Abu Dhabi offers more than just your typical tourist attractions of shops, beaches and fine dining; it is a world-class cultural destination. Only minutes from the city centre, Saadiyat Island is set to become the art haunt of the Middle East, as it will house a New York University campus, a Guggenheim, and even a Louvre! Due to open in 2015, this is a product of a 30-year cultural accord between the UAE and French Government. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, designed by Jean Nouvel, will present major artefacts and works in archaeology, the fine arts and decorative arts from all historic periods. The stunning, fretted canopy which is a key design feature was inspired by sunlight streaming through the palm plantations of the ancient oasis in Al Ain – Abu Dhabi’s second city and its heritage heartland.
www.saadiyat.ae/en
Dining