Free tickets, workshops and more
Abu Dhabi is opening the doors to some of its biggest museums, cultural landmarks, and heritage sites this International Museum Day, with free entry running Saturday, 16 to Monday, 18 May across the emirate.
From the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum to Al Ain’s UNESCO-listed cultural sites, the weekend is packed with guided tours, family workshops, performances, creative activities, and hands-on experiences for all ages.
So, whether you’re planning a full cultural day out, looking for something educational with the kids, or simply want to finally visit that museum you’ve been meaning to explore, this is easily one of the best weekends of the month to do it.
How to get free tickets for the Abu Dhabi museums this weekend
While entry is completely free across participating museums and cultural institutions, pre-registration is strongly recommended for some venues, especially the major museums on Saadiyat Island.
The teams behind the event have confirmed that visitors can still arrive and queue for walk-in entry, but they should expect waiting times during busy periods.
Several museums, including Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, and Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, now have International Museum Day ticket options available directly through their official ticketing pages where visitors can reserve free admission in advance.
If you’re planning to visit over the weekend, booking ahead is definitely the smoother option.
What else is happening at the museums this weekend?
Louvre Abu Dhabi
16-18 May, Saadiyat Cultural District
One of the biggest highlights of the weekend, Louvre Abu Dhabi is offering free access to its galleries alongside a packed schedule of tours and family-friendly activities.
Visitors can explore permanent exhibitions spanning cultures and centuries, while free thematic tours will also take place throughout the day, including tours focused on the Picasso Exhibition.
Free activities include:
- Thematic guided gallery tours
- Picasso Exhibition tours
- Children’s workshops (11am–3pm)
For further information, visit louvreabudhabi.ae
Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi
16-18 May, Saadiyat Cultural District
Perfect for families and curious minds, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi is turning International Museum Day into a fully interactive experience.
The museum will host a series of hands-on workshops inspired by science, creativity, and the natural world.
Activities include:
- Build a mini exhibit
- Sun printing activity
- Light lab
- Wiggly creatures workshop
Expect a mix of educational fun, creative experimentation, and immersive learning experiences throughout the weekend.
For further information, visit nhmad.ae
Zayed National Museum
16-18 May, Saadiyat Cultural District
Visitors can explore the stories, heritage, and identity of the UAE through performances, family activities, and interactive programmes taking place across the museum.
Activities include:
- Majlis of Stories
- Traditional performances
- Bracelet-making workshops
- Family scavenger hunts
- Interactive cultural activities for all ages
Visitors are strongly encouraged to reserve free tickets in advance through the museum’s website.
For further information, visit zayednationalmuseum.ae
Cultural Foundation
18 May, 4pm–6pm, Al Hosn Site
Children can join an interactive guided journey exploring how the Cultural Foundation operates behind the scenes.
The experience introduces younger visitors to the different roles and spaces that bring the institution to life.
For further information, visit tickets.culturalfoundation.ae
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Qasr Al Hosn
Al Hosn Site, 17 May, 9am–6pm
Qasr Al Hosn is hosting a special ‘Children’s Takeover’ experience where younger visitors can step into real museum roles for the day.
Activities include:
- Cultural tour guiding
- Photography roles
- Ticketing experiences
- Gift shop assistant experiences
The activation is designed for children aged 10 and above.
For further information, visit alhosn.ae
Manarat Al Saadiyat
18 May, 6pm–8pm, Saadiyat Cultural District
Visitors can join an immersive guided video-walk experience led by Emirati content creator Zayed Al Haddar.
The experience reimagines Saadiyat Cultural District as a connected cultural pathway, blending storytelling, visuals, and live exploration.
For further information, visit manaratalsaadiyat.ae
Al Ain Museum
16–18 May, 9am–7pm, Al Ain
One of the UAE’s most important heritage museums, Al Ain Museum is hosting a full schedule of family-focused activities throughout the weekend.
Activities include:
- Guided tours
- Discovery activities
- Interactive family programmes
For further information, visit alainmuseum.ae
Al Maqta’a Museum
18 May, 10am–3pm, Abu Dhabi
Designed specifically for university students, Al Maqta’a Museum is offering a behind-the-scenes look at careers in the cultural sector.
The programme includes:
- Interactive practical experiences
- Q&A sessions
- Discussion panels
- Participation certificates
- Volunteer hours
For further information, visit abudhabiculture.ae
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