Free Entry to 8 UAE Museums and Cultural Sites from May 16-18 for International Museum Day
Dubai: History enthusiasts can take advantage of free access to some of the UAE’s most prominent museums from May 16 to 18, coinciding with International Museum Day on May 18. This initiative allows visitors to explore the rich cultural heritage of the UAE and beyond, featuring artefacts ranging from dinosaur fossils to 300,000-year-old tools.
This year, eight major museums and cultural sites in Abu Dhabi and Dubai will participate, offering free entry, discounted tickets, and special programming.
Understanding International Museum Day
International Museum Day, observed globally on May 18, aims to emphasize the vital role museums play in fostering cultural exchange and promoting peace among communities. The theme for this year is “Museums uniting a divided world,” providing an opportunity for the public to engage with history and culture.
1. Louvre Abu Dhabi
Dates: May 16 to 18
Louvre Abu Dhabi, an architectural marvel designed by Jean Nouvel, typically charges Dh70 for adult entry. During the event, visitors can explore 23 permanent galleries and enjoy free guided tours. Additional offerings include access to a Picasso exhibition, live conservation demonstrations, and screenings of “The Pulse of Time,” a film highlighting the museum’s masterpieces.
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 8 PM
Location: Saadiyat Cultural District, accessible via the E12 highway. A free shuttle service from Dubai is also available.
2. Qasr Al Hosn
Dates: May 17 to 18
Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi’s oldest structure, dates back to 1790 and serves as a National Archive Centre. Visitors can explore historical artefacts and archival records that illustrate the UAE’s evolution.
Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 9 AM to 7 PM
Location: Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, accessible from Corniche Street.
3. Zayed National Museum
The Zayed National Museum, located in the Saadiyat Cultural District, honors the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and chronicles 300,000 years of UAE history. Visitors can engage with six permanent galleries and participate in Emirati cultural programs.
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 8 PM
Location: Adjacent to Louvre Abu Dhabi, accessible via the E12 highway.
4. Al Ain Museum
Established in 1969, Al Ain Museum is the UAE’s first purpose-built museum and houses significant archaeological collections. For International Museum Day, the museum will offer educational workshops and interactive activities.
Opening Hours: Daily, 9 AM to 7 PM
Location: Near Al Jahili Fort and Al Ain Oasis, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
5. Delma Museum
Situated on Delma Island, about 30 kilometers from Abu Dhabi, Delma Museum showcases the UAE’s pearling history. Visitors can view historical pearling equipment and archaeological finds.
Opening Hours: Friday to Sunday, 2 PM to 10 PM
Location: Accessible via a ferry from Al Dhanna marine station in Abu Dhabi.
6. Al Maqta’a Museum
Housed within Al Maqta’a Fort, this museum features exhibits on the history of Abu Dhabi, including vintage police cars and uniforms. The fort was originally built in the 1950s as a Customs House.
Opening Hours: Saturday to Thursday, 9 AM to 5 PM; Friday, 2 PM to 8 PM
Location: Between the E10 and E22 highways, near Al Maqta’a and Sheikh Zayed bridges.
7. Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi
As one of Abu Dhabi’s newest attractions, the Natural History Museum offers an immersive experience through 13.8 billion years of history, featuring dinosaur skeletons and interactive exhibits.
Opening Hours: Friday to Sunday, 10 AM to 8:30 PM
Location: In the Saadiyat Cultural District, accessible via the E12 highway.
8. Expo City Dubai and Terra – The Sustainability Pavilion
From May 16 to 18, Expo City Dubai will provide free entry to its museum, which showcases the legacy of the World Expo. The Vision Pavilion, celebrating the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, will also be open for free.
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday, 8 AM to 5 PM; Friday, 8 AM to 12:30 PM
Location: Accessible via the E311 highway or Dubai Metro to the Expo 2020 station.
For further details, visit the source: www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-05-13 15:46:00 • By the Editorial Desk
