Celebrating International Museum Day in the UAE
On May 18, the world comes together to celebrate International Museum Day, a special occasion that highlights the importance of museums in our societies. This year, museums across the UAE are stepping up the festivities by offering complimentary access, inviting everyone to explore the rich cultural heritage and history housed within their walls. Coordinated by the International Council of Museums, this global event began in 1977, and today, it sees participation from thousands of museums across over 140 countries.
Free Entry to Iconic Museums
Many renowned museums in the UAE are offering free entry on this special day. Let’s take a closer look at some of the highlights:
Louvre Abu Dhabi
One of the foremost attractions, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, offers an extensive collection that transcends cultures and epochs, encouraging visitors to explore our shared global heritage. To take advantage of the complimentary access, UAE residents must present a valid Emirates ID. The museum’s recent exhibition, “Kings and Queens of Africa: Forms and Figures of Power,” delves into African heritage, exploring its traditions and mythologies. On International Museum Day, the galleries will remain open until 8:30 PM, allowing ample time for visitors to absorb the art and have dinner at the on-site restaurants, which will stay open until midnight.
Expo 2020 Dubai Museum
Located in Expo City Dubai, the Expo 2020 Museum is another must-visit. It will welcome guests free of charge on May 17 and 18, alongside its iconic Garden in the Sky observation tower. Visitors can learn about the UAE’s first participation in a World Expo back in the 1970s and how Dubai ultimately won its bid for the 2020 Expo, with exhibits narrating the journey and experiences of this monumental event. Guided tours will be available every 30 minutes, offering unique insights into the exhibitions. Additionally, visitors can explore reduced ticket prices for other pavilions, giving them the chance to enjoy a broader experience for a fraction of the cost.
Al Maqta Museum and Delma Museum
Newly inaugurated, the Al Maqta Museum officially opened its doors just a few weeks ago, on May 2. This Sunday, it will allow visitors to explore its cultural offerings for free between 5 PM and 6:30 PM. The museum is designed to be part of a broader cultural landscape, including landmarks like Al Maqta Tower and Al Maqta Bridge. Meanwhile, the Delma Museum, located on Delma Island, will also be open for free from 5 PM to 7 PM, showcasing archaeological artefacts spanning over 7,000 years—an exciting opportunity for anyone fascinated by history.
Sharjah Museums
The Sharjah Museums Authority oversees a diverse range of institutions that will also participate in the free entry initiative. Here, visitors can discover everything from maritime traditions to Islamic art and archaeology. Museums included in this free offer are the Sharjah Maritime Museum, Sharjah Archaeology Museum, and Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, among others. On May 17, there will also be a focus group session titled “Innovation in Action: Technology’s Role in Shaping Museum Experiences,” at the Dome Hall of the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, encouraging discussions around the future of museums in a digitized world.
Experience Cultural Richness
Each of these museums offers a unique lens into different facets of history and culture, reflecting not just the UAE’s heritage but also its position as a melting pot of global influences. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, International Museum Day provides a captivating opportunity to engage with your surroundings, appreciate the artistry, and deepen your understanding of the diverse histories that shape our world.
Mark your calendars for May 18, and don’t miss the chance to be part of this worldwide celebration of knowledge, history, and culture.
