Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Witnesses The Reopening Of Al Maqta Museum In Abu Dhabi

H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, recently attended the reopening of Al Maqta Museum. This initiative, led by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Abu Dhabi Police, aims to preserve the emirate's cultural heritage. H.H. was informed about the restoration stages and toured the museum's sections, viewing historical exhibits like vintage police uniforms and patrol vehicles.

The museum is situated within Maqta Fort in the Maqta Conservation Area, which includes historic buildings that showcase Abu Dhabi’s urban development stages. In the 1950s, this building functioned as a customs house and police station, crucial for monitoring movement between the mainland and Abu Dhabi Island before Maqta Bridge was built. The bridge complemented Maqta Tower's role in guarding the waterway crossing.

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Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan emphasised that reopening Maqta Museum aligns with leadership's vision to preserve cultural heritage and historical landmarks. He stated: "The museum stands as an important cultural landmark, narrating the story of a rich heritage that has shaped this land." The renovation reflects efforts to maintain these symbols of past generations' wisdom and values.

The museum's history is deeply tied to Abu Dhabi Island's protection and development. In 1761, Sheikh Dhiyab bin Isa Al Nahyan frequently visited from Liwa Oasis. As the island expanded, Sheikh Shakhbut bin Dhiyab bin Isa Al Nahyan built Al Maqta Tower in the late 18th century to safeguard the crossing between Abu Dhabi Island and the mainland.

The renovated museum showcases DCT Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Police's efforts to highlight its historical importance to both locals and visitors. The rehabilitation included restoring the building and enhancing interpretive content. For durability, plaster was replaced with material resembling the original finish.

In the late 1950s, a causeway linked the mainland to Abu Dhabi Island, with a police station monitoring traffic at this crossing. This building later became a customs headquarters until UAE unification in 1971 ended border checks for goods entering Abu Dhabi Island. Renamed Al Maqta Fort, it underwent major restoration in 2002 to become a museum celebrating its historic significance.

A Symbol of Progress

During his visit, H.H. praised efforts by relevant entities in preserving historical landmarks that have become national symbols showcasing UAE’s cultural legacy. He stressed documenting national heritage helps current and future generations appreciate its significance while instilling Emirati identity among youth.

Sheikh Zayed added that reopening marks a valuable addition to UAE’s vibrant cultural landscape. It highlights Abu Dhabi’s journey from a trading hub to a modern capital while staying connected to its roots. The tower still stands tall today in Khor Al Maqta as a testament to this enduring legacy.

With inputs from WAM