Abu Dhabi is gearing up for a cultural extravaganza this winter with the grand opening of the Natural History Museum on November 22, 2025. Located in the vibrant Saadiyat Cultural District, this architectural marvel spans 35,000 square meters and emerges from the waters of Saadiyat Island like a natural rock formation. Designed by the acclaimed firm Mecanoo, the museum’s design mirrors its mission to connect visitors with the natural world and inspire future generations to explore and protect it. The museum promises an immersive journey through 13.8 billion years of Earth’s history, from the Big Bang to the evolution of life, including the rise and fall of dinosaurs. Among its star attractions are ‘Stan,’ a nearly complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton; a 25-meter female blue whale specimen; and the Murchison Meteorite, which contains grains older than our solar system. The museum also highlights the Arabian Peninsula’s natural history, featuring discoveries like the extinct Stegotetrabelodon emiratus elephant. Permanent galleries such as The Story of Earth and Resilient Planet, alongside interactive experiences, offer a comprehensive exploration of our planet’s past, present, and future. To celebrate its launch, the museum will host two temporary exhibitions: The March of the Triceratops and the 61st Wildlife Photographer of the Year. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi, emphasized the museum’s role in shaping the emirate’s cultural landscape and fostering scientific knowledge. The Natural History Museum joins other iconic institutions like Louvre Abu Dhabi and the upcoming Zayed National Museum, solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position as a global cultural hub.
Abu Dhabi: Natural History Museum to open on November 22 with 67 million-year-old T-rex
