Zayed National Museum to Open on December 3 in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District

Abu Dhabi is preparing to welcome visitors to one of its most anticipated cultural landmarks—**the Zayed National Museum, opening its doors to the public on December 3, 2025. Located in the heart of the Saadiyat Cultural District, the museum stands as a stunning tribute to the legacy of the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and his lifelong dedication to culture, heritage, education, and national identity.

Announced by the Abu Dhabi Media Office, the museum will officially open on UAE National Day weekend, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s cultural evolution. Ticket sales have already begun, with general admission priced at AED 70 for adults. Special concessions are available: UAE students and teachers can enter for AED 35, while minors, senior Emiratis and residents, people of determination, and journalists on assignment can enter free of charge.

Designed by renowned architect Lord Norman Foster of Foster + Partners, the museum’s architecture is as iconic as its mission. Five soaring steel structures, inspired by the wings of a falcon in flight, rise above the building an homage to falconry, a cultural tradition deeply rooted in Emirati heritage. The museum is also a benchmark in sustainable architectural design, integrating traditional aesthetics with modern innovation.

Visitors will be taken on an immersive journey through the history of the UAE, starting from the discovery of a 300,000-year-old stone tool in Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain, to the modern era. Through its thoughtfully curated exhibitions, the museum not only chronicles the life and values of Sheikh Zayed, but also highlights the cultural and historical milestones that have shaped the United Arab Emirates.

The Zayed National Museum offers more than galleries it includes public programs, research initiatives, and educational outreach, all aimed at reinforcing the values Sheikh Zayed championed: wisdom, respect, sustainability, and unity.

Timed-entry tickets are available in hourly slots from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, ensuring a smooth and immersive experience for visitors. The museum’s opening is expected to draw significant local and international interest, reaffirming Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for culture, learning, and heritage.