Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi Opens Under the Patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan — A New Cultural Universe Begins
- Ahmed Ayamn
- 6 hours ago
- 3 min read
In a defining moment for culture, science, and global heritage, His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, inaugurated the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi — the Middle East’s largest and most ambitious natural history institution to date.
Located in Saadiyat Cultural District, the museum officially opens its doors to the public on 22 November 2025, welcoming visitors into a breathtaking journey across 13.8 billion years of cosmic evolution, the story of life on Earth, and the natural heritage of the Arabian Peninsula.
This world-class institution stands not only as a museum, but as a global engine for research, scientific discovery, sustainability education, and cultural dialogue.
🌌 A Journey Through Time: 13.8 billion Years of Creation, Evolution & Wonder
Designed by renowned architects Mecanoo, the 35,000 sqm museum blends science and spectacle, taking visitors on an immersive journey from the birth of the universe to the future of our planet.
Visitors step into the main atrium to witness a world-first:
A full sauropod herd — five massive long-necked dinosaurs displayed together for the first time in history.
These ancient giants stand in dynamic formation, recreating a moment from deep time.
Further inside, another extraordinary scene awaits:
Two Tyrannosaurus rexes locked in battle over a Triceratops carcass
— including the world-famous 67-million-year-old STAN, considered one of the most scientifically important T. rex skeletons ever discovered.
Every fossil is presented with forensic detail: bite marks, movement analysis, paleoart reconstructions, climate data — transforming prehistoric life into a vivid, cinematic narrative.
🐪 Natural History Through an Arabian Lens
For the first time worldwide, a major natural history museum dedicates an entire curatorial structure to:
The natural heritage of Arabia and the UAE.
Visitors travel back 7 million years, when the Emirates were a green savannah home to unique, now-extinct species — including a four-tusked elephant, ancient horses, massive tortoises, and predators that roamed an ecosystem completely different from today.
This regional focus transforms the museum into a new cultural milestone: a bridge between global natural history and the identity of the Emirates.
A Research Powerhouse for the Region
Beyond its galleries, the institution is built as a scientific engine, featuring:
Cutting-edge palaeontology labs
Earth sciences research centers
Biodiversity research facilities
A robust education and outreach ecosystem
Community-science programmes
Youth development initiatives designed to inspire the next generation of scientists
The museum will participate in international research collaborations and publish new scientific work, adding Abu Dhabi to the global map of natural science innovation.
Guided by a Vision of Cultural and Scientific Leadership
H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, emphasized the museum’s transformative mission:
“Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi is a place where knowledge meets wonder. Understanding our planet’s past helps us protect its future, and that is the foundation of what we have built here.”
He highlighted the museum’s role in shaping a future where science, culture, and sustainability meet, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s global cultural presence.
Sustainability, Climate Awareness & Youth Education
The museum's core mission includes:
Environmental education
Climate awareness initiatives
Biodiversity research
Programs to inspire children and youth
Exhibits that highlight Earth’s fragile ecosystems
Opportunities for students to engage directly with scientists
By connecting past and present, the museum encourages visitors to take part in shaping a more sustainable future.
A New Cultural Landmark in Saadiyat Cultural District
The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi joins a world-class family of institutions including:
Louvre Abu Dhabi
teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi
Zayed National Museum (upcoming)
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi (upcoming)
Together, these institutions position Saadiyat Island as a global destination for culture, creativity and cross-disciplinary innovation.
🎟 Ticket Prices & Opening Hours
The museum welcomes visitors from:
10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (weekdays)
10:00 AM – 8:30 PM (weekends)
Tickets:
AED 70 – Adults
AED 45.5 – Fazaa & Esaad
AED 32.5 – UAE university students, teachers & military
Free – Under 18, People of Determination & companion, UAE seniors 60+, ICOM, ICOMOS, journalists on assignment
Tickets available at: nhmad.ae