Zayed Center

Posted by Lau

The Zayed Center in Al Bateen

The Zayed center is a museum dedicated to the life of HH the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

A new museum is set to be built on Saadiyat Island in the coming years, designed by one of my favourite architects, Lord Norman Foster and partners, but for the time being, this museum in Al Bateen is a great place where to go to learn more about this visionary leader.

Where it is : Al Bateen: coming from the Corniche, pass the Intercontinental Hotel, and after the Central Bank of the UAE it is the second road on the right. On Google maps it appears to be just in front of something called Belevari Marinas and next to something called the House of Poetry Abu Dhabi.
How much: FREE Entry.
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday: From 8am to 3pm. Friday/Saturday: Closed.
Guided tours in English and Arabic are available, however you need to book at least one week in advance.
Tel: +971 2 665 9555

Click to enlarge map.

We had been passing by this centre countless times, when going out in Al Bateen, but never managed to go and visit. Finally we succeeded during this Christmas break, and we are very glad we did!

The museum, which is in a beautiful traditional building, houses a photographic collection narrating the life of HH Sheikh Zayed, from personal family moments to his many encounters with heads of state from all around the world.

At the entrance of the museum.

The museum houses a large photographic collection.

One of my favourites among the photos exhibited.

The building has beautiful stained glass windows.

HH Sheikh Zayed with HH Queen Elizabeth II.

Photographic book with private and public photos.

In a huge room at the heart of the building are also collected personal objects, such as his hunting rifles, precious vehicles he owned, and gifts sent to him from many different countries, including a majestic stuffed lion.

The main hall of the museum.

Exhibited are also luxury cars…

… and a lion!

Car exhibition outside the museum.

Outside are also parked some of his off-road cars, and from the back of the museum there is also a spectacular view on Abu Dhabi and the water, offering many photo opportunities.

This museum is a great place where to learn more about HH Sheikh Zayed and a beautiful place for a day out. We will definitely make sure to visit again!