Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum is an art and culture museum in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Opened in 2017, this museum is the result of a partnership with the famous Louvre Museum. Known for its iconic dome and modern design, Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum impresses visitors with its wide collection of pieces from different times and cultures.
Designed by Jean Nouvel, the museum's architecture also wins the admiration of art lovers. The floating dome creates a play of light and shadow, offering a unique atmosphere for visitors. The museum's design enhances the artistic experience.
The mission of Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum is to strengthen cultural connections by offering different views on human history. Therefore, the displayed works come from various time periods and places.
Where is Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum ?
Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum is located in Abu Dhabi, on Saadiyat Island, where natural beauty meets modern design. Saadiyat Island is just 10 minutes from Abu Dhabi city center, offering visitors a mix of culture and nature. Designed by Jean Nouvel, the architecture blends Arab and French styles, making it famous worldwide.
Address: Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum - Saadiyat - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
How to Get to the Museum?
Public Transport
Take a bus from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station on Sultan Bin Zayed Street. The trip takes about 20 minutes and costs between $0.49-$0.76. Then, get off at Laffan Street / Stop 1152 and take a taxi for a 3.3 km ride, which takes about 4 minutes and costs $2.18-$2.72. The total journey is 24 minutes and costs about $2.67-$3.48.
Taxi
A taxi from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Terminal to the Louvre Museum takes only 11 minutes, covering a distance of 12.2 km. This quick ride takes you from the city center to the meeting point of modern art and cultural heritage at Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum. The estimated fare is $5.99-$7.35.
Private Car
Driving from Abu Dhabi Center to Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum takes 11 minutes, covering a distance of 12.2 km. The cost is $1.36-$1.90. If you wish to rent a car from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Terminal 1, you can check out rental options. Your destination is Louvre Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.
Best Time to Visit the Louvre Museum
The best time to visit the Louvre Museum in Abu Dhabi is from December to March when the weather is cooler. It's better to go on weekdays, as weekends are busier. For a more comfortable experience, visit early in the morning or in the afternoon to enjoy the art collections.
Opening Hours of Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum is open from Tuesday to Thursday, 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM. On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, it's open from 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM. The museum is closed on Mondays. It's a good idea to check the official website for any changes to hours or events. Also, buying tickets in advance is smart to avoid long lines.
Architectural Features of Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum
Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum is designed by famous French architect Jean Nouvel. The museum's structure combines modern lines with traditional Arab aesthetics. Jean Nouvel emphasized light and shadow effects in his design. The geometric patterns on the museum's roof allow daylight to enter the spaces uniquely. This gives visitors the chance to view artworks in natural light.
The patterns on the museum’s roof, called "rain of light," let sunlight reflect inside. This design creates a constant play of shadow and light within the museum. The movement of sunlight during the day continuously changes the museum's atmosphere, offering visitors a unique experience. This creative design by Jean Nouvel is one of the most striking features of Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum impresses not only with its interiors but also with its exterior design. The museum's gardens provide a peaceful setting for visitors. The water channels in the gardens are inspired by traditional Arab water architecture. In this way, the museum offers visitors the chance to experience art intertwined with nature. Additionally, the walking paths around the museum allow visitors to enjoy a pleasant stroll.
Entry Fees for the Louvre Museum, Abu Dhabi
Entry to the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum costs about 17 USD for adults. It is free for those under 18 and over 60. Some special exhibitions or events may have extra charges.
For a smooth visit, choose our Lovre Museum Tour. We pick you up from set locations or your hotel in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, and take you comfortably to the impressive Louvre Museum on Saadiyat Island. Once there, you can admire the iconic design by Jean Nouvel and explore the wide collections covering different cultures and times. You will see masterpieces by famous artists and exhibitions showing the richness of global artistic heritage. After this cultural experience, you travel back to Dubai or Abu Dhabi and can be dropped off at your hotel. This tour offers a unique chance to appreciate the beauty and meaning of art and heritage.
Exhibitions at The Louvre
Meet this 350-year-old amazing statue called The Horses of the Sun. This art piece was ordered by King Louis XIV in the 1660s. The statue has its own story. Historians say that as a young king, Louis XIV wanted to connect himself with Apollo, the sun god, peace, and the arts. This grand statue, showing the Greek God at the end of a parade in his chariot, is in Gallery 8. This gallery is dedicated to 'The Glory of the Palace' and displays remarkable paintings and sculptures of rulers and royalty. This eye-catching statue, which dominates the room, is an art piece worth seeing.
The Horses of the Sun, Gilles Guerin (1668 – 1675)
Add an artistic touch to this exhibition at Louvre Abu Dhabi. Described as a visual poem, this interesting installation is by Saudi Arabian artist Maha Malluh. It consists of eleven burnt pots used for cooking a traditional goat stew. These burnt pots, a nod to classical Arabic poetry, are reminders of the stories told during meals in nomadic tradition.
Fountain of Light is an impressive structure made of bent steel and 32,400 glass crystals. This eye-catching, shining sculpture by Chinese artist and activist Ai Weiwei is a notable piece. Although this version of the sculpture was made and adapted for Louvre Abu Dhabi, it is actually based on an earlier version he made for Liverpool in 2007, which in turn is based on the unbuilt Tatlin Tower from almost a century ago, in 1919. The 2,000-kilogram structure, with 150 lights, is located in the museum's final gallery – a magnificent end to your museum visit. There is an interesting history behind this striking installation.
Fountain of Light, Ai Weiwei (2016)
This fascinating art piece was made in 1878 by iconic Ottoman artist Osman Hamdi Bey. The painting shows a young Emir studying in an impressive interior of a grand palace. Osman Hamdi Bey is known for his sense of beauty and his artistic style in creating imaginary scenes like A Young Emir Studying.
Tips for Visiting the Louvre Museum
- Book Early: To avoid long waits and get the time you want, book your tickets online before you go, especially during busy tourist times.
- Choose Your Visit Time: Visit during quieter hours for a more relaxed experience. Early mornings or late afternoons can be ideal.
- Wear Comfortable Clothes: Even though the Louvre Museum is prestigious, wear comfy clothes and shoes, especially if you plan to walk around or join guided tours.
- Use The Map: Get a museum map to navigate easily and ensure you don't miss key exhibits.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring a water bottle to keep refreshed, as you might forget to drink enough water while exploring.
- Check the Weather: If you plan to explore the museum's outdoor spaces, check the weather forecast for a pleasant experience.
- Explore Nearby: After visiting the Louvre Museum, explore the surrounding gardens and nearby cafes and shops for a cultural afternoon.
Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum offers a special experience for art and history lovers. This famous museum amazes visitors with important works from history and shows the richness of cultural heritage. While exploring the artworks, you can enjoy the impressive architecture and peaceful atmosphere of the museum. Designed by Jean Nouvel, its dome and light play provide a unique visual treat. Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum is a paradise for art enthusiasts to explore.
FAQs
How long should I stay at Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum?
Visitors can stay in the museum for three hours. Tours around the whole museum take no more than two hours.
Are there specific hours for the last entry?
At Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum, the galleries and exhibitions close at 6:30 PM on weekdays and 8:30 PM on weekends. The dome is open until midnight, and the last entry is at 11:00 PM. The last entry for galleries and exhibitions is at 6:00 PM, and the ticket counters close at 5:30 PM.
Is Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum open every day?
Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday and closed on Mondays. To ensure everyone’s safety and a great experience, a "Green Status" on the Al Hosn App is required.
Can I visit the Louvre Museum from Dubai?
Absolutely! Our Abu Dhabi City Tour from Dubai allows you to explore not only the Louvre Museum but the entire city of Abu Dhabi. Your journey begins at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, celebrated for its stunning architecture and cultural significance. Next, you'll visit Heritage Village, where you'll delve into Abu Dhabi's rich traditions. Take a brief pause at Marina Mall to shop and savor a variety of culinary delights.
As you traverse the city, enjoy a picturesque drive along the Corniche, perfect for capturing Abu Dhabi's iconic skyline. At the renowned Louvre Museum, delve into the world of art and uncover treasures from diverse cultures and eras with the help of a knowledgeable guide. Conclude your adventure with an exhilarating experience at Ferrari World, where you'll feel the thrill of speed and innovation.
What are Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum's contact details?
You can contact Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum by phone and email.
- Phone: +971-600-56-55-66
- Email: contact@louvreabudhabi.ae