This UAE National Day 2025 – also called Eid al Etihad – one of the most highly anticipated cultural attractions in Abu Dhabi is opening its doors. Set to become a key landmark in the Emirate, this place is opening at Saadiyat Cultural District. You can expect a lot of learning, fun, tempting exhibitions, delicious quick bites and serene beauty all around. Let’s take a tour of the upcoming Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi.
This institution on Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi is going to celebrate the legacy of the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan. You can go around a number of exhibitions and make the best use of educational programmes to get a better idea about the Emirati heritage.
Zayed National Museum at Saadiyat Cultural District is going to become a key tourist attraction in Abu Dhabi. People from across the UAE can make quick trips to the landmark, including from Dubai and Sharjah. From history to modernity, this place celebrates the UAE culture and tradition in the best possible manner.
Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi is opening alongside existing cultural attractions on Saadiyat Island, such as Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Abrahamic Family House and teamLab Phenomena, besides upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi.
1. When is Zayed National Museum opening?
One of the best cultural attractions in Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum is finally opening its doors on December 3 (the final day of UAE National Day 2025 holiday). You can embark on an immersive journey from ancient times to the present day.
Designed by Pritzker Prize recipient Lord Norman Foster of Foster + Partners, the upcoming Zayed National Museum on Saadiyat Island is no less than an architectural masterpiece. You can also find thousands of treasures in the collection, each carefully chosen for the story is tells about the history of the land.
The official dates for Eid al Etihad 2025 are December 2 and 3, 2025. It is one of the most significant UAE public holidays and could let you take a longer holiday if December 1 (Monday) also turns into a public holiday – leading to 5 days off! This means, you get ample time to explore different cultural highlights of Abu Dhabi, including Zayed National Museum.
2. What are the top things to do at Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi?
The list can go on and on. But let’s highlight some of the key things to expect at Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi. More than just a museum, this place is a tribute to the UAE’s cultural scene. For tourists in Abu Dhabi, this needs to be on their bucket list at all costs.
Expect a rich journey through generations across six permanent galleries of Zayed National Museum in Saadiyat Cultural District, in addition to a rotating temporary exhibition space. Explore rare artefacts, plenty of national treasures and global loans – all uniquely connected to better express the UAE’s cultural landscape.
To be counted among the best museums in UAE, the Zayed National Museum collection is going to feature more than 3,000 pieces. Half of it shall be on display. Don’t miss the Abu Dhabi Pearl, one of the oldest natural pearls at around 8,000 years old. Let me highlight the six permanent indoor galleries at the museum first. You are in for a lot of intriguing stuff.
a. Our Beginning
The first of the six indoor galleries at Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi, Our Beginning is meant to shed light on the life and legacy of the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan, through an appealing form of storytelling.
b. Through Our Nature
The Through Our Nature gallery at the museum is meant to help you explore the different landscapes existing across the UAE. Important for both residents and tourists, you get to understand the nature and rhythm of life in the Emirates. There are many tourists highly interested in deeply exploring a place’s landscapes. This is that one.
c. To Our Ancestors
Comprising 300,000 years of history, Zayed National Museum helps you examine the evolution of humans in this part of the planet through its To Our Ancestors gallery.
d. Through Our Connections
This one is highly intriguing. Step into Through Our Connections to understand the broadening horizons of the people of the ancient Emirates and the impact of modern technology and more.
e. By Our Coasts
You can find a number of beautiful beaches, beach clubs, beachfront hotels and resorts, and sea-facing restaurants in the UAE. The UAE’s coastal line is enchanting, to say the least. The By Our Coasts gallery focuses on the evolution of the main coastal settlements through pearling, fishing and trading. You are going to love this place.
f. To Our Roots
Back to the roots, all the time. To Our Roots is for those looking to explore in detail the UAE’s traditional lifestyle, customs, social and economic practices and more.
Besides the aforementioned permanent indoor galleries at Zayed National Museum, there is also Al Masar Garden – an outdoor gallery narrating the story of the Founding Father through the landscapes that inspired him. You can find a good collection of native plants spread across three zones, including desert, oasis and urban.
3. What are Zayed National Museum opening hours?
Monday to Sunday: 10 am to 8 pm
Last entry: 1 hour before closing of the musuem
4. Where to book Zayed National Museum tickets?
You can check the official platform of Zayed National Museum to book your tickets. Tickets can be bought from December 3, 2025, the official opening date of the musuem. You can book the tickets online prior to visiting.
Here is a tip. You can book tickets for the early opening hours of the musuem as there is likely to be a bit less rush than the later hours. Or, book the sunset time. There might be a lot of people during this period but the place looks quite more enchanting as the sun is just about to set. The outdoor Al Masar Garden definitely strikes a beautiful memory.
| Category | Ticket Prices (In Dirhams) |
| Adult | AED 70 |
| Under 18 | Free |
| Senior Emiratis and Residents | Free |
| People of Determination | Free |
| Journalist – on assignment | Free |
| Student – UAE universities | AED 35 |
| Teacher – UAE employed | AED 35 |
To book Zayed National Museum tickets: Click On This Link
5. What are the top restaurants in Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi?
a. Erth Restaurant Abu Dhabi
Erth Restaurant at Zayed National Museum is perfect for exploring the best in Emirati cuisine. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this restaurant is perfect for museum guests and those looking for a unique dining experience in the Emirate. No museum ticket is needed to dine at Erth Restaurant Abu Dhabi.
Opening Hours: 10.00 am to 10.00 pm
Settings: Indoor and Outdoor
b. Al Ghaf Cafe
Indulge in a quick and relaxed meal at Al Ghaf Cafe. You can find a great selection of light bites and refreshing drinks in a comfortable setting. No prior bookings are required. Open to all museum guests, Al Ghaf Cafe permits early access for school groups.
Opening Hours: 9.00 am to 8.00 pm
Settings: Indoor and Outdoor
c. Garden Cafes
Located inside a lush 600-metre garden, there are three Garden Cafes in Al Masar Garden of Zayed National Museum, specialising in light meals, snacks and refreshing drinks. No prior bookings are required.
Opening Hours: 10.00 am to 8.00 pm
Settings: Outdoor
6. What are the top facilities at Zayed National Museum in Saadiyat Cultural District?
For a comfortable experience of all guests, Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi has a number of facilities. You can find prayer rooms on the first floor, free parking, complimentary internet, cloakrooms near the entrance area, an ATM on the ground floor, and restroom facilities across the museum. This place also seeks to be as accessible as possible and, therefore, has been designed to accommodate the needs of all guests.
7. What are the top things to do at Saadiyat Cultural District Abu Dhabi?
Located at a comfortable distance from Abu Dhabi Airport, Saadiyat Cultural District is full of fun things to do for people of all ages and preferences. There are museums, educational institutions and cultural acts, among other things.
You can explore Manarat Al Saadiyat for exhibition, exchanging ideas and attending thoughtful discussions. This place encourages entrepreneurship. Next, check out the Abrahamic Family House – comprising a mosque, church and synagogue. You can find guides tours, too. Do not miss Louvre Abu Dhabi at any cost. One of the most beautiful museums in UAE, Louvre Abu Dhabi represents stories of human creativity from the beginning of recorded history until today. teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, on the other hand, is all about a beautiful combination of science, art and technology. The sensory-rich experience here is magnificent. There are more stunning attractions at Saadiyat Cultural District, in addition to a couple of upcoming landmarks – Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi.
Travel to Abu Dhabi this December for a memorable experience. You are not going to be disappointed, for sure.
8. How to reach Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi?
Zayed National Museum is a part of Saadiyat Cultural District Abu Dhabi. This place is easily accessible from different parts of the capital emirate and other cities, too. You can take a taxi or use ride-hailing platforms like Careem and Uber. If landing at Zayed International Airport, the musuem is at a 25-minute gap.
One of the top tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island is at a 20-minute gap from Abu Dhabi centre and 75-minute gap from Dubai. From Abu Dhabi bus station, you can take Public Bus Number 121. There is also the Experience Abu Dhabi Bus. The Abu Dhabi Link is for people to move around Saadiyat Island at ease.
9. What is the best Dubai to Zayed National Museum route?
Travel to Dubai this December for the grand opening of Zayed National Museum. There are regular Dubai to Abu Dhabi buses, such as E100 from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station and E101 from Ibn Battuta Bus Station. Depending on traffic conditions, the entire journey can be done in 1.5 hours. Or else, take a taxi or hail Careem.
Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi: FAQs
a. What is Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi famous for?
The soon-to-be-opened Zayed National Museum on Saadiyat Island is a tribute to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan’s life and legacy. It is counted among the best cultural attractions in Abu Dhabi, featuring six permanent indoor galleries and one outdoor gallery. You can find more than 3,000 pieces here, each carefully chosen to beautifully narrate the history of this land.
b. When is the official opening date of Zayed National Museum in Abu Dhabi?
Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi is officially opening its doors on December 3, 2025. This is the last date of the upcoming UAE National Day 2025 (or Eid al Etihad).
c. Where is Zayed National Museum located on Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi?
The upcoming Zayed National Museum is located at Saadiyat Cultural District. This section of Saadiyat Island is home to a number of top cultural attractions in Abu Dhabi, such as Louvre Abu Dhabi, teamLab Phenomena and the Abrahamic Family House.
d. What can visitors expect to see at Zayed National Museum exhibitions?
Zayed National Museum exhibitions are going to highlight the UAE’s history in the best possible manner. There is a rotating temporary exhibition space here. You can expect more details on the same in the coming days.
e. How much are Zayed National Museum tickets prices in Abu Dhabi?
| Category | Ticket Prices (Dirhams) |
| Adult | AED 70 |
| Under 18 | Free |
| People of Determination | Free |
| Senior Emiratis and Residents | Free |
| Journalist – on assignment | Free |
| Student – UAE universities | AED 35 |
| Teacher – UAE employed | AED 35 |
f. Is there free entry to Zayed National Museum for UAE residents or students?
Zayed National Museum free entry is accessible to guests under 18 years old, senior Emiratis and Residents, People of Determination and Journalist – on assignment. But you are required to present relevant IDs to avail the benefit.
For More Details: Click Here
g. What are Zayed National Museum opening hours and ideal duration?
Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi is open on all days from 10 am to 8 pm. The last entry is 1 hour before closing. You should keep at least 1 hour to explore the musuem.
h. How to reach Zayed National Museum by public transport, bus or taxi in Abu Dhabi?
To reach Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi, you can take a taxi or use ride-hailing platforms like Careem and Uber to Saadiyat Island. Else, take a bus from the Abu Dhabi bus station. If coming from Dubai, you can use one of the many regular Dubai to Abu Dhabi buses.
i. What is the architectural design and inspiration behind Zayed National Museum?
Designed by legendary architect Lord Norman Foster, Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi has five soaring steel structures shaped like a falcon’s wings. It is one of the best cultural attractions in Abu Dhabi and needs to be part of your UAE itinerary at all costs.
j. Who designed Zayed National Museum?
Zayed National Museum on Saadiyat Island has been designed by Pritzker Prize recipient Lord Norman Foster of Foster + Partners.
k. What are the top attractions and galleries inside Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi?
Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi has six permanent indoor galleries, namely Our Beginning, Through Our Nature, To Our Ancestors, Through Our Connections, By Our Coasts and To Our Roots. You can also find Al Masar Garden, an outdoor gallery featuring native plants in three zones: desert, oasis and urban.
l. Is photography permitted inside Zayed National Museum exhibitions?
No detail has been released. You can expect more information in the coming days.
m. Are there guided tours at Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi?
No detail has been released. You can expect more information in the coming days.
n. Does Zayed National Museum have a cafe, restaurant or gift shop?
Zayed National Museum has three dining options, including authentic Emirati cuisine at Erth Restaurant, light meals at Al Ghaf Cafe and quick refreshments at three Garden Cafes located in Al Masar Garden. On the other hand, Al Nagwa Boutique is a meticulously designed gift shop at the museum. Each piece here is a meaningful keepsake. It is open from 10 am to 8 pm.
o. What is the best time to visit Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi?
It is generally recommended to visit Zayed National Museum Abu Dhabi as soon as the place opens to skip a bit of rush expected during the later hours. You can also choose the sunset time to click beautiful pictures against stunning backdrops.
p. Is Zayed National Museum suitable for families and children?
Zayed National Museum is suitable for people of all ages and preferences.
q. What other museums and attractions are near Zayed National Museum Saadiyat Island?
Besides Zayed National Museum, Saadiyat Cultural District is also home to a number of other key cultural attractions in Abu Dhabi, such as Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Abrahamic Family House, teamLab Phenomena, Bassam Freiha Art Foundation and more.
s. Can I book Zayed National Museum tickets online prior to visiting?
It is possible to book Zayed National Museum tickets online prior to visiting.
You must make Zayed National Museum a part of your UAE itinerary. Because, there is no better place to start exploring a country than from its cultural and historical landmarks, right?
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