Today's Edition
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
The selection of Zayed National Museum for TIME magazine’s prestigious list of the World’s Greatest Places marks a defining moment for the cultural landscape of Abu Dhabi and the wider Middle East.
This annual compendium, which identifies 100 extraordinary destinations across the globe, serves as a definitive guide to the most inspiring, innovative, and culturally significant locations on the planet.
The museum joins a select group of landmarks, standing as one of only two destinations in the Middle East and among three from the entire Middle East and North Africa region for the year. In addition to an open application procedure, TIME’s global network of correspondents and contributors make selections.
Situated in the heart of Saadiyat Cultural District, the museum has quickly become a major attraction for residents and international visitors alike since it opened its doors on December 3 last year.
The architectural silhouette of the museum, conceived by the Pritzker Prize-winning architect Lord Norman Foster of Foster + Partners, has already become a popular feature of the city’s skyline. The structure is famously inspired by the wings of a falcon in flight, a symbol deeply woven into the fabric of Emirati identity.
The museum’s deep link to Emirati heritage and an engaging narrative within the walls have been appreciated by visitors in the past three months.
Maitha Alnaqbi described her experience as “a living timeline” in which the history of the UAE unfolds across several historical periods. She said: “The Zayed Museum unfolded like a living timeline, revealing the rich story of the UAE across its eras. I was especially drawn to the maritime displays, where the rhythm of the sea echoed my roots in Khorfakkan, gently tied to the tides. Walking through those spaces and recognising fragments of my own heritage felt quietly beautiful and deeply personal.”
Inside, the museum offers a sweeping narrative that traces 300,000 years of human history in the region. It remembers the life and enduring legacy of the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, through a series of six permanent galleries, an expansive outdoor gallery, and a dedicated space for temporary exhibitions.
This sense of personal connection is a recurring theme among those who have explored the galleries. The museum is not merely a repository of objects but a space that fosters a sense of belonging and pride.
“It felt like a personal journey through my own culture and heritage,” said Mariam Ali. “Every exhibit deepened my understanding of the customs and principles that define our identity. I came away feeling motivated, proud, and more conscious of how crucial it is to preserve and tell our story.”
This establishment of a connection to the roots for the citizens is achieved through a carefully curated collection of remarkable artefacts that highlight the depth of the region’s history.
Among the most significant items on display is the Abu Dhabi Pearl, recognised as one of the oldest natural pearls in the world, and the Blue Quran, which is regarded as one of the most exquisite manuscripts in the history of Islamic art.
One of the most striking installations within the museum is the full-scale reconstruction of an ancient Magan Boat. This centrepiece is the result of an ambitious research partnership involving Zayed University and New York University Abu Dhabi, representing a feat of experimental archaeology that brings the maritime prowess of the Bronze Age to life.
The boat serves as a powerful reminder of the UAE’s long-standing connection to global trade and the sea. Aisha Alhashimi said: “I was really impressed by the Magan Boat, as it beautifully reflects the UAE’s rich maritime history. I also loved the traditional men’s cultural dance, it was lively, vibrant and full of cultural spirit.
“The falcon-inspired design of the museum added a unique and memorable touch to the visit,” she added, praising the lively traditional performances and interactive features.
The recognition by TIME magazine reflects the museum’s success in offering the kind of distinctive and inventive experiences that the World’s Greatest Places list seeks to celebrate. The selection process for the list is rigorous, involving nominations from international experts alongside an open application procedure, ensuring that only the most exceptional and one-of-a-kind places are featured.
The Zayed National Museum is a place where history is not just observed but felt. The stories told within its walls – from the ancient inhabitants of the desert to the formation of a modern federation – provide a comprehensive understanding of the Emirati spirit.
For the international traveller, it offers a window into a culture of hospitality and wisdom; for the local community, it is a mirror reflecting their own roots and the foundations of their future.
