teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi🏛 museum
Designed by MZ Architects, this immersive experiential museum explores light and sound in Abu Dhabi.
🌐 teamlababudhabi.com🕒 Su-Fr 10:00-19:00; Sa 10:00-20:00
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Louvre Abu Dhabi
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Landmark
The Louvre Abu Dhabi is a groundbreaking art and civilization museum located on Saadiyat Island, representing a historic cultural collaboration between the United Arab Emirates and France. Opened in November 2017, the museum was designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel as a 'museum city' in the sea. Its most iconic feature is a massive silver dome, weighing 7,500 tons and measuring 180 meters in diameter, which is composed of 7,850 unique metal stars. These stars create a mesmerising 'rain of light' effect inside the museum, inspired by the overlapping palm fronds in traditional Emirati oases. The museum's collection spans the entire history of humanity, with galleries arranged chronologically to highlight shared themes and connections across different civilizations. It houses over 600 significant works of art, including permanent pieces and rotating loans from prestigious French institutions like the Louvre in Paris and the Musée d'Orsay. The Louvre Abu Dhabi is the first universal museum in the Arab world, dedicated to fostering dialogue and understanding through the power of art. It has quickly become a global cultural destination.
- Location: United Arab Emirates
- Top sights: teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi · Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi · Soul Beach
- Nearby: Saadiyat Island (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 20 | 21 | 23 | 27 | 31 | 33 | 35 | 35 | 34 | 31 | 27 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 12 | 5 | 13 | 6 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 5 | 1 | 6 | 9 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Louvre Abu Dhabi is a spectacular art museum on Saadiyat Island, housed beneath a mesmerizing metal dome. Entry is ticketed; tickets can be bought online or on-site.
Typical hours
The museum is typically open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM, closed Mondays. On Fridays it opens later and closes at 10:00 PM; hours may vary seasonally.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the museum without flash. In special exhibitions, photography may be restricted; watch for signs.
Time needed
Allow at least two to three hours for the permanent collection and current exhibitions. For art enthusiasts, a full day may be worthwhile.
Combine with
The museum is on Saadiyat Island, which also hosts the future Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Manarat Al Saadiyat art center. The island's beaches are also worth a visit.
Getting there
The museum is reachable by car via the Saadiyat Bridge; paid parking is available. Alternatively, a shuttle bus runs from Yas Mall to the museum.
Insider tip
Purchase your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues. Visit the dome exhibition at sunset when light filters through the perforated dome.
Geography
Facts
- Opened in 2017 as the first universal museum in the Arab world.
- The dome's 'rain of light' is created by 7,850 geometric stars.
- The project is part of a 30-year agreement with the French government.
- The museum complex covers an area of approximately 24.000 m².
- It features 23 permanent galleries and space for temporary exhibits.
- The dome is 180 meters wide and stands 40 meters above sea level.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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Sights in the town Louvre Abu Dhabi (6)
Soul Beach🎡 recreation
This coastal beach resort provides visitors with white sands and waterfront leisure in Abu Dhabi.
🌐 visitabudhabi.ae🕒 Fr-We 06:00-19:00; Th 07:00-19:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the museum?
On Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi.
Is there a family ticket?
Yes, there are various features for families.
When is the museum closed?
Usually closed on Mondays.
Can I sketch inside?
Yes, with a pencil it is allowed.
Is there an app?
Yes, an interactive guide app is available.
Louvre Abu Dhabi: where is it located?
Louvre Abu Dhabi is located in United Arab Emirates.
Louvre Abu Dhabi: what is there to see?
Highlights include teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, Soul Beach.
Louvre Abu Dhabi: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Louvre Abu Dhabi: why is it worth visiting?
The Louvre Abu Dhabi is a groundbreaking art and civilization museum located on Saadiyat Island, representing a historic cultural collaboration between the United Arab Emirates and France.
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Nearby cities
Abu Dhabi
The wealthy capital of the UAE combines modern skyscrapers with traditional palaces.
Al Ain
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Madinat Zayed
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Ruwais
A modern planned city functioning as a driving force for the petrochemical industry in the west.
Liwa
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Sweihan
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Gantout
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Al Mirfa
A tranquil coastal town in Abu Dhabi, known for its rich fishing heritage and the annual water sports festival.
Al Mirfa
A hidden gem by the sea, whose long sandy beaches offer perfect conditions for water sports enthusiasts.
Ghayathi
This inland city is distinguished by bold desert greening initiatives.
History & landmarks
Qasr Al Hosn
The oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi was once a watchtower fort and is today a profound historical museum.
Emirates Palace
The luxurious palace hotel on the coast captivates with its gilded domes and extensive lush green gardens.
Qasr Al Watan
This magnificent presidential palace opens its doors to the public, showcasing the rich Arabian heritage.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
This magnificent masterpiece of Islamic architecture in white marble impresses with massive domes and intricate details.
Ferrari World
The world's first Ferrari theme park offers high-speed thrills under a gigantic red roof on Yas Island.
Al Jahili Fort
This historic mud-brick fort in the oasis city of Al Ain is one of the largest and most significant buildings in the region.
Nature
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Umm Al Emarat Park
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Mangrove National Park
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Umm an-Nar Archaeological Site
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The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
The largest aquarium in the Middle East, focused on education and the rescue of injured marine animals.
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Al Wathba Wetland Reserve
An artificially created wetland that has developed into an important refuge for migratory birds and diverse flora.