The Saadiyat Cultural District in Abu Dhabi is quickly becoming one of the world’s most exciting cultural hubs. Located on Saadiyat Island, this district is home to prestigious institutions like the Louvre Abu Dhabi it is part of the UAE’s broader vision for cultural and economic growth outlined in Vision 2030. Over the years I had the privilege of witnessing this transformation firsthand and it’s been incredible to see how far the district has come.

My Journey with Saadiyat: From 2017 to Today

I began my journey with Saadiyat in 2017 when the Louvre Abu Dhabi was still under construction. The iconic dome was taking shape and there was an undeniable excitement in the air as we eagerly anticipated its opening. On November 11, 2017, we opened the doors of the Louvre Abu Dhabi. I will always remember the joy when the first visitors walked in especially when the museum’s director Manuel Rabaté personally welcomed the first guests. It was a moment of immense pride, marking the beginning of Saadiyat’s transformation into a global cultural destination.

As the Louvre established itself as a key institution, the district continued to grow. On March 1, 2023, the Ibrahimic Family House opened its doors.
On April 18, 2025, TeamLab, the Japanese digital art collective, opened their immersive exhibition in Saadiyat. Their installations, blending art and technology have brought a new level of creativity to the island. It’s been exciting to see how their innovative exhibitions have captivated visitors and added a dynamic, interactive element to Saadiyat’s cultural scene.

Looking ahead, we have even more to look forward to. On December 3, 2025, the highly anticipated Zayed National Museum will open its doors, offering a deep dive into the life and legacy of the UAE’s founder Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. This museum will add another layer of depth to Saadiyat district’s cultural offerings.

On November 22, 2025, the Natural History Museum will open, providing a fascinating exploration of our planet’s history from ancient life to the present day. This museum will offer visitors a unique opportunity to connect with the natural world.
Meanwhile, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is still under construction, and I eagerly await its completion. When it opens, it will elevate Saadiyat even further reinforcing its status as a key player in the global art world.

Saadiyat is no longer just a place to visit, it is a place where art, culture, and history intersect in innovative ways. I am proud to have been part of this journey, and I am excited to see Saadiyat continue to evolve into one of the world’s foremost cultural destinations.