The art scene in Abu Dhabi is a lively tapestry of culture, innovation, and creativity. Among its various cultural landmarks, the art galleries in Abu Dhabi are a haven for art enthusiasts. They provide an eye-candy experience for art lovers. From traditional pieces to contemporary works, each art gallery in Abu Dhabi presents a distinct perspective. Let’s explore our top picks.
- The Art Gallery at NYU Abu Dhabi
- Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Manarat al Saadiyat
- Abu Dhabi History Museum and Aquarium
- Bassam Freiha Art Foundation
- FAQs
Popular Art Galleries in Abu Dhabi
The art galleries in Abu Dhabi are where creativity comes to life, offering something to remember for everyone. If you’re an art enthusiast, a casual visitor or a photographer, these galleries are the perfect place to experience everything.
Each art gallery in Abu Dhabi tells its own story, with historical pieces dating back centuries. Let’s start exploring them.
1. The Art Gallery at NYU Abu Dhabi
The NYU Art Gallery in Abu Dhabi is a vibrant cultural space where innovation and art intersect. This non-commercial gallery displays a diverse range of thought-provoking exhibitions. It focuses more on global and regional artistry, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts.
The art gallery has also hosted several events. Some of these include:
- The Kindom of Jannah
- Salwa Mikdadi
- Production Tour
- Koken Ergun
The NYUAD project space displays a series of paintings, sculptures and art installations. Also, the gallery hosts engaging workshops, artist workshops and community events to engage budding artists with like-minded people.
Location
Contact Information
+971-2-628-8000
Timings
12:00 pm to 08:00 pm (Tuesday to Sunday)
2. Louvre Abu Dhabi
Louvre Abu Dhabi provides a cultural and artistic experience, opening visitors to new interpretations of technology, science, and history. Visitors can enjoy unique and historical artworks. These include the First Great Powers collection, First Villages artefacts, statues,s and scripts from various religions.
The museum is also home to 600 masterpieces from renowned artists. For instance, Leonardo Da Vinci, Vincent Van Gogh, Jacques-Louis David, and Johannes Vermeer are among a few. You can take an express tour or go on a tour with your school or university. Moreover, you can partake in art history walks, book an ease,l and kayak around the museum.
Location
Saadiyat Island
Contact Information
+971-600-565566
Timings
10:00 am to 12:00 am (Monday to Sunday)
3. Manarat Al Saadiyat
Manarat Al Saadiyat is Abu Dhabi’s vibrant cultural hub. It is a sleek centre for interactive local cultural displays and various international exhibitions. The art studio hosts on-site workshops, art camps and bespoke corporate events. Visitors can also explore the drop-in studio, educational group meetings and group workshops.
Manarat al Saadiyat also has an interactive photography studio where novice and professional photographers can test their skills. Additionally, there are various photography studio exhibitions, workshops and masterclasses to explore.
Location
Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Highway, Al Saadiyat Island, Cultural District
Contact Information
+971-2-657-5800
Timings
10:00 am to 08:00 pm (Monday to Sunday)
4. Abu Dhabi History Museum and Aquarium
Abu Dhabi History Museum and Aquarium is one of the top places to visit in Abu Dhabi. It blends Abu Dhabi’s rich heritage with stunning marine life. The museum displays diorama-style exhibits depicting important moments in Abu Dhabi’s development as a city.
Next door, visitors will find themselves in an underwater escape. The aquarium houses various native and exotic marine species. These include turtles, fish, stingrays, and a lot more.
Location
Al Muntazah, Zone 1
Contact Information
+971-2-449-4303
Timings
03:00 pm to 11:00 pm (Monday to Sunday)
5. Bassam Freiha Art Foundation
Bassam Freiha Art Foundation is a foundation dedicated to celebrating the legacy of Bassam Freiha. It empowers emerging artists by curating a space where emotions, ideas, and stories come to life. It features exhibitions that grant talented artists a platform to connect with people from all walks of life.
Amongst the few exhibitions include Echoes of the Orient and Reclaiming Visions. Moreover, The Sculpture Garden, Lines From Letters, Visions of the Orient, and Hour Eternal are popular exhibitions too.
Location
Cultural District, Saadiyat Island
Contact Information
+971-2-642-2338
Timings
10:00 am to 08:00 pm (Monday to Sunday)
FAQs
The artworks in an art gallery in Abu Dhabi range from historical artefacts to classical pieces. Moreover, contemporary installations, photographic masterpieces, and digital art pieces can be found too.
Yes! Most art galleries host events and workshops, allowing visitors to collaborate with like-minded people. For example, Manarat Al Saadiyat offers talks, interactive events, and art workshops for visitors of all ages.
The photography policies may vary from gallery to gallery. Some areas permit non-flash photography. However, others completely prohibit it, especially in special exhibitions.
Exploring the art galleries in Abu Dhabi is an enriching journey into Abu Dhabi’s culture and creativity scene. Visitors can immerse themselves in the captivating exhibits, workshops, and art installations. After you’re done visiting the galleries, try these tourist places in Abu Dhabi to get the most out of your day!
