SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
Louvre Abu Dhabi is inspiring children to explore art, history and culture through interactive exhibitions, educational programmes and immersive experiences, instilling in them a lifelong appreciation for learning and culture from an early age.
In an interview with Aletihad, Aysha Al Dhaheri – Academic & Community Engagement Unit Head at Louvre Abu Dhabi, said the museum engages young people by making them active participants in its experiences.
“Direct encounters with artworks and objects give young visitors opportunities to explore stories from different cultures and periods of history, supported by interpretation that makes these stories engaging, relevant and accessible," she said.
She explained that the Children's Museum plays a central role in this approach. School programmes, Family Weekends, After School Activities, seasonal camps, as well as creative initiatives further encourage children to explore different cultures and express their ideas.
“Across these programmes, we encourage young audiences to observe, ask questions, exchange ideas and make their own connections with art and culture,” Al Dhaheri added.
She emphasised that introducing children to art and culture from an early age helps broaden their understanding of the world while strengthening creativity and critical thinking.
“These experiences help build a lifelong appreciation for learning and culture, while encouraging young people to value both their own heritage and the diversity of the world around,” she said.
Beyond engaging children, the museum seeks to make its educational and cultural programmes accessible to diverse communities across the UAE.
Its initiatives cater to families, school and university students, people of determination, senior citizens and lifelong learners through exhibitions, public programmes, and community outreach.
Al Dhaheri said inclusive sensory experiences, multilingual resources and adaptable learning approaches help accommodate different abilities and interests, while partnerships extend the museum's reach beyond its galleries.
“Technology supports this approach where it adds value, but the artworks, human connection, educational purpose and cultural meaning remain at the heart of every experience,” she said.
Meanwhile, Louvre Abu Dhabi continues to introduce experiences that combine history, storytelling, technology and play.
“A Board Game Adventure at the Children’s Museum invites families to discover how play has connected people across cultures and centuries,” Al Dhaheri said.
Running until April 2027, the exhibition features 24 objects spanning more than 5,000 years, including examples from ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia.
The exhibition explores the history of games such as chess, mancala, ludo and carrom, with connected wristbands allowing children to participate in personalised digital activities.
Families can also enjoy Storytelling Tours, Family Weekends and The Secret of the Dome Stars, which transforms the museum's permanent galleries into a digital adventure.
The Quantum Dome Project takes visitors on immersive virtual reality journeys through Imperial Rome, mediaeval Baghdad and Mughal India.
For visitors aged 13 and above, Art in Scents offers a sensory exploration of selected artworks through specially created fragrances.
The Louvre Abu Dhabi Architectural Experience introduces visitors to the story behind the museum's iconic dome and design.
"Together, these attractions offer different ways to engage with Louvre Abu Dhabi’s collection, architecture and stories, through play, storytelling, technology, the senses and immersive exploration," Al Dhaheri added.