5 New Museums Opening in the Region To Get Excited About

We can't wait!

The museum scene in the region is about to heat up with some exciting new additions on the horizon. Whether you’re a motor enthusiast, a history buff, or perhaps planning on entering the oil and gas industry, the next couple of weeks, months, and years yield many wonderful things for the art enthusiasts among us to see. Below, a new crop of niche, must-visit cultural institutions set to open their doors and welcome visitors in  Algeria, Qatar, and beyond to get excited about.

The Natural History Museum in Abu Dhabi, UAE

Calling all history buffs! The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi is set to feature some of the rarest natural history specimens ever found on planet Earth. Located in the Saadiyat Cultural District, the scientific research and teaching institution invites guests to take a journey through time and space, from the beginning of the universe starting from the evolution of the universe and the formation of the Earth to the history of our life on the planet. From the world-famous skeleton of Stan, the Tyrannosaurus rex, the Murchison Meteorite specimen, and other spectacular collections, this museum promises to be a feast for the senses when it opens in 2025.

The Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, Egypt

Located two kilometers from the Pyramids of Giza, the new museum complex is home to the world’s largest archaeological collection.  Situated between the Great Pyramids and Cairo, when it opens sometime this year, it will occupy 500,000 square meters. It will feature 12 exhibition halls, with two entirely dedicated to Egypt’s most famous pharaoh, Tutankhamun, and will display, for the first time, nearly all of the more than 5,000 objects discovered in his tomb. The museum recently played host to the tableau vivant presentation of the Dior Tears capsule collection, guest designed by Denim Tears’ Tremaine Emory for the luxury French brand in December.

Great Museum of Africa in Algiers, Algeria

One of the proposals for the Great Museum of Africa in Algiers by UNStudio.

Scheduled to open soon in the capital of Algeria, the cultural and scientific institution is devoted to showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage of Africa. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that span the continent’s diverse civilizations, including ancient kingdoms, empires, and cultures. When it opens, it will be one of the largest and most important museums of its kind in the region. In addition to artefacts and exhibitions, it will also host educational programs and events to further promote awareness and understanding of Africa’s rich cultural heritage.

 Black Gold Museum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Those interested in the incredible history of oil in Saudi Arabia will definitely want to visit the Black Gold Museum when it opens in Riyadh. The upcoming institution aims to showcase the history of oil exploration and production in the region, including the discovery of oil in Saudi Arabia and the development of the industry. The museum will feature interactive exhibits, 200 contemporary pieces of art, and displays that highlight the technological advancements and innovations in the industry, as well as the social, economic and cultural impact of the petroleum industry on the region.

Qatar Auto Museum in Doha, Qatar

One of three museums opening in Doha in the very near future, the Qatar Auto Museum is a car aficionados dream. Aiming to bring the country’s motor enthusiasts under one roof, the forthcoming Rem Koolhaas-designed cultural institution will explore the past, present, and future of the automobile and its impact on global life and culture. It will feature a collection of vintage and classic cars, including some of the rarest and most unique vehicles from around the world and will host several auto-themed exhibitions throughout the year.

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