Zayed National Museum is the national museum of the United Arab Emirates, dedicated to the country’s heritage and cultural memory. It is located on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi.
The museum is designed as a modern space that tells the story of the region, the development of the state, and the significant role of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The building’s architecture, designed by Foster + Partners, is distinguished by five elegant towers shaped like falcon wings – a symbol of the UAE’s cultural heritage. The height of these towers ranges from approximately 83 to 123 meters, and their graceful form makes them a striking architectural feature on Saadiyat Island.
The museum houses a rich collection of artifacts and multimedia displays: ancient archaeological finds, rare manuscripts, traditional household items, unique pearls including the famous Abu Dhabi pearl, and an impressive reconstruction of a Bronze Age ship, the Magan Boat, located in the central atrium. The exhibitions introduce visitors to the region’s rich history, traditions, maritime trade, and the formation of the modern state.
The museum is surrounded by the thematic Al Masar Garden, which reflects the natural landscapes of the Emirates and creates an atmosphere of tranquility and cultural immersion.
Zayed National Museum is one of the key attractions of the Saadiyat Cultural District and a new symbol of the UAE’s national identity and progress.
For an extra charge, you can:
Dress code
Dress modestly, ensuring that shoulders and knees are covered. Comfortable footwear is recommended, as the visit involves considerable walking.
Experience duration
The average visit duration is approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on the number of visitors.
Child Policy
Where is the Zayed National Museum located?
Zayed National Museum is situated on Saadiyat Island, within the Saadiyat Cultural District in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Do I need to print the ticket?
Both printed and electronic confirmations are accepted.
Required Documents
A valid ticket (either printed or electronic) is required for entry.
Are guests permitted to bring outside food and beverages?
Visitors are not allowed to bring food and beverages.
You can secure your entry through the Things To Do UAE platform, where we offer a seamless booking process. Our system features end-to-end encryption and supports multiple payment methods like Apple Pay and PayPal. Once completed, you will receive an instant confirmation from Things To Do UAE via email and SMS to ensure your visit to Saadiyat Island is worry-free.
The Zayed National Museum price is designed to be accessible for families. Children under 18 years old enter free of charge, making it an ideal educational destination. For visitors aged 18 and above, the standard adult rate applies. Please ensure you have a valid ID or proof of age, as it may be requested at the entrance.
The Zayed National Museum location is within the prestigious Saadiyat Cultural District in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It sits alongside other global landmarks like the Louvre Abu Dhabi. If you are driving from Dubai or Al Ain, follow the signs for Saadiyat Island; ample parking and private transfer options are available for all visitors.
As a site dedicated to the national heritage and the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, guests are required to follow a respectful dress code. Please dress modestly, ensuring that shoulders and knees are covered. We also recommend bringing a light jacket, as the museum galleries are maintained at cool temperatures for the preservation of ancient artifacts.
The average visit duration is approximately 2 to 3 hours. To help you make the most of your day, Things To Do UAE suggests arriving early to explore both the internal galleries – featuring the Magan Boat and the Abu Dhabi pearl – and the external Al Masar Garden, which reflects the beautiful natural landscapes of the Emirates.
No printing is necessary when you book through our portal. Things To Do UAE provides digital tickets that are fully valid for entry. Simply present the electronic confirmation sent by Things To Do UAE on your mobile device, along with your passport or Emirates ID, to the staff at the Saadiyat Cultural District check-in point.
