Today, I had the privilege of being part of a FAM tour organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, where we were introduced to a remarkable new landmark in the region’s tourism and cultural landscape: the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi.
The museum carries a powerful mission: to inspire and empower people to reconnect with the natural world. It presents itself as a vibrant, global natural history museum that brings people together across cultures and continents, while carrying a strong legacy focused on sustainability and the future of our planet.
The journey inside is truly awe-inspiring. The Story of Earth begins with the Big Bang and traces the formation of our extraordinary planet. As you move forward, The Evolving World takes you back millions of years to the age of dinosaurs, revealing how ancient life forms shaped the world we live in today. Standing in front of original dinosaur skeletons, the magnificent Blue Whale, and other extraordinary creatures genuinely gives you goosebumps.
What makes the experience even more fascinating is the deep connection to local history. The museum highlights that elephants once roamed Abu Dhabi nearly 7 million years ago, freshwater rivers flowed through the region, and several species of monkeys existed here, an incredible reminder of how dynamic Earth’s landscapes have always been.
Rising gracefully from the waterfront of Saadiyat Island, the museum’s architecture draws inspiration from basalt columns formed by ancient lava flows. Hanging gardens and planted terraces cascade toward the sea, seamlessly blending nature with design. A dramatic canyon-like wadi divides the structure, creating shaded habitats for native plants and animals, making the building itself a living ecosystem. The exterior functions as a botanical garden for the city while standing as a powerful cultural landmark along the Arabian Gulf.
One of the most extraordinary highlights of the visit is “Lucy”, the world-famous 3.2-million-year-old hominin fossil, currently on display at the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi. Borrowed for a special three-month exhibition, Lucy offers a rare glimpse into human evolution and will return to Ethiopia in the month of February.
Beyond knowledge, the museum leaves you with a strong realization of how human dominance has impacted Earth’s resources and climate. Yet, it also reminds us that the planet has remarkable recovery abilities, and with small, conscious efforts, we can create meaningful change.
Opening Hours:
10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (Friday–Sunday open until 8:30 PM)
Entry: Free for children up to 18 years