UAE’s history is rich in legends. To preserve those stories and bind the nation with their roots, the state established various museums, including the Etihad Museum. The Ethihad Museum has immense value in narrating the UAE’s historical events.
Not to mention, the museum is divided into several sections, making it a haven for national and international history enthusiasts. Scroll down to explore more about the Etihad Museum in Dubai!
Location
1 Jumeirah St, Al Mina, Jumeirah 1, Dubai, UAE
Etihad Museum Dubai Sections
Opened in 2016, Etihad Museum is one of the best museums in UAE. It is divided into various sections.
1. Visitors Pavillion
The museum’s artistic façade is a historical structure inspired by the Unification Agreement. The pavilion features seven leaning columns representing the pens that signed the 1971 constitution.
A massive sculpture depicting the UAE constitution’s preamble stands tall in the visitors’ pavilion. Besides that, the majestic view of the country’s letters and history is embraced through wide glass windows, making it a must-see for visitors.
2. Quotes of the Founding Fathers
The corners and sides of the Etihad Museum are beautifully carved with famous quotes from the Founding Fathers. Their artistic design grabs the visitors’ attention as the walls seem like they are perfectly sculpted with the quotes.
3. Art Work
A massive, eye-catching painting by the famous Emirati artist Abdul Qader Al Rais is placed at the beginning of the museum. It grabs the attention of visitors before they enter into the temporary exhibitions and museum sections.
4. Union Tree Garden
The museum entrance features a small garden surrounded by glass partitions and a water wall. The section also features a tree planted by H. H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai.
5. The Founders
The museum’s first exhibition is divided into seven categories. Each of them features majestic images of the founders and their belongings. There are interactive screens as well displaying historical information, such as:
- Biographies
- Family trees
- Unique pictures
- Video clips
6. Dreams of Unity
The section offers a historical journey through special effects and music, showcasing the Union’s story and significant films. The section highlights the major events and influential personalities that shaped the foundation of the modern state.
7. UAE Interactive Map
The exhibition showcases the pre-Union period, featuring a panoramic interactive map of the region comprising the Trucial States before the union. This can be activated and accessed through various videos and audio using projection mapping technology.
8. The Early Years
The visual showcase provides an in-depth explanation of the pre-Union negotiations with neighbouring Arab countries and foreign nations.
9. Road to Unification
The section explains the Union’s foundation through an irrigation canal-shaped exhibition featuring interactive events and historical events. The exhibition features three canals, each equipped with interactive screens for the visually impaired.
- Canal One covers the Trucial Council until 1971.
- Canal Two from 1972 until Ras Al Khaimah joined the Federation.
- Canal Three from Ras Al Khaimah joined the Federation around 1981.
10. Seeds of Unity
The exhibition features a 3D Hologram screen that takes visitors on a historical journey, showcasing the famous meeting of His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his brother, Former Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, at Sayh Al-Sadira.
The narration of the event is recorded in the voice of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
11. Change and Unification
This section showcases three technological games where the screen interacts with seven cubes with specific codes. When the encrypted part of the selected cube hits a particular spot, the content of the cube reveals its theme, including:
- Identity
- Religion
- Security
- Defence
- Independence
- Territorial sovereignty
- Culture
12. Unifying the Emirates
The section explores the leadership of the United Arab Emirates, highlighting the challenges faced before unification in 1971. Unifying the Emirates features a winding path through the portrait of rulers, allowing viewers to witness key moments leading to this period.
Along with that, the section is equipped with sound effects, including headphones for the visually impaired.
13. The Constitution
The golden fresco in the Etihad Museum constitution section features sentences from the constitution in silver. The constitution signed by the Founding Governors and the Treaty of Friendship between the UAE and the UK by Sheikh Zayed is also displayed.
Two copies of the constitution are available in Arabic and English, accessible to all. An interactive screen for children also provides an educational and entertaining way to learn the terms of the constitution.
14. United Arab Emirates – One Nation, One Future
The UAE exhibition hall features interactive screens showcasing the country’s growth and development post-Union, covering:
- International relations
- UN recognition
- Individual development
The section displays the National Anthem, UAE slogan, flag design and national treasures like artefacts and historical newspapers.
The last three showcases display the UAE Armed Forces’ unity, including medals and military costumes. Additionally, the huge screen at the end provides a comprehensive understanding of the UAE’s past, present, and future.
15. Auditorium
The reception area offers a stunning view of the underground museum’s unique architecture, while visitors can access the Union Theatre. The auditorium has 120 seats for special events, temporary exhibitions, and conferences.
Etihad Museum Dubai Facilities
The following are the amenities and facilities available at Etihad Museum in Dubai:
1. Hint Café
The restaurant on the upper floor above the Union Museum entrance offers a wide range of meals daily. Its height provides a stunning view of the Preamble of the Constitution, the Museum’s external square, the historical flag, and the tall flagpole.
2. Temporary Exhibition Hall
The museum’s large hall houses temporary exhibitions, promoting diversity and fostering patriotism through various events.
3. Library
The Museum Library houses over 3,000 political, social and historical books. Etihad Museum Library also offers various educational items related to the UAE, including:
- Magazines
- Booklets
- CDs
- Journals
4. Classrooms
This department is divided into two sections focusing on educating, training and delivering educational and practical lessons simultaneously.
5. Gift Shop
The Museum Gift Shop offers a variety of unique and educational items that are not found anywhere else, including:
- Souvenirs
- Books
- Clothing
- Custom-designed products
6. Coffee Shop
The coffee shop in the Museum’s final section offers visitors a wide range of hot beverages and snacks.
7. Multipurpose Hall
The spacious hall can accommodate 70-100 individuals and is suitable for hosting various events, such as:
- Seminars
- Exhibitions
- Conferences
- Workshops
8. Guest Palace
The Guest Palace, a renowned landmark in Dubai, has undergone numerous restorations to maintain its original condition. It is connected to the Etihad Museum underground and has a suite above ground.
9. Union House
The Union House, the birthplace of the United Arab Emirates in 1971, has been restored to its original style and features curved architecture. Historical value and gratitude of the Union House greet visitors to the founding fathers for their vision and determination.
10. The Flagpole
A waterbody was created to match the shoreline shape during the Union of the United Arab Emirates signature. A 123-metre flagpole symbolises the land’s significance. The spot next to the flag is designed for events.
11. Union Flag
The flag representing unity, perseverance, and loyalty, once gathered by Founding Governors, reflects the historical area’s image and dimension.
Etihad Museum Dubai Ticket Prices
The following are the Etihad Museum ticket costs:
- Adult: AED 25
- Student (5 to 24 years): AED 10
- Group (5 persons and above): AED 20
Etihad Museum Information
Here are the contact details and timings to visit the Etihad Museum in Dubai:
Timings
- 10:00 am to 08:00 pm (Monday to Sunday)
- Last entry: 07:00 pm
Contact
- +971 800 33222
- Etihad.Museum@dubaiculture.ae
FAQs
The Etihad Museum in Dubai is located on Jumeirah Street, Al Mina, Jumeirah 1.
You can go in shorts to Etihad Museum as you are allowed to wear casual clothes inside the museum.
Yes, the Etihad Museum is open during Ramadan.
Etihad Museum is one of the Emirati Museums located in Dubai. However, the Etihad Museum’s former name was the Union House.
The Etihad Museum Dubai was built on 2nd December 2016.
Plan your visit to the Etihad Museum in Dubai and have a unique experience of learning the history of the UAE.
Besides, you can also visit the Museum of Illusions for a fun day out! Also, don’t forget to check out Property Finder’s blog for more exciting places to visit in the UAE.
