Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi is a science and heritage museum in the Saadiyat Cultural District on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It opened on 22 November 2025 and tells the story of Earth, life and the natural environment, with particular attention to Arabia and the Gulf. It is the region's largest natural history museum and adds a scientific dimension to a district otherwise focused on art, religion and national history.
The galleries follow the long timeline of the planet, from the formation of the Earth and the origins of life to the age of dinosaurs, the rise of mammals and the arrival of humans. Dinosaur skeletons and fossils form a central attraction, including a well-known Tyrannosaurus rex specimen known as Stan, along with fossils, minerals, meteorites and models. Sections on Arabia explain its changing climate, from green and wet periods to the arid landscapes seen today, and show the desert, mangrove and marine ecosystems of the Emirates.
The curatorial approach is chronological and thematic, combining real specimens with immersive environments, large-scale projections and interactive displays. The museum also addresses present-day questions such as biodiversity loss and climate change, and it links scientific research with conservation work in the UAE.
Because the museum is new, the building and collections are in excellent condition, and the main preservation challenge is long-term climate control for fossils and specimens. Its location on Saadiyat means that it can be combined with the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum and the nearby beaches. The museum has a family-friendly layout, with hands-on areas that make it one of the more popular stops for children in Abu Dhabi.
| Hours | Weekdays 10:00 AM-6:30 PM; weekends to 8:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Address | Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi |
Location
Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
24.5373, 54.4046 View on map
Highlights
- Dinosaur skeletons including a Tyrannosaurus rex
- Galleries on the natural history of Arabia
- Fossils, minerals and meteorites
- Immersive environments and interactive displays
- Content on biodiversity and conservation
Tips for visiting
- Book timed tickets online, particularly for weekends and school holidays.
- Start with the Earth's origins galleries and follow the timeline to the dinosaurs.
- Visit on a weekday morning for smaller crowds.
- Allow extra time with children, as many displays are interactive.
- Weekend evening hours run later, which suits cooler visits.
When to visit
Weekday mornings are quietest; weekend evenings are livelier but busier.
Accessibility
The museum is designed with step-free routes, lifts and accessible restrooms, and is suitable for wheelchair and stroller users.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a full visit take?
Plan for 2 to 3 hours, or longer with children.
Is the museum English-language friendly?
Yes. Labels and audiovisual content are in English and Arabic.
Can you visit with kids?
Yes. The dinosaurs and hands-on exhibits make it one of the most family-friendly museums in Abu Dhabi.