UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Inaugurates Zayed National Museum During Eid Al Etihad Celebrations
The Zayed National Museum was officially opened by UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District. This event coincided with the UAE's 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations. The inauguration was attended by several dignitaries, including Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates.
Among those present were His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai; His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah; and other prominent leaders. The presence of these figures underscored the significance of the museum's opening.
The museum is a tribute to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Founding Father. It narrates the story of the land and its people from ancient times to today. Through advanced technologies, soundscapes, visual storytelling, artefacts, and historical items, visitors embark on an immersive journey.
Architecturally inspired by falcon wings, the museum symbolises UAE’s ambitions and cultural heritage. H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed described it as a monument honouring Sheikh Zayed's leadership and humanitarian values. It connects UAE’s rich past with its present and future.
The museum houses over 3,000 pieces, with 1,500 currently displayed. These exhibits include audio recordings, photographs, archival footage, and personal belongings of Sheikh Zayed. They capture defining moments in UAE history. The galleries offer insights into various aspects of Emirati life.
Six permanent galleries are featured: "Our Beginning," "Through Our Nature," "To Our Ancestors," "Through Our Connections," "By Our Coasts," and "To Our Roots." Each gallery explores different facets of UAE’s history and culture through interactive displays.
Cultural Programmes
A vibrant cultural programme marks the museum's opening. It includes live performances, interactive workshops, guided tours, and creative activities for all ages. This initiative offers visitors a unique opportunity to engage with this landmark cultural event.
Following the inauguration ceremony, H.H., along with other dignitaries, toured the museum’s galleries. They explored exhibits that document key milestones in UAE’s history. The museum serves as a gateway for understanding UAE’s culture across generations.
The Zayed National Museum also features temporary exhibitions alongside Al Masar Garden – a 600-metre-long open-air gallery introducing visitors to landscapes that shaped the UAE. This space celebrates Emirati identity through traditional ways of life and customs.
H.H. emphasised preserving Sheikh Zayed's legacy as a shared national responsibility. He highlighted how the museum documents achievements shaping UAE’s identity and global standing while inspiring future generations.
With inputs from WAM
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