Saadiyat Island

Best things to do in Saadiyat Island

Saadiyat Island's Must-See Treasures

Saadiyat Island serves as Abu Dhabi’s cultural centerpiece, housing a dense concentration of world-class institutions and natural preserves. The district features architectural landmarks designed by Pritzker Prize winners, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the forthcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum. Beyond the art galleries and museums, the island contains white sand beaches that serve as nesting grounds for endangered Hawksbill turtles. This collection highlights the island’s blend of global art history, modern academic facilities at NYU Abu Dhabi, and coastal leisure facilities.

Saadiyat Island's Must-See Treasures — Map

Wikiemirati / CC BY-SA 4.0

A

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Modern art museum with expressionist architecture designed by Jean Nouvel, showcasing a diverse collection of artworks that connect Eastern and Western art traditions.

B

Guggenheim Abu Dhabi

Designed by architect Frank Gehry, this museum focuses on modern and contemporary art from a global perspective, particularly emphasizing works from West Asia, North Africa, and South Asia.

C

Zayed National Museum

The national museum of the United Arab Emirates, designed by Foster + Partners, commemorates the life of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and explores the country's history and cultural transformation.

D

Manarat al Saadiyat

Visit this unique cultural centre located on Saadiyat Island and admire exhibitions with international collections.

E

Saadiyat Public Beach

A 400-meter stretch of white sand on the Arabian Gulf, managed to protect local wildlife, including the nesting sites of endangered Hawksbill turtles.

F

Saadiyat Public Beach

Accessible sandy beach featuring eco-friendly facilities and a dune protection zone. Entry requires a fee and provides access to lounge chairs and showers.

G

Saadiyat Beach Club

A luxury facility featuring an outdoor infinity pool, private cabanas, and fitness centers situated along the island's coastline.

H

NYUAD Welcome Center

New York University Abu Dhabi is a degree granting, portal campus of New York University serving as a private, liberal arts college,…

I

NYUAD Art Gallery

Located at New York University Abu Dhabi, this gallery hosts curated exhibitions by international artists and provides a space for experimental scholarly art projects.

J

UAE Pavillion

An architectural structure designed by Foster + Partners, originally built for the Shanghai Expo 2010. Its form is inspired by the shape of sand dunes.

K

Performing Arts Center

Designed by Zaha Hadid, this structure features a futuristic, organic design and houses five theaters, including an opera house and a concert hall.