The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi will open its doors to the public on November 22, offering visitors a deep dive into the story of life on Earth through science, nature, and discovery.
Located in Saadiyat Cultural District, it will be the largest museum of its kind in the region.
Covering 35,000 square metres, the museum will take guests on an immersive journey through 13.8 billion years — from the Big Bang and the rise of dinosaurs to the biodiversity of the modern world. The museum also places a strong focus on the Arabian Peninsula’s natural history, highlighting the region’s role in the planet’s evolving story.
Rare fossils on display
Among the key exhibits are three major specimens:
Stan the T. rex, a nearly complete skeleton of the iconic dinosaur that lived 67 million years ago.
A 25-metre blue whale model, the largest animal ever known.
The Murchison Meteorite, which contains particles older than the solar system itself.
Other regional discoveries include the Stegotetrabelodon emiratus, an extinct elephant species once found in Abu Dhabi, notable for having tusks in both its upper and lower jaws.
Focus on education and sustainability
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said:
“The opening of the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi marks a major milestone in our journey to shape the emirate’s cultural landscape. The museum offers an immersive look at the story of life on Earth, framed for the first time through an Arabian lens, with the fauna, flora, and geological history of the region forming a prominent part of the visitor journey.”
The museum will also function as a research and education centre, supporting scientific study in fields like palaeontology, marine biology, and earth sciences. A key aim is to inspire future generations and contribute to a more sustainable global outlook.
Galleries and exhibitions
The museum includes several themed galleries such as The Story of Earth, Our World, Earth’s Future, and Arabia’s Climate. Visitors can also access science-focused labs, interactive spaces, and an immersive theatre experience.
To mark its opening, two international exhibitions will be featured:
The March of the Triceratops, showcasing the world’s only touring herd of Triceratops.
The 61st Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, featuring award-winning nature photography from around the world.
Designed by architecture firm Mecanoo, the museum’s structure reflects natural rock formations and is intended to blend into the Saadiyat landscape.
The opening further strengthens the Saadiyat Cultural District, which includes institutions such as Louvre Abu Dhabi and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, and future landmarks like the Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
