The UAE culture and heritage are as impressive as its level of modernity now. If you love exploring and want to know new information and have fun also, then you are in the right place.
This article is your handy guide for the best museums in UAE, including cultural, artistic, and entertaining ones; keep reading to discover more about those unique gems around the UAE.
Dubai
1. Museum of the Future
Dubai raised the benchmark of museums worldwide with the Museum of the Future. It’s an iconic and innovative design that will leave you mesmerised.
The Museum of the Future gives you a unique opportunity to witness the city’s future plans.
This is through interactive movies made by expert storytellers, visionary artists, and technologists.
They tackle different fields like climate change, space travel, health, and more. The Museum of the Future is your doorway to a better future.
Location
It’s located on Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai.
Highlights
- There are various workshops and talks held there, which is a great opportunity for exposure and meeting different minds.
- Its building is decorated with Arabic calligraphy, making it an artistic piece of architecture.
Prices
- AED 145/person.
- Kids under 3: Free
Opening Hours
10 am – 6 pm daily
Contact Information
- 800 2071
- info@museumofthefuture.ae
2. Museum of Illusions
Do you need to recharge and try activities out of the box? If yes, then head to the Museum of Illusions. This astonishing museum offers you an exceptional experience full of fun moments.
It includes a number of rooms with different visual and sensory illusions. Not just that, you will experience different mind and visual tricks that will amaze you.
It’s endless fun there for all ages, making it a perfect spot for families and friends too.
Location
It’s located in Al Seef, Dubai Creek, Dubai.
Highlights
- This famous museum in the UAE hosts up to 60 different exhibits.
Tickets
- AED 22.5 (16 and above)
- AED 19 (5 – 15)
Opening Hours
- Monday – Thursday: 10 am – 10 pm
- Friday – Sunday: 10 am – 11 pm
Contact Information
- +971 (0)4 357 3999
- info@museumofillusions.ae
3. Coffee Museum
Here is the hidden gem for all the coffee lovers out there; Dubai Coffee Museum is a distinct one in Dubai. It’s where you will have the chance to explore the different old ways of preparing Arabian and international coffee.
You will feel the vintage vibes as the museum has a classic setting and atmosphere. You shouldn’t leave without trying the various tasteful flavours of coffee they serve.
Heading there is one of the top free things to do in Dubai so it’s a budget friendly choice.
Location
It’s located at Villa 44, off Al Fahidi street, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Dubai.
Highlights
- The museum includes the tools used in the past in preparing coffee.
Prices
Free entry
Opening Hours
- 9 am – 5 pm daily
- Fridays: off
Contact Information
+971 (0)4 353 8777
4. Etihad Museum
The Etihad Museum is among the most popular museums in UAE; it’s where you can discover and know more about the UAE’s culture, rulers, society, political, scientific, and military history.
You will find everything related to the old periods of such a great country; visiting the Etihad Museum is a great opportunity to witness the birth of such a marvellous country and see how it evolved over the years.
Location
It’s located on Jumeirah street, Al Mina, Dubai.
Highlights
- The museum includes different pavilions, each one displaying interesting historical information and items.
Prices
- AED 25/adult
- AED 10/student.
Opening Hours
10 am – 8 pm daily
Contact Information
- 800 33222
- Etihad.Museum@dubaiculture.ae
5. Bait Al Banat Women’s Museum
Women always have a role in society during the different historical periods of the UAE and till now; Bait Al Banat Women’s Museum honours and highlights the Emirati and Arab women’s efforts and creativity.
It contains various display halls, including different pieces of art by amazing ladies. This gem will help girls and women to develop their talents and explore new fields to unlock their potential.
Location
It’s located on Al Khor street, Deira, Dubai.
Highlights
- It has a centre for women which is home to a big library of various studies by women of the UAE and the rest of the Arab world.
Prices
- AED 20/person
Opening Hours
- 10 am – 5:30 pm daily
- Fridays: off
Contact Information
+971 (0)4 234 2342
6. Museum of the Poet Al Oqaili
If you’re interested in poetry and poets’ life, then you shouldn’t miss visiting the Museum of the Poet Al Oqaili. It includes old manuscripts and original documents including his poems in his own handwriting.
Besides, you are going to see the poet’s majlis, belongings, and old furniture. The museum’s architecture is picturesque, leaving you astonished. It’s among the museums in UAE with free entry, making it a nice and costless option.
Location
It’s located on Sikka 26A street, Al Ras, Dubai.
Highlights
- The museum is the old vintage house of Poet Al Oqaili.
Prices
Free entry
Opening Hours
- Monday – Thursday: 8 am – 3 pm
- Friday: 8 am – 11:30 am
- Saturdays & Sundays: off.
Contact Information
800 33222
7. Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House
Have you ever wondered how the ruler of the iconic Dubai first lived? It’s an exciting thing to know indeed; this is where you will find all the answers.
It’s the home of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum, the first ruler of Dubai, which includes a wide collection of articrafts, jewellery, old currency, paintings, stamps, and many more interesting items.
Visiting such a historical museum is the best way to know how kings lived in the past; it’s exhilarating!
Location
It’s located off Infinity Brg road, Al Fahidi, Dubai.
Highlights
- It’s considered among the heritage museums in UAE as it was built in 1896.
Prices
- AED 15 (above 24)
- AED 5 ( 5 – 24)
- Kids under 5: free
Opening Hours
- Saturday – Thursday: 8 am – 8:30 pm
- Fridays: 3 pm – 8:30 pm
Contact Information
+971 (0)4 515 5336
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Abu Dhabi
1. Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum
For all the art lovers and enthusiasts, this one must be on your to-go list. The Louvre Abu Dhabi museum is not only among the well-known museums in UAE but also one of the top attractions in Abu Dhabi.
It’s home to up to 9,200 art galleries and exhibitions, including numerous artistic works by different artists. Besides, the museum is exclusively bringing loan pieces from recognizable French museums like Musee Du Louvre and Centre Pompidou.
Don’t miss this chance and go enrich your soul.
Location
It’s located off Jacques Chirac street, Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi.
Highlights
- It has an outstanding building design that will take your breath away; it’s surrounded by the blue waters of the Arabian Gulf, making it look incredibly amazing.
- There’s a cafe inside the museum where you can grab a snack or drink while resting.
Prices
- AED 63/adult
- AED 31 (13 – 22)
Kids under 13: free
Opening Hours
- 10 am – 6:30 pm daily,
- Mondays: off
Contact Information
+971 (0)60 056 5566
2. Emirates National Auto Museum
Do you love cars? If yes, then Emirates National Auto Museum will be your favourite one. It displays different collections of vintage cars. You will find very old models of your favourite car brands like Jeep, Mercedes, and Dodge.
Besides, it’s a very interesting experience as you are going to see car models from the old centuries; it’s surely a super exciting museum to visit in the UAE.
Location
It’s located off Hamim road, Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi.
Highlights
- It includes car models from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Prices
- AED 50/person
- Kids under 10: free
Opening Hours
9 am – 5 pm
Contact Information
+971 (0)50 279 2620
3. Al Ain Palace Museum
How about going to one of the most important museums in the UAE? This sounds interesting. Al Ain Palace Museum was the home of the UAE’s founder and first president of the country, the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
You will see how the ruling family was living and the cultural aspects back then, including their belongings, rooms, and much more. It feels like going back in time while exploring Al Ain Palace museum.
Location
It’s located on Al Ain street, Central District, Abu Dhabi.
Highlights
- The museum’s architecture resembles the ancient Arabian style with spacious green areas around.
Prices
Free entry
Opening Hours
- Saturday – Thursday: 10 am – 6 pm
- Friday: 2 pm – 6 pm
Contact Information
+971 (0)3 711 8388
4. Zayed Heritage Centre
Zayed Heritage Centre is your ultimate spot to have a look at the history of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of UAE. This historical museum is home to numerous photos for Sheikh Zayed during international and national visits.
In addition, you will see some of the gifts he received from all over the world. The museum also includes some of his own vehicles. It’s a nice spot to see the belongings of such a legend.
Location
It’s located in Baynounah street, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi.
Highlights
- The museum looks like an Emirati heritage village as its interiors are inspired by the Emirati culture.
Prices
- AED 60/person
Opening Hours
- Monday – Friday: 7:30 am – 3:30 pm
- Saturdays & Sundays: off
Contact Information
+971 (0)2 665 9555
5. Abu Dhabi Heritage Village
How about going on a trip to the old UAE? It sounds very interesting. Abu Dhabi Heritage Village offers you such an experience. You will see unique items like stone huts, palm leaf houses, and bedouin tents.
Not just that, you are going to know about the Emirati traditions. This destination is full of unique things to see and witness about the UAE heritage.
Location
It’s located on Alam street, Al Marina, Abu Dhabi.
Highlights
- It includes local shops from where you can buy some souvenirs and traditional items like handmade soap, clothes, and jewellery.
- The making of various handcrafts is also displayed there like pottery, weaving, metal work, and more.
Prices
Free entry
Opening Hours
- Saturday – Thursday: 9 am – 4 pm
- Friday: 7:30 am – 12 pm, 3:30 pm – 9 pm
Contact Information
+971 (0)2 681 4455
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Sharjah
1. Sharjah Natural History and Botanical Museum
Are you interested in plants and animals and want to explore their different species? If yes, just head to this awesome museum in Sharjah.
Here, you will know about the ecosystem and species in the Arabian Peninsula in detail. Besides, it includes a wonderful botanical garden which is home to up to 100 species of native plants.
This enables you to see many types of astonishing flowers and plants for the first time. This one is a good choice if you’re going with your kids as they will love seeing animals and touring the garden.
Location
It’s located in Desert Park, Sheikh Zayed street, Sharjah.
Highlights
- Visitors have the chance to see old fossils, meteorites, and preserved rare animals.
Prices
- AED 15/person.
Opening Hours
- Saturday – Thursday: 9 am – 6:30 pm, except Tuesday is off.
- Fridays: 2 pm – 6:30 pm
Contact Information
+971 (0)6 503 8000
2. Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization is the ultimate destination to know everything about such a great civilization. It’s among the notable museums in the UAE.
You will feel impressed once you see its beautifully designed building which is inspired by the stunning Islamic architecture. You will also have the chance to explore new information about the inventions, discoveries, and lives of Muslim scholars in the past.
It’s time to know about one of the most significant civilizations in history.
Location
It’s located on Corniche street, Al Nabba, Sharjah.
Highlights
- It displays thousands of distinct artefacts, belonging to the Islamic civilization from the 1st century AH (7 AD) to the 14th century AH (20 AD).
- The museum is divided into various galleries and each one includes different historic items.
Prices
- AED 5/person
- Kids under 13: free
Opening Hours
- 10 am – 6 pm daily
- Fridays: off
Contact Information
+971(0)6 565 5455
3. Sharjah Archeology Museum
How about knowing how life in the UAE was since the stone age? This is incredibly thrilling! Sharjah Archaeology Museum gives you the chance to know very interesting information about the lifestyle of the old UAE residents.
Through the different halls of the museum you will find the tools, clothes, and various belongings used back then. In addition, you can closely see the old tombs and houses from 2500 years ago. Don’t miss visiting such a unique spot!
Location
It’s located on Sheikh Rashid Bin Saqr Al Qasimi street, Al Abar, Sharjah.
Highlights
- It’s divided into different halls with each displaying a specific period: Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Greater Arabia.
Prices
- AED 10/adult
- AED 5/kid ( 2 – 12)
- Kids under 2: free
Opening Hours
- Saturday – Tuesday: 8 am – 8 pm
- Fridays: 4 pm – 8 pm
Contact Information
+971 (0)6 566 5466
4. Sharjah Calligraphy Museum
Sharjah Calligraphy Museum is the first of its kind in the Arab region that is only devoted to calligraphy. It’s a good place for art lovers to get inspired by the amazing works displayed there.
You will see the history of calligraphy from the Kufic scripts reaching the more fluid styles in painting. It’s among the beautiful and unique arts that reflect the Arabic culture and identity of the UAE.
Location
It’s located in Al Shioukh, Sharjah.
Prices
- AED 5/person
Opening Hours
- Saturday – Tuesday: 8 am – 8 pm
- Fridays: 4 pm – 8 pm
Contact Information
+971 (0)6 569 4561
5. Sharjah Heritage Museum
If you are curious about Sharjah and its residents in the past, then you should visit Sharjah Heritage Museum. You’re going to know a lot about the emirate’s heritage, culture, resident’s lifestyle, traditions, and customs.
Besides, they’re offering you a friendly atmosphere through a series of folklore tales and old sayings to feel the vibe. You will also experience the unique traits of the Emirati people and their ways of celebration as well as hospitality.
Location
It’s located in Al Shioukh, Sharjah.
Prices
- AED 10/person
- AED 5/kid (2 – 12)
- Kids under 2: free
Opening Hours
- Saturday – Thursday: 8 am – 8 pm
- Fridays: 4 pm – 8 pm
Contact Information
+971 (0)6 568 0006
6. Sharjah Maritime Museum
The sea had a great influence on the UAE’s economy in the old periods. The museum displays distinct information about Sharjah’s marine history.
You are going to know about their old fishing methods, how they extract pearls through diving, and their trade trips to get different products. Besides, get ready to see the ancient wooden seafaring dhows, which were used in fishing.
Location
It’s located off Corniche Road, Al Khan, Sharjah.
Highlights
- The museum is home to an astonishing selection of Arabian pearls; they were collected from the Gulf’s blue waters and still have the same shine and glamour.
Prices
- AED 10/person
- AED 5/kid (2 – 12)
- Kids under 2: free
Opening Hours
- Saturday – Thursday: 8 am – 8 pm
- Fridays: 4 pm – 8 pm
Contact Information
+971 (0)6 522 2002
7. Sharjah Classic Car Museum
If you’re a Sharjah resident and car enthusiast, Sharjah Classic Car Museum is a real heaven for you. It’s home to a great collection of about 100 classic car models since 1915, which is an exhilarating thing to witness nowadays.
You should plan a visit to this outstanding museum soon, as many tempting car models like Rolls Royce, Ford Bentley, and more are waiting for you.
Location
It’s on Airport Road, Sharjah.
Highlights
- The museum is divided into 4 sections, each featuring a historical stage of the automotive industry’s development.
- As a visitor, you can discover various car engines and their functions too.
Prices
- AED 10/person
- AED 5/kid ( 2 – 12)
- Kids under 2: free
Opening Hours
- Saturday – Thursday: 8 am – 8 pm
- Fridays: 4 pm – 8 pm
Contact Information
+971 (0)6 558 0222
8. Sharjah Science Museum
Science lessons might be boring, but interactive activities are surely not. Sharjah Science Museum is the first to offer its visitors friendly and engaging scientific activities.
It’s an ideal one, especially for families as the little ones will love the different interactive games there.
Location
It’s located off Sheikh Rashid Bin Saqr Al Qasimi street, Al Abar, Halawan, Sharjah.
Highlights
- It opened in 1996, aiming to be an interesting spot for science enthusiasts from all ages. That’s why it provides interactive exhibits to its visitors.
Prices
- AED 10/person
- AED 5/kid ( 2 – 12)
- Kids under 2: free
Opening Hours
- Saturday – Thursday: 8 am – 8 pm
- Fridays: 4 pm – 8 pm
Contact Information
+971 (0)6 566 877
9. Sharjah Art Museum
Last but not least, Sharjah Art Museum comes among the top museums in the UAE. It’s a hub for various works of art by Arab and international artists. You will get fascinated by their wonderful pieces which are inspired by the region’s culture and history.
You’re going to have a lot of fun there in such an artistic atmosphere.
Location
It’s located in Arts Square, Al Shuwaiheen, Sharjah.
Highlights
- It’s hosting a gallery called A Century in Flux till May 31, 2023. This gallery features a selection of paintings, media artworks, and sculptures by modernists.
Prices
Free entry
Opening Hours
- Saturday – Thursday: 8 am – 8 pm
- Fridays: 4 pm – 8 pm
Contact Information
+971 (0)6 568 8222
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You have a list of the best museums in the UAE including their ticket price, opening hours, and locations; now you can easily choose the ones you are interested in and plan for the visit without any hassle.
