Free Entry to 8 UAE Museums and Cultural Sites from May 16-18 for International Museum Day
From May 16 to 18, history enthusiasts can explore the rich cultural heritage of the UAE and beyond, as the country celebrates International Museum Day on May 18. During this period, eight prominent museums and cultural sites across Abu Dhabi and Dubai will offer free access, discounted tickets, and special programs.
What is International Museum Day?
International Museum Day, observed globally on May 18, aims to emphasize the vital role museums play in fostering cultural exchange, cooperation, and peace among communities. This year’s theme, “Museums uniting a divided world,” invites visitors in the UAE to engage with history and culture at no cost from May 16 to 18.
1. Louvre Abu Dhabi
Dates: May 16 to 18
Louvre Abu Dhabi, a hallmark of architectural brilliance designed by Jean Nouvel, typically charges Dh70 for adult entry. However, during these three days, visitors can explore its 23 permanent galleries and enjoy free guided tours. Special offerings include:
- Access to the Picasso exhibition
- Live scientific conservation demonstrations
- Free screenings of “The Pulse of Time,” a 40-minute film showcasing masterpieces from the museum’s collection
- Virtual reality and self-guided digital experiences
- Adult painting workshops under the iconic dome
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 8 PM
How to Get There: Located in the Saadiyat Cultural District, access is via the E12 highway. A free ‘Cultural Express’ shuttle bus will run from Dubai, departing at 9 AM from various hotels and returning by 7:30 PM.
2. Qasr Al Hosn
Dates: May 17 to 18
Constructed in 1790, Qasr Al Hosn is Abu Dhabi’s oldest structure and a significant historical landmark. Once a watchtower and residence for the ruling Al Nahyan family, it now serves as a National Archive Centre. Visitors can explore historical artifacts and archival records that illustrate the UAE’s development.
Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 9 AM to 7 PM
How to Get There: Centrally located on Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, accessible via Corniche Street.
3. Zayed National Museum
The Zayed National Museum, situated in the Saadiyat Cultural District, honors the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan while tracing 300,000 years of UAE history. The museum features six permanent galleries, immersive storytelling experiences, and Emirati cultural programs. A notable highlight is a 300,000-year-old stone tool discovered near Jebel Hafeet.
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 8 PM
How to Get There: Adjacent to Louvre Abu Dhabi, accessible via the E12 highway. The free ‘Cultural Express’ shuttle bus from Dubai also serves this location.
4. Al Ain Museum
Established in 1969, Al Ain Museum is the UAE’s first purpose-built museum, founded by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It houses artifacts from the Paleolithic and Iron Age. For International Museum Day, the museum will host free educational workshops, interactive activities, and storytelling sessions.
Opening Hours: Daily, 9 AM to 7 PM
How to Get There: Located near Al Jahili Fort and Al Ain Oasis, it is accessible from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, or Sharjah, with signs directing visitors to the heritage site.
5. Delma Museum
Located on Delma Island, approximately 30 kilometers off the coast of Abu Dhabi, Delma Museum was once the residence of renowned pearl merchant Mohammed bin Jasim Al Muraikhi. The museum showcases pearling equipment, archaeological finds, and traditional date syrup-making tools.
Opening Hours: Friday to Sunday, 2 PM to 10 PM
How to Get There: A ferry service departs from Al Dhanna marine station in Abu Dhabi at 10 AM and 4 PM, with tickets priced at Dh20.
6. Al Maqta’a Museum
Housed within Al Maqta’a Fort, a former Customs House from the 1950s, this museum features vintage police cars, historic uniforms, and interactive exhibits. It provides a family-friendly environment with outdoor attractions.
Opening Hours: Saturday to Thursday, 9 AM to 5 PM; Friday, 2 PM to 8 PM
How to Get There: Located between the E10 and E22 highways, accessible via signs for the museum.
7. Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi
As one of Abu Dhabi’s newest cultural attractions, the Natural History Museum offers insights into 13.8 billion years of natural history, featuring T-rex and triceratops skeletons among its immersive exhibitions.
Opening Hours: Friday to Sunday, 10 AM to 8:30 PM
How to Get There: Situated in the Saadiyat Cultural District, accessible via the E12 highway. The free ‘Cultural Express’ shuttle bus from Dubai also serves this location.
8. Expo City Dubai and Terra – The Sustainability Pavilion
From May 16 to 18, visitors can enjoy free entry to the Expo 2020 museum, which presents an immersive experience of the World Expo’s history and legacy. The Vision Pavilion, celebrating the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is also accessible at no cost. Discounted tickets for the Terra Pavilion will be available for AED 20.
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday, 8 AM to 5 PM; Friday, 8 AM to 12:30 PM
How to Get There: Accessible via the E311 highway or the E77 Expo Road. The Dubai Metro also provides convenient access to the Expo 2020 station on the Red Line.
As reported by www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-05-13 15:46:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk