Al Ain museum reopens, offers a glimpse of UAE's rich civilisation

In 2011, Al Ain became the first city in the UAE to be inscribed on the Unesco World Heritage List, encompassing 17 cultural sites

- Arwa Almazrouei

Diplomatic gifts that the UAE received from around the world. Among the key discoveries are finely crafted small gold pieces. (Top right) Artefacts from the Hili Burial site.

The first archaeological museum in Abu Dhabi has once again opened its doors to the public, showcasing more than archaeological artefacts but also telling the story of the UAE civilisation.

Located in Al Ain Oasis listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site, the museum's location was chosen for its combination of natural beauty and the symbolic strength of Sultan Fort, making it a cultural and educational centre to preserve history and heritage for future generations.

The museum was founded by the UAE Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, in 1969. The first temporary exhibition was held in Sultan Fort to attract visitors as a prelude to the museum's official opening.

The museum was then officially inaugurated in 1971 by Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan. At first, it included only two exhibition halls. During excavation campaigns between 1973 and 1977, many archaeological artefacts were discovered, prompting Sheikh Zayed to expand the museum to four halls.

In 2001, a 50-dirham coin was minted to mark the museum's 30th anniversary, featuring a portrait of Sheikh Zayed on one side and an engraving from the Hili Grand Tomb on the other. Commemorative stamps were also issued in 2003.

In 2011, Al Ain became the first city in the UAE to be inscribed on the Unesco World Heritage List, encompassing 17 cultural sites. In 2018, the museum was closed for restoration and expansion works, during which three archaeological sites were discovered and preserved in their original locations.

Here's what's inside Al Ain Museum: