Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited the Saadiyat Cultural District to review the construction progress of major cultural institutions, emphasizing the UAE’s commitment to heritage preservation. Key highlights included tours of the Zayed National Museum, Natural History Museum, and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, which together aim to position Abu Dhabi as a global cultural hub by 2025.
In a vivid tapestry of ambition and reverence for heritage, His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, graced the Saadiyat Cultural District with his presence. Amidst the grandeur of burgeoning cultural institutions, he assessed the final touches of construction set to culminate by the twilight of 2025. During this insightful visit, Sheikh Khaled underscored the UAE’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its national heritage. He expressed how the country’s leadership remains devoted to launching initiatives aimed at enriching the preservation of cultural treasures that speak of the nation’s past. He journeyed through the awe-inspiring sites of the Zayed National Museum—a sanctum for the UAE’s rich narrative—the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and the avant-garde teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi. Each step within these establishments echoes the UAE’s pledge to interweave its illustrious history with global cultural dialogues. “The Saadiyat Cultural District hosts one of the greatest concentrations of cultural institutions that tell the stories of the UAE, the world, and the connections that have shaped creativity and innovation throughout history,” stated Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. Remarkably, as of September 2024, the district reached an impressive 83 percent completion, reaffirming its vision of standing among the world’s most vibrant cultural havens. During his exploration, Sheikh Khaled absorbed the iconic architectural design of the Zayed National Museum, crafted to resemble falcon feathers, with the interiors nearing completion. The central atrium radiated architectural splendor, while various galleries began narrating tales of the UAE’s past. The visit also afforded him a glimpse into the minds and engines behind these transformative projects. Engaging with engineering teams and local talents, he learned about the innovative techniques embedded within the Natural History Museum, which promises an extraordinary journey spanning 13.8 billion years of the universe and humanity’s story. “Through their iconic architecture, collections, and innovative programming, the Saadiyat museums promote artistic expression and foster creativity. The district serves as a center for cultural dialogue and exchange, attracting visitors locally, regionally, and internationally,” Al Mubarak noted, painting a picture of a flourishing cultural nexus. The Crown Prince’s itinerary also led him to the captivating teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi—a realm where digital art dances with technological marvels across a sprawling 17,000-square-meter canvas. Sheikh Khaled observed the enticing exterior, poised to unveil groundbreaking digital experiences, as he wandered through areas where imaginative installations were being meticulously crafted. Collaborating intimately with Miral, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi aims to forge environments where art interacts with technology, invigorating audiences with creativity and curiosity. Drawing inspiration from the talents of teamLab from Tokyo, this endeavor symbolizes the UAE’s vision of a cultural renaissance. In the enchanting whispers of the upcoming museums, one can sense a pulsating heartbeat—a promise that the Saadiyat Cultural District will soon become a beacon of legacy, creativity, and global conversation.
The Saadiyat Cultural District in Abu Dhabi is poised to become an international cultural landmark, featuring world-class museums and institutions dedicated to showcasing both the UAE’s rich heritage and global cultural narratives. Current developments include the Zayed National Museum, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi—all designed to foster cultural exchange and promote a deeper understanding of history and the arts. This district aligns with the broader vision of the UAE to position itself as a significant hub of creativity and innovation.
In conclusion, Sheikh Khaled’s visit to the Saadiyat Cultural District underlines the UAE’s steadfast dedication to enhancing its cultural heritage while setting the stage for a global hub of creativity and artistic dialogue. The ongoing developments mirror a future where the stories of the UAE and the world merge, ensuring that the cultural legacy of the nation not only endures but flourishes for generations to come.
Original Source: economymiddleeast.com
