ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
To mark International Museum Day, Louvre Abu Dhabi is offering visitors free entry from May 16 to 18, inviting the public to enjoy three days of art, learning and culture at the world-class museum in the Saadiyat Cultural District.
This weekend, visitors can explore its galleries and artworks that span cultures, geographies and centuries, through guided tours, workshops, film screenings and other activities designed for all ages.
This year’s International Museum Day theme, “Museums Uniting a Divided World”, reflects the role of museums in bringing people together through culture and storytelling.
Over the three days, discover a rich programme of experiences designed to engage with art in meaningful ways. Visitors are advised to pre-book to skip the queue.
Guided Tours
Times: 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm and 4.30pm
Location: Permanent Galleries and Picasso Exhibition
Visitors can join the free thematic guided tours throughout the weekend, exploring the museum’s collections, exhibitions, narrative and architecture.
Children and family workshops
Times: 11am and 3pm
Enjoy hands-on creative activities for children and families all weekend.
The Pulse of Time
Monday, May 18
Every hour, 11am–5pm (alternating in English and Arabic)
Location: Auditorium
A 40-minute film exploring Louvre Abu Dhabi’s collection and loaned works, telling a story of humanity through time. Through poetic narration, artworks from different civilisations are brought to life.
Inside the Lab: A Scientific Demonstration
Monday, May 18
Times: 10.30am-12.30pm, 1pm-3pm, 3.30pm-5.30pm
Location: Museum galleries
Join the expert research and lab team for a series of live demonstrations offering insights into the science behind museum work. Discover how scientists study and preserve artworks through hands-on demonstrations using specialist tools and techniques.
Book an Easel
Sunday and Monday, May 17-18
Times: 1pm-4pm
Location: Under the dome
A workshop for adults inspired by artworks in the galleries. Led by a Museum Educator, participants visit the galleries and translate their favourite artworks into paintings.
Reading Corner: The Books of Louvre Abu Dhabi
Monday, May 18
Browse a curated selection of Louvre Abu Dhabi publications, while gaining an insight into the museum’s publishing process.
Listen and Learn
Bring your headphones and experience the museum’s architecture through a futuristic lens in a free self-guided audio walk under the dome.
Secret of the Dome Stars
Enjoy a free digital game for ages 6-12, where young explorers can solve puzzles, unlock secrets and connect with the museum’s collection in the permanent galleries (available in Arabic, English, French, Chinese and Russian).
Quantum Dome Project
Enjoy a virtual reality adventure that brings Louvre Abu Dhabi’s artworks to life in an immersive, interactive experience. Free for members and Fazaa card holders.
Film Screenings (Tickets Dh30)
Tune in for Cannes Film Nights on Saturday, May 16, at 7pm, presenting a curated selection of five screenings of world cinema classics.