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Apart from the luxurious hotels and sites, Abu Dhabi is home to museums and galleries, which celebrates the region’s history and iconic art. There are modern museums in Abu Dhabi, as well as galleries located in a wonderful neighborhood. Visit the various museums and galleries in Abu Dhabi to learn about history, culture, and unique art. It is not only educational but entertaining.

Museums in Abu Dhabi
Instead of visiting the library to learn about the historical events that happened in the region, you can visit the museums in Abu Dhabi to find out. Remember to choose the best hotel in Abu Dhabi for your stay.

Below are some of the finest museums:

ZAYED HERITAGE CENTER
If you want to learn about UAE’s history, the Zayed Heritage Center, which is a cultural destination, has all the answers. This museum is dedicated to His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahya, who was the ruler of Abu Dhabi from 1996. The building holds his life’s work, religious beliefs, vision, and commitment to the nation. His was devoted to turning the Emirates into a global union. Sheikh Zayed changed the country from poverty-stricken to a flourishing nation. He was the one who secured the crude oil industries for the country.

The center does not only include the life of Sheikh Zayed, but it has camels to show how life was like. There are photos of international dignitaries and members of loyal families who visited the president during his reign. There are relics, his belongings, and favorite cars.

HERITAGE VILLAGE
This is one of the best museums in Abu Dhabi because it contains the city’s past and culture. You will learn how the city flourished from farming, fishing, and pearl diving to an economic hub. The center contains the replica of the old fishing village as well as a camp and a mosque to showcase the original setting of the UAE’s villages. You can buy souvenirs, spices, and traditional handicrafts from the souqs.

The Emirati Heritage Club is a recreation of the traditional village and has many sites to see. You can visit the workshop to watch the craftsmen various skills used by the traditional Emiratis. These include pottery, metalwork, and spinning. You can also try one of the skills as a craftsman guides you. The spice stall provides a wide range of fresh and dried herbs as well as handmade soaps.

QASR AL HOSN
This is known as ‘the birthplace of Abu Dhabi,’ and it was the first permanent building in the state. This was the home of the Al Nahyan family in the 1970s. Today, Qasr Al Hosn is one of the top museums in Abu Dhabi, and it hosts many cultural events throughout the year. The inside contains artifacts and hologram projections. You can also weave baskets and make other crafts, watch dances, and visit the stalls.

EMIRATES NATIONAL AUTO MUSEUM
If you love cars, then this is one of the museums in Abu Dhabi you have to visit. The building is full of vintage vehicles, convertibles, and custom made cars. This is not only one of the best museums around, but it’s among the leading automotive museums worldwide. You can see many American cars as well as Sheikh’s Mercedes rainbow collection. The most fascinating vehicle in this building is the world’s largest truck.

Galleries in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is not only known for its museums, but also for the unique art galleries, which tell of the people’s culture. Below are some of the best galleries in Abu Dhabi:

THE LOUVRE
If you want to visit one of the best galleries in Abu Dhabi, consider the Louvre, which is also the largest art gallery in the city. As an art-lover, you will be thrilled to view art from across the world as well as temporary exhibitions. There is also the permanent collection, which comprises of artifacts from the ancient Middle East, and North Africa cultures.

WAREHOUSE 421
This is a cultural space launched to encourage artistic talents, support the process to boost the UAE’s art community. It is also among the galleries in Abu Dhabi that serves multiple purposes such as culture, creativity, design, and music performance. There are local, regional, and international designers and artists. You can also view the work of emerging artists, and learn about the communities through their art.

SALWA ZEIDAN GALLERY
This is one of the most beautiful art galleries in Abu Dhabi with the work of both emerging and established artists. There are photographs, sculptures, and paintings. Apart from nurturing local talents, the gallery features the most prominent artwork from the region and around the world.

ETIHAD MODERN ART GALLERY
This art gallery promotes the work of emerging artists, exhibitions, art classes, and workshops. The gallery acts as a multipurpose space, which is a friendly and flexible art scene geared towards encouraging, discussing, and growing the Emirati art. You can also relax in the Art House Café inside the gallery. The café showcases the work of emerging artists and everything including, the furniture is made from recycled materials. The menu contains traditional Arabic coffee, fruit drinks, and organic foods. Sometimes you can find local musicians performing.

MANARAT AL SAADIYAT
If you are looking for an adventure while visiting the galleries in Abu Dhabi, consider Manarat Al Saadiyat. This gallery promotes the art scene in the Emirates through workshops, performances, exhibitions, and art studio spaces. It also hosts the annual Abu Dhabi Art Show, which includes 3 galleries for temporary exhibitions, outdoor events on the terrace, a photography studio, and a café. This is also a venue for comedy nights, sky gazing, yoga classes, theater workshops, and film screening.

QASR AL WATAN
Qasr Al Watan is more than a cultural and architectural landmark; it is a tribute to the Arabian culture. It showcases the artistry, heritage, and architectural designs of the region in across the halls. This is an excellent way to learn about the country’s traditions and values as well as the region’s legacy. You can also visit the Qasr Al Watan Library where you can learn more about the Emirates.

Abu Dhabi is one of the fastest growing cultural hubs in the Middle East; this is because of the number of museums and galleries. Each building has a unique touch and features. There are modern and traditional museums and galleries owned privately or publicly. Instead of spending your time in luxurious hotels, get out and learn about the arts and culture.