culture

Abu Dhabi's Saadiyat Island Museums Unveil New Collections and Exhibitions

Recent museum openings and current exhibitions on Saadiyat Island offer visitors access to permanent collections and temporary displays supported by local development plans.

By Abu Dhabi Culture Desk · Published 19 July 2026

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Abu Dhabi's Saadiyat Island Museums Unveil New Collections and Exhibitions — Photo: Luca - 'Bluesky' / https://www.flickr.com/photos/77109529@N00/1785667510 (CC-BY)

The Zayed National Museum opened in December 2025 on Saadiyat Island with six permanent galleries that include a 1,000-year-old Qur'an and the world's oldest natural pearl. The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi opened on the same island two weeks earlier. These additions sit alongside the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and teamLab Phenomena as part of the emirate's cultural district.

Zayed National Museum

The Zayed National Museum on Saadiyat Island provides six permanent galleries that display historical artefacts including the 1,000-year-old Qur'an and the world's oldest natural pearl. Visitors can explore these collections as part of the ongoing expansion of cultural sites in the area.

Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi

The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi opened on Saadiyat Island shortly before the Zayed National Museum. It forms one of several institutions that together create a concentrated cultural district on the island, allowing visitors to move between multiple venues in a single trip.

Louvre Abu Dhabi Exhibitions

Louvre Abu Dhabi is presenting the exhibition Furusiyya: The Art of Chivalry between East and West from July 1 through October 18. The show Picasso, The Figure remains on view in its final weeks. These displays give visitors access to themed works that connect historical and modern art practices.

Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Future Plans

The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, designed by Frank Gehry, is scheduled to open later in 2026. A pledged $6 billion investment in cultural and creative industries supports two additional new museums under construction on Saadiyat Island. Visitors planning trips can check official museum websites for current opening hours and ticket information as these projects progress.