The Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, confirmed that the Zayed National Museum stands as a beacon and a mirror of the narrative of the United Arab Emirates. It is not concerned with the past alone, but is a symbol of continuity and connection, a space for learning and dialogue, and a meeting point for researchers, families, students, and visitors from all over the world.
Al Mubarak stated that the museum forms a pivotal station in our journey and will host exhibitions that link the UAE with humanity wherever it is. It will explore themes ranging from archaeology to sustainability, from science to the arts, all from a perspective that carries the values and vision of our nation.
He added that from the heart of the Saadiyat Cultural District in Abu Dhabi, the museum tells the story of the nation and the values of the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God rest his soul. These are the values of unity, vision, preserving heritage, humanity, ambition, respect, and giving, which reflect the status of this land and the richness of its ancient history.
Al Mubarak affirmed that Abu Dhabi's cultural vision draws its essence from the faith of our wise leadership that culture is a vital bridge that connects societies, and that nations prosper when they preserve and cherish their heritage while keeping pace with the future.
He pointed out that the Zayed National Museum, located in the cultural district alongside the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, TeamLab Phenomena, and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, among other world-renowned institutions in the Saadiyat Cultural District, will retain its unique role, drawing its distinctiveness from the history of the UAE and the entrenched values of its people.
He explained that inside the museum's halls, visitors will find a narrative that combines deeply personal stories with a broad global resonance, beginning with the land and its people, tracing the deep roots of our cultural heritage and the history of this land dating back some 300,000 years, and culminating in the bold achievements of our modern era.
Al Mubarak highlighted that among the museum's most prominent treasures is the 'Pearl of Abu Dhabi', one of the oldest natural pearls discovered in the world, alongside the reconstructed 'Magan Boat', the timeless symbol of commercial exchange and cultural dialogue across ages. These treasures are displayed alongside innovative multimedia, rare archival artifacts, and immersive interactive exhibits that contribute to preserving our history and safeguarding our cultural heritage, ensuring its vibrant transmission to future generations.
He added that within this national narrative, the museum showcases the life and values of the late Sheikh Zayed, embodying his faith in unity, passion for the environment, commitment to education, and openness to the world.
Al Mubarak confirmed that the museum's architecture, designed by Foster + Partners, the Pritzker Architecture Prize laureate, clearly reflects these values. The five soaring steel towers, inspired by a falcon's wings at the moment of flight, embody the authenticity of our heritage and represent a landmark achievement in contemporary architecture. The museum's design embeds the concept of sustainability at its core, utilizing natural cooling and wind tower principles, or as we call them in the UAE, 'barjeels', thereby honoring the ingenuity of our traditional Emirati architecture, celebrating the spirit of innovation, and embodying the late Sheikh Zayed's legacy of environmental stewardship. The museum's spaces are designed to encourage both contemplation and dialogue.
Al Mubarak added: 'The museum's inauguration coinciding with the Union Day celebrations holds profound symbolic meaning. Union Day is an occasion where we reflect on the foundations and pillars that led to the establishment of our nation, the achievements we have accomplished together, and the shared vision that guides our steps towards the future. The opening of the Zayed National Museum has added a new chapter to this annual celebration, serving as a permanent space where these values are preserved throughout the year.'
Al Mubarak stated that the museum is a cornerstone in our broader mission and efforts to establish Abu Dhabi's status as a leading global cultural hub. The Saadiyat Cultural District has already attracted the attention of researchers, artists, and visitors from around the world, and with the Zayed National Museum at its heart, it will offer a world-class cultural destination rooted in a visionary and authentic national narrative that is welcoming to all.
Al Mubarak affirmed that the museum contributes to strengthening our bonds with the world at large, serving as a reference that enables younger generations to see themselves reflected in the achievements, life, and principles of their ancestors from whom they draw their values. As for visitors, the museum serves as an invitation to discover and understand the essence of the UAE from within and to experience our culture.
Al Mubarak said: 'We were guided by the highest standards of research and design in the creation of the Zayed National Museum. We drew on the expertise of museum curators, historians, architects, and artisans from across the UAE and the world. Every artifact, every exhibit, and every interpretation was carefully selected to ensure accuracy and authenticity.'
Al Mubarak called upon all members of the local community and the world at large to visit the museum, tour its halls, and contribute to building a shared future based on progress, cooperation, and the preservation of the authentic Emirati identity.
He said: 'We are committed to continuing our efforts to tell the story of the UAE in a way that reflects a rich journey of development and achievements. The Zayed National Museum will be one of the prominent landmarks where this rich story will be told, working to preserve the national heritage and document the cultural identity, to serve as a beacon lighting the way for future generations.'
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak:
• Inside the museum's halls, visitors will find a narrative that combines deeply personal stories with a broad global resonance. • The museum showcases the life and values of the late Sheikh Zayed, embodying his faith in unity, passion for the environment, commitment to education, and openness to the world.
