Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, a new museum of modern and contemporary art, is set to open on 11 December 2026, as announced by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. This development aims to bolster Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a global arts hub, offering a platform for cultural exchange and artistic dialogue.
Located in the Saadiyat Cultural District, the museum will join other prestigious institutions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum. Designed by the late architect Frank Gehry, the building will feature 30 galleries and a series of sculptural cones, providing a unique architectural experience.
The museum will present a diverse collection of art from the 1960s to the present, encompassing various media including painting, sculpture, and new media. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, emphasised the museum’s role in creating "transformative new opportunities for learning, creativity, and cultural exchange."
Dr. Mariët Westermann, Director and CEO of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation, highlighted the museum's ambition to be "a source of wonder, a hub of connection, and a place of curiosity and joy." The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi will focus on transcultural narratives, inviting visitors to explore art history through thematic connections rather than chronological order.
As Abu Dhabi continues to position itself at the forefront of global artistic production, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is expected to play a pivotal role in fostering artistic innovation and cultural dialogue. Further details about the museum's collection and public programmes will be revealed in the coming months
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