Abu Dhabi Announces Free Entry to Museums and Cultural Sites for International Museum Day

Residents and visitors can enjoy free access to museums and cultural institutions across Abu Dhabi from May 16 to 18 as part of celebrations marking International Museum Day.

Held under the theme “Museums Uniting a Divided World,” the initiative highlights the role museums and cultural institutions play in encouraging dialogue, strengthening communities, and promoting cultural understanding.

The three-day programme includes free entry, workshops, guided tours, performances, family activities, and interactive experiences across locations in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Saadiyat Cultural District, and Delma Island.

Louvre Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum among participating venues

At Louvre Abu Dhabi, visitors can explore galleries featuring artworks from different cultures and historical periods while joining free themed tours of the permanent galleries and the Picasso Exhibition.

The museum will also host free children’s workshops between 11am and 3pm, while specialised experiences such as architecture and olfactory tours will be available at an additional cost.

Zayed National Museum will offer performances, heritage workshops, storytelling sessions, bracelet-making activities, and family scavenger hunts designed to showcase the UAE’s history and culture.

Visitors have been encouraged to book tickets in advance through the museum’s official platform.

Interactive workshops and family activities

The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi will organise hands-on science and creativity workshops including mini exhibit creation, sun printing activities, light experiments, and craft workshops inspired by the natural world.

Qasr Al Hosn will host a “Children’s Takeover” event where young participants aged 10 and above can experience museum-related roles such as cultural tour guides, photographers, and ticketing staff.

At the Cultural Foundation, children will take part in guided interactive experiences designed to introduce them to the inner workings of cultural institutions.

Al Ain and Delma Island cultural programmes

Al Ain Museum and the Al Ain Cultural Sites — including Qasr Al Muwaiji, Al Jahili Fort, Al Ain Oasis, Al Qattara Arts Centre, and Bait Mohammed Bin Khalifa — will host programmes focused on conservation, heritage preservation, and the historical significance of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Delma Museum will organise a “Cultural Pathway to the Future” initiative aimed at reviving the Young Tour Guides programme.

Library activities for children and teens

Abu Dhabi Libraries, including Khalifa Park Library, Al Wathba Library, Al Bahia Library, Zayed Central Library in Al Ain, and Al Marfaa Library, will host educational and creative activities for children and teenagers aged 6 to 14.

The programme combines storytelling, art-making, and hands-on learning experiences focused on Abu Dhabi’s museums and cultural institutions.

The initiative forms part of Abu Dhabi’s wider efforts to promote cultural engagement, heritage preservation, and community participation through accessible educational and artistic experiences.