These historical and cultural gems are opening their doors for free for a weekend of discovery in the UAE
Ready to immerse yourself in history, heritage, and art without spending a dirham?
This weekend, 18 May, marks International Museum Day, and the UAE is rolling out the red carpet for culture lovers with free entry to top museums across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah!
Do you see yourself as an art aficionado, history buff, or just looking for an inspiring way to escape the heat?
Well, these cultural gems are opening their doors, absolutely free, for a weekend of discovery.
Dubai
Celebrate International Museum Day at Expo City Dubai! Relive our legacy with free access to the Expo 2020 Dubai Museum; soar sky-high with complimentary entry to Garden in the Sky; and for just AED 25, unlock Terra, Alif and Vision for a day packed with wonder, discovery and… pic.twitter.com/NL8NcigHPt
— Expo City Dubai (@expocitydubai) May 7, 2025
Get ready for a journey through innovation at Expo 2020 Dubai Museum, and don’t miss the stunning views from Garden in the Sky, both offering free access on 17 and 18 May.
Expo 2020 Museum: 10am to 8pm
Garden in the Sky: 2pm to 10pm
Abu Dhabi
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If Louvre Abu Dhabi has been on your bucket list, this is your moment! On Saturday, 18 May, all UAE residents can enjoy free entry; just bring your valid Emirates ID and dive into one of the most iconic art collections in the world, right on Saadiyat Island.
You might also like: The ultimate guide to all the top things to do on Al Hudayriyat Island in 2025
Year-round free cultural hotspots
Looking for a culture fix beyond the weekend? The UAE is home to several free-entry museums and galleries all year long:
Dubai
Jameel Arts Centre – contemporary art by the waterfront
Coffee Museum – A cosy journey through coffee culture
Dubai Police Museum – Requires a permit (apply via Dubai Police website or app)
Al Oqaili House – A poetic heritage home built in 1923, nestled in Deira’s Spice Souk
Abu Dhabi
Manarat Al Saadiyat – A vibrant art and cultural hub
Cultural Foundation – presents a series of exhibitions and shows
Bassam Freiha Art Foundation – Stunning private collection open to the public
Heritage Village – Step back in time to old-world Emirates
Miraj Islamic Art Centre – A showcase of Islamic artistry from across the globe
Sharjah
Sharjah Art Museum – A cornerstone of the region’s art scene with rotating exhibitions
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