ABU DHABI, 16 May 2025 (WAM) – Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi is set to mark International Museum Day on Sunday, 18 May, with an expansive celebration of culture, art, and creativity, positioning itself as a premier destination for cultural enthusiasts.
Throughout the month, the island will host a diverse array of exhibitions, workshops, and immersive experiences, ranging from ancient artefacts and digital installations to contemporary exhibitions and interactive sessions.
Central to the celebrations is the Louvre Abu Dhabi, which will offer free admission for all UAE residents on 18 May from 10am to midnight, with galleries accessible until 8:30pm. The museum is currently featuring “Kings and Queens of Africa,” an exhibition running until 25 May that explores the legacy and influence of African monarchs through a curated collection of artworks and historical objects.
In addition, families can visit the Children’s Museum within the Louvre, where the interactive exhibition “Picturing the Cosmos” merges art and science in a space designed to engage young audiences.
On the same day, art enthusiasts can take part in the final session of “Drawing at the Museum” from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. Led by a museum educator, the session guides participants through sketching techniques inspired by the museum’s permanent collection.
Beyond the Louvre, the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation will host “Art Beyond the Surface” on 27 May at 6pm. This tactile art workshop focuses on the creative use of texture and layering, offering a hands-on experience suitable for participants of all skill levels.
Meanwhile, Manarat Al Saadiyat continues to serve as a key artistic venue on the island, offering daily workshops and open studio sessions covering disciplines such as ceramics, painting, and more. A major collaborative exhibition with the Seoul Museum of Art, running until 30 June, highlights the energy and innovation of Korea’s contemporary art scene through boundary-challenging works.
Adding to the island’s dynamic cultural landscape is teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, a newly opened 17,000-square-metre immersive art space featuring over 20 interactive installations. The venue combines technology, nature, and art in a constantly evolving environment that ensures a unique experience with each visit.
Looking ahead, Saadiyat Island is poised to further enhance its global cultural stature with the upcoming openings of Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, and the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi. These institutions are expected to significantly expand the island’s artistic and educational offerings, solidifying its role as a cultural cornerstone in the region.
