GUGGENHEIM ABU DHABI & MORE
For architecture and culture enthusiasts, Abu Dhabi—a dazzling capital of the UAE and the largest of its seven emirates—offers an impressive array of attractions. The city stands as a vibrant testament to innovative design and cultural diversity, promising an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
Skyscrapers in Abu Dhabi, UAE
At the forefront of this cultural renaissance is the Berklee Abu Dhabi, a branch of Boston’s prestigious Berklee College of Music. Designed by Foster + Partners, this institution is celebrated globally for its focus on music, dance, and theatre, making it a focal point for creatives in the region.
Adjacent to Berklee is the flourishing Saadiyat Cultural District, a hub of artistic vitality. Home to the breathtaking Louvre Abu Dhabi, the first satellite museum of the revered French institution, it was designed by architect Jean Nouvel. The culturally rich district also features the remarkable Abrahamic Family House, a trio of sacred buildings—a mosque, a church, and a temple—crafted by Sir David Adjaye to symbolize interfaith dialogue.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Visitors can further explore the Saadiyat Cultural District at Manarat Al Saadiyat, a contemporary art gallery hosting pivotal events like the Culture Summit Abu Dhabi. Recently, the district welcomed TeamLab Phenomena, an immersive art installation from the Japanese collective, designed by MZ Architects.
One of a trio of buildings at Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District
Exciting plans for the future include the Zayed National Museum, celebrating UAE history with designs by Foster + Partners, and the National History Museum Abu Dhabi, developed by the Dutch architects Mecanoo. Also, the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, the largest among the Guggenheim galleries, designed by Canadian architect Frank Gehry, promises to bolster Abu Dhabi’s artistic stature.
Abu Dhabi is further establishing itself as a cultural hub with the inaugural Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial, launched in November 2024. Showcasing 70 artists from the UAE and around the globe, the event created a captivating discourse through publicly accessible installations and performances across significant locations, such as the Corniche and local parks.
The inaugural Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial 2024–2025
Among the city’s must-visit attractions is the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, which attracted a staggering 6.5 million visitors last year, with over 80% from abroad. This architectural wonder has been the world’s largest mosque since its official opening in 2007, and entry remains free for everyone.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre
Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island has become a buzzing hub of entertainment and sports, featuring attractions like Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and various thrilling activities at the Yas Marina Circuit, which hosts the annual F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Warner Bros. World at Yas Island
Yas Waterworld is gearing up for an expansion with 18 new rides and 3.3 kilometers of slide sections slated for completion later this year. The island also boasts diverse accommodations, including the WB Abu Dhabi, recognized as the world’s first Warner Bros-themed hotel, replete with entertainment facilities like a dive-in movie theater and kids club.
For additional insights on travel to Abu Dhabi, visit VisitAbuDhabi.ae.
