Al Ain museum reopens: Ancient artefacts, diplomatic gifts; here’s what’s inside

The Al Ain Museum, a cornerstone of the UAE’s cultural heritage, has reopened its doors to the public, offering a fascinating journey through the nation’s history. Located in the Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the museum combines natural beauty with the historical significance of the Sultan Fort, making it a vital cultural and educational hub. Founded in 1969 by the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the museum initially opened with a temporary exhibition in the Sultan Fort before its official inauguration in 1971. Over the years, it expanded to include four exhibition halls, showcasing artifacts from various archaeological campaigns. The museum’s collection spans over 300,000 years, featuring Paleolithic tools, Iron Age artifacts, and diplomatic gifts from around the world. Among the highlights are a wooden model of the Dome of the Rock, a silver plate from Egypt, and gold ornaments from the Bronze Age. The museum also houses the Tower Tomb, a pre-Islamic burial site discovered during restoration works in 2018. With its grand reopening in 2025, the Al Ain Museum continues to serve as a bridge between the past and present, preserving the UAE’s rich heritage for future generations.