Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi (anyone under 18 years go free)

Journey through time exploring dinosaurs, oceans, planets, and evolution.

The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi is a groundbreaking, 35,000 sqm cultural landmark located in Saadiyat Cultural District. Designed by Mecanoo, the museum invites visitors on an extraordinary journey through 13.8 billion years of natural history—told through an Arabian lens.

Inside, visitors encounter rare meteorites, iconic dinosaur fossils, immersive galleries, and scientifically accurate recreations of prehistoric landscapes. The museum houses 18 permanent galleries, interactive media experiences, educational labs, and globally significant specimens—including one of the world’s finest Tyrannosaurus rex fossils, a complete Brachiosaurus, a 25-metre blue whale skeleton, and the famous 4.5-billion-year-old Murchison Meteorite.

More than a museum, it is a global research centre advancing studies in palaeontology, biodiversity, planetary sciences, and sustainability. Through special exhibitions, AR experiences, scientific labs, guided tours, and creative family programmes, the museum inspires curiosity and deepens our understanding of the natural world—past, present, and future.

Highlights

• 18 immersive galleries & experiences spanning Earth’s story, dinosaurs, human evolution, Arabian biodiversity, and cosmic origins. • World-class hero specimens, including: • One of the world’s most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons • A rare Brachiosaurus, centerpiece of the Jurassic Atrium • A 25 m Blue Whale skeleton • The 4.5-billion-year-old Murchison Meteorite containing the building blocks of life • The Stegotetrabelodon emiratus tusk found in Abu Dhabi • Cutting-edge labs: Palaeo Lab & Life Sciences Lab with real scientific work visible to visitors. • Interactive digital experiences including AR tools and immersive media installations. • Family programmes: fossil-making, story hours, scavenger hunts, colouring activities and more. • Temporary exhibitions such as March of the Triceratops and Wildlife Photographer of the Year. • Architectural marvel by Mecanoo featuring hanging gardens, wadi-inspired pathways, and sustainable design principles.

What's included in the ticket

• Entry to all permanent galleries & exhibitions • Access to temporary exhibitions (subject to scheduling) • Use of digital & interactive displays • Access to public events, activities, and community experiences (when available) • Admission to Palaeo Lab and Life Sciences Lab viewing areas

Exclusions

• Guided tours (public, private, or VIP) unless booked separately • Workshops, educational programmes, and school tours unless included in a package • Food & beverages at the on-site café • Merchandise from the museum gift shop • Transportation and parking fees • Any paid special events not included in general admission

Kids Go Free offer:

• Children below 18 years are eligible for complimentary tickets • UAE based seniors aged 60 and above are complimentary

Important things to know before your visit

• The museum spans 35,000 sqm—comfortable footwear is recommended. • Family-friendly attraction with activities suitable for all ages. • Photography is generally allowed, but some specimens or exhibitions may have restrictions. • Large bags may be subject to security checks; lockers may be available. • Several galleries include low lighting, sound effects, or immersive environments. • Wheelchair accessible, offering inclusive routes and accessibility services. • During peak seasons (especially exhibitions), advance ticket purchase is recommended.

How to get there

Location: Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE By Car: • From Abu Dhabi City: approx. 15–20 minutes via Sheikh Khalifa Highway. • From Dubai: approx. 1 hour via E11/Sheikh Zayed Road. • Paid and free parking options are usually available on-site or nearby. By Taxi: • Taxis are widely available; simply request drop-off at “Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Cultural District”. By Public Transport: • Bus services may connect to Saadiyat Island depending on season and city scheduling. • Visitors typically combine public bus + taxi for final leg. By Ride-hailing Apps: • Careem and Uber operate widely throughout Abu Dhabi.