The UAE’s first museum has just reopened after a major renovation The UAE’s first museum has just reopened after a major renovation

The UAE‘s first museum has just reopened following an extensive development programme.

Al Ain Museum, which is located in the ‘Garden City’ of Abu Dhabi around a 90-minute drive from the capital, originally opened in 1969. Founded by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the country’s Founding Father, the museum traces the human inhabitation of the Al Ain region, with archaeological artefacts dating back 8,000 years.

Now spanning more than 8,000 sq m, the museum also highlights the customs and practices of those living here.

Omar Salem Al Kaabi, director of Al Ain Museum, said, “Al Ain Museum serves as the gateway to understanding the cultural and archaeological significance of Al Ain Region. It offers visitors essential historical and interpretive context that brings to life the UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering insight into the outstanding universal value of the historic locations that surround it and their contribution to our collective understanding of human history.

“Our vision is for the museum to be the starting point of a wider journey, one that inspires visitors to explore the remarkable landscapes, ancient tombs and architectural landmarks of Al Ain Region with a deeper appreciation of their enduring value to human history and local heritage.”

The Cultural Sites of Al Ain (Hafit, Hili, Bidaa Bint Saud and Oases Areas) are one of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the UAE, the other being the Faya Palaeolandscape of Sharjah, which was inscribed earlier this year.

These sites include aflaj irrigation systems dating back to the Iron Age and circular stone tombs from the Bronze Age and the Iron Age.

At the Al Ain Museum, you’ll learn about the development of the aflaj systems and how they made long-term settlement in Al Ain Region possible. Visitors can also explore the Sultan Fort, which was built in 1910.

Al Ain Museum is also home to a dedicated reading room and a temporary exhibition space, and has a dedicated research facility designed to support ongoing excavations.

More information: alainmuseum.ae

Read next: Al Ain, the ‘Garden City’