Louvre Abu Dhabi

About The Experience

After nearly a decade-long delay, the highly anticipated Louvre Abu Dhabi Universal Museum is in its final stages of completion, poised to elevate not just Abu Dhabi but the entire UAE to a prominent position among the world’s leading cultural nations.

As the first universal museum in the Arabian Peninsula, Louvre Abu Dhabi is the result of a collaborative effort between the governments of Abu Dhabi and France, and its legendary name speaks volumes. However, contrary to its name, the museum does not aim to replicate the model or content of the Louvre Museum in Paris. Instead, it seeks to establish a rational route of discovery, openness, and unity. This unique approach provides an ideal platform for education and the exchange of ideas and cultures, inviting visitors to explore diverse civilizations and world history through extensive exhibits, compare and delve into them in-depth, and contemplate their genuine values.

With a budget of $650 million, the museum features permanent installations spanning over 65,000 square feet, mainly supported by loans from renowned museums like Musée du Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Centre Pompidou. Organized chronologically, the exhibits guide visitors through four distinct periods, from archaeology and the birth of Islam to the classical age and the modern era. In addition to a dedicated section for children, there is approximately 20,000 square feet of space for temporary exhibitions.

Louvre Abu Dhabi Universal Museum is a breathtaking spectacle on water, comprising a series of stunning white structures that reflect the essence of an Arabian city. It is a crucial component of the flourishing Saadiyat Cultural District, set to host other museums such as the Zayed National Museum and the Guggenheim Museum. The award-winning French architect, Jean Nouvel, drew inspiration from the region’s ancient construction techniques, such as the traditional Falaj water system and interwoven palm leaves used for roofing.

The museum’s core feature is its intricate and multi-layered geometric lace dome, adorned with thousands of star-like cladding patterns. This structure provides elegant perforations, creating a stunning interplay of sunlight and shade. In every aspect – concept, offerings, and aesthetic appearance – Louvre Abu Dhabi Universal Museum stands out as a striking and unique cultural landmark.

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