The Arab world's first universal museum, the Louvre Abu Dhabi showcases art and historical artefacts from around the globe beneath a majestic dome of light, designed by Jean Nouvel.
Opened in November 2017 on Saadiyat Island, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is the first universal museum in the Arab world. It brings together works from all eras and all regions of the world, displayed side by side to make civilisations dialogue rather than separate them.
Designed by the architect Jean Nouvel, the museum is topped by an immense dome about 180 metres in diameter. It filters the sun through thousands of openings and lets a "rain of light" fall on the galleries that changes over the hours. Even before entering the halls, the walk around the buildings, surrounded by water, is a special moment.
Allow two to three hours to see the permanent collection without rushing, a little more if a temporary exhibition interests you. Weekday mornings are generally the calmest. In summer, it is also an excellent option to escape the heat: the galleries are air-conditioned.
The museum is about 1.5 hours by road from Dubai. Many visitors combine it with the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Corniche to make a full day. Our French-speaking Abu Dhabi tour includes a photo stop in front of the museum, but not the entry inside, which requires a ticket.
Do we need to book in advance?
We advise booking a few days ahead, especially in high season (November to March) and during school holidays. Booking must be made at least 24 hours in advance.
Can we visit with young children?
Yes, children enter free of charge. With younger ones, favour a shorter visit of the permanent collection, in mid-morning, when the museum is still calm.
Is it the same museum as the one in Paris?
No. The Louvre Abu Dhabi is a separate museum, created under an agreement between the Emirates and France. It has its own permanent collection and also hosts loans from French museums.