Perched where the Arabian Sea meets the Abu Dhabi island of Saadiyat, the Louvre Abu Dhabi presents a modern and expertly curated museum experience second to none in this world.

While comparisons are expected to its namesake in Paris, the relationship is more of an exploratory extension, reaching beyond, rather than a repetition and attempt to bask in the older brother’s limelight.

In other words, the Louvre Abu Dhabi stands on its own merits, with an architectural splendor and interior design of creative spaces that is world class.

Visitors are invited to progress through the exhibition in chronological order, from ancient to modern times, and a narrative app allows for use of their own phone as guide.

The exhibition halls are marvelous in their use of natural light and spaces…

… all the best to highlight the exhibits on display.

One of the main takeaways was the wide, open-minded, eclectic selection of artefacts, spanning not only the breadth of time, but also origins, materials, styles, and functions – no doubt serving as a reflection of Abu Dhabi as a world destination of many cultures living together in a tolerant human society.

Besides the stunning exhibitions, the hallways very cleverly morphed to present a passageway seemingly designed specifically for the artefacts:

from immense halls filled with awe,

others with mazes of high rectangular glass cases,

to lower expanses for horizontal observation,

to open spaces for viewing pleasure and reflection,

as well as chances to get up real close to examine the work intimately.

Along the way are magical nooks and crannies, and views to the outside through windows such as these below…

Until you reach the exterior halls, a natural part of the museum experience at the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

And I’ll leave you with my favorite piece from this visit (I’m sure my next visit will result in a new favorite!), which not only caught my eye from a distance, and drew me in aesthetically; but then as the materials and intention of the artist became evident, my interest turned to affection – can you imagine the stories of life that these pots have heard?

Overall, the Louvre Abu Dhabi puts the UAE capital city on the map of global art and culture, with a unique style of building architecture blended with modern museum practicality of design, combining beauty and convenience to offer a memorable visit for all.