offer, others might feel that they’re better off skipping a museum visit in favor of more "exciting" activities.

Museums are more than just history, art, and culture. In fact, in the UAE, some museums go far beyond traditional expectations, offering immersive experiences that engage the senses, challenge perceptions, and even shape the future.

Here are 5 must-visit museums to recommend to your guests while they’re in the UAE, each one offering something uniquely extraordinary:

Louvre Abu Dhabi – A Bridge Between East and West

The museum’s origins trace back to 2007 with partnership between the UAE and France, combining the UAE’s vision for cultural progress with France’s expertise in art and museums. Located in Saadiyat Island this museum is showcasing the dynamic, multicultural heritage of the Arab world.

The museum emphasizes universal themes of human creativity. Its approach is not focused on individual civilizations or time periods, but on what connects humanity across geography and history.
But more than that, the museum’s stunning architecture – with its floating dome and intricate design – creates an immersive atmosphere that makes you feel like you're walking through time itself. It’s an experience that redefines what a museum can be. Here you can enjoy a private drawing class, kayaking around the museum or private electric catamaran.

Museum of the Future – Shaping Tomorrow

Opened in 2022, this groundbreaking institution is dedicated to exploring the future of technology, science, and humanity. If you’re looking for a museum that challenges the very concept of what a museum should be, this is the one.

From virtual reality exhibits to displays on artificial intelligence, space exploration, and sustainability, this museum isn't about the past – it's all about what's to come. Its futuristic architecture alone, with its eye-catching torus-shaped design, is a work of art in itself. Their goal is to inspire and empower people to positively shape humanity’s next chapter.
Its design is symbolic: the circular building represents humanity, the green mound it rests upon symbolizes the earth, and the void above signifies the unknown future. This museum goes beyond showcasing the past, present, and future; it focuses on developing and working on various themes that shape the future.

Etihad Museum – A Modern History

The Etihad Museum offers an engaging, interactive journey into the formation of the UAE, but it’s not your average history museum. It’s not just about dates and facts – it's about understanding the spirit of unity and the vision of the leaders who created the UAE. The museum itself, with its sleek and contemporary design, is as much a symbol of the country's progress as the exhibits inside.

Etihad Museum is focused on inspiring its visitors with the story of the founding of the UAE. Through a unique visitor journey, the various pavilions house experience-driven exhibitions, interactive programmes and education initiatives that explore the chronology of events that culminated in the unification of the Emirates in 1971.

Sharjah Art Museum – A Contemporary Showcase

Art museums are often thought of as quiet spaces filled with old masterpieces. But the Sharjah Art Museum shatters that image, offering a dynamic and forward-thinking experience. Known for its extensive collection of contemporary and modern art from both Arab and international artists, the museum offers a diverse and thought-provoking environment. Whether it’s through sculpture, photography, or digital art, it invites visitors to engage with the present – and even ponder the future of creative expression.

With the opening of this stunning museum, you can now explore one of the largest art collections in the Gulf region, featuring permanent exhibits and works by renowned artists.

Dubai Museum – A Glimpse Into the Past

Even that this venue is temporary closed for renovations. Al Fahidi Fort, home to the Dubai Museum, is the oldest surviving structure in the city and offers a glimpse into old Dubai. Built in 1787, this historic fort in Bur Dubai served as the ruler's residence, a military stronghold, an arms depot, and even a prison. It was later renovated during the reign of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. While many museums in the UAE are about the future, Dubai Museum provides an eye-opening look at the past.