Abu Dhabi, represented by the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT Abu Dhabi), has recently reaffirmed its commitment to completing the Saadiyat Cultural District by 2025. This district, deeply rooted in cultural legacy, celebrates traditions and fosters an inclusive environment. It serves as a symbol of empowerment through its array of museums, collections, and narratives, paying homage to the region’s heritage and contributing to the global cultural scene.
The Saadiyat Cultural District is set to become a prominent cultural hub, with a diverse range of institutions already making their mark. The district is home to the renowned Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Arab world’s first universal museum, celebrated for its juxtaposition of artworks from various cultures, weaving a narrative of human interconnectedness. Since its launch in 2017, Louvre Abu Dhabi has welcomed over 5 million visitors, gaining recognition for its striking architecture and innovative storytelling.
Adjoining the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Berklee Abu Dhabi enriches the district with its focus on music, performing arts, and year-round educational programs. Manarat Al Saadiyat serves as a hub for creative expression, hosting notable events such as Abu Dhabi Art and the Culture Summit.
The Saadiyat Cultural District’s upcoming institutions are currently in progress, with construction at 76% completion. The Zayed National Museum, dedicated to preserving the UAE’s rich history and culture, is set to become a pivotal addition to the district. teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi promises an immersive experience that pushes the boundaries of imagination. The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi will offer a journey through the universe’s 13.8 billion-year history, while the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi will showcase modern artistic achievements.
The Saadiyat Cultural District pays tribute to the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose patronage of archaeological discoveries laid the foundation for the UAE’s cultural narrative. This legacy, initiated with the establishment of the Al Ain Museum in 1971 and continued by the Cultural Foundation in 1981, is now being expanded under the guidance of HH Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and HH Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed.
HE Mohamed Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, emphasized the profound impact of culture, stating, ‘Culture shapes our evolution and expands our perspectives. In Abu Dhabi, we recognize this influence and cultivate a deep appreciation that reverberates throughout our community. The Saadiyat Cultural District embodies ‘cultural hope’ and will convey a message of diversity that resonates over time, fostering connections, inspiring exchange, and nurturing new perspectives. It is a place where people can explore the past, understand the present, and envision the future.’
The Saadiyat Cultural District symbolizes Abu Dhabi’s commitment to preserving heritage while embracing a progressive outlook. It serves as a global invitation, encouraging interaction with diverse cultures, promoting dialogue and exchange, and providing a cultural platform that benefits not only the region but also the global south.
