His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan officially opened the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi on November 21, 2025, marking a significant milestone for the United Arab Emirates in cultural and scientific exploration. Situated in the vibrant Saadiyat Cultural District, this museum is poised to become the largest institution of its kind in the Middle East, offering a comprehensive journey through 13.8 billion years of scientific discovery and natural history.
The museum is set to welcome the public starting November 22, showcasing its unique focus on the natural history of the Arabian region alongside global narratives. Visitors can explore extraordinary exhibits and interactive experiences that vividly illustrate the story of life on Earth, including a spectacular display of dinosaurs.
Unprecedented Exhibits Highlight Museum’s Focus
One of the museum’s standout features is the world-first display of a herd of five sauropod dinosaurs, a stunning array of these long-necked giants that greet visitors as they enter the atrium. This unprecedented exhibit sets the stage for a deeper understanding of prehistoric life, further enhanced by a groundbreaking scene depicting two Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons engaged in a dramatic battle over a Triceratops. This dynamic presentation marks the first time two fossilized T. rexes have been exhibited together in such a context.
The museum also showcases a rich history of the region, taking visitors back seven million years to a time when a lush savannah landscape was home to now-extinct species, including a giant elephant with four tusks. This exploration of the Emirates’ past provides a unique opportunity to connect with the natural heritage of the region.
Commitment to Education and Research
The mission of the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi extends beyond exhibition. H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, emphasized the museum’s role as a hub where knowledge intersects with wonder. He stated, “The museum offers a different perspective of the story of life on Earth, framed for the first time through an Arabian lens.” This commitment to education aims to inspire curiosity and promote scientific understanding among visitors of all ages.
The museum is also dedicated to advancing interdisciplinary research, fostering environmental awareness, and encouraging future generations to engage with the natural world. By prioritizing education and outreach, it seeks to empower young citizens to become leaders in scientific research and conservation efforts.
In line with the UAE’s commitment to sustainability, the museum will actively engage in biodiversity research and environmental education, positioning itself as a beacon of knowledge for the community. With a focus on making natural history accessible, the museum plans to host public programming, educational workshops, and community initiatives that invite everyone to participate in learning and discovery.
The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi joins a prestigious collection of cultural institutions on Saadiyat Island, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the forthcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. Together, these establishments are set to define the Saadiyat Cultural District as a global destination for art, science, and heritage, enriching the cultural landscape of the UAE.
As the museum prepares to open its doors, it promises to be an inspiring space where scientific knowledge and cultural insights converge, encouraging visitors to think critically and act responsibly in shaping a sustainable future. Tickets for the museum can be purchased at nhmad.ae.
The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi stands as a testament to the UAE’s ambition to foster a culture of inquiry and exploration, connecting past, present, and future through its world-class collections and engaging experiences.
