Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi Tickets

4.5(13,164)

Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.

Saber-toothed cat fossil in Ice Age exhibit at Natural History Museum, Vienna.
























































From happy customers

Loved by 47 million+
Shylou Canuel Lim
AE

Shylou

United Arab Emirates
Jan 2026
5/5

review-image

review-image

review-image

+2 more

#We made a last‑minute decision to visit the National Aquarium Abu Dhabi, and it turned out to be such a great choice. To skip the long queue, we bought our tickets online through Abu Dhabi Tickets/Headout — and to my surprise, they offered discounts! The tickets were much cheaper than buying them at the counter, which was a huge saving for a family of six. The National Aquarium is a fantastic place for both kids and kids at heart. Aside from the impressive variety of sea creatures, they also have a capybara (which my daughter loves), birds, and reptiles in their mini Forest section. There is also an interactive activities that is very entertaining. Our kids had the best time exploring everything. It was truly a memorable day for all of us.
Leovie Caroline Bajenting
AE

Leovie

United Arab Emirates
Jan 2026
5/5

review-image
What made my visit stand out was how seamlessly the museum connects Sheikh Zayed’s life and values with the story of the UAE. The combination of iconic architecture, well-curated exhibits, and immersive storytelling created a meaningful and reflective experience rather than just a standard museum visit.
Marlee Quirequire
SA

Marlee

Saudi Arabia
Jan 2026
5/5

review-image
We were amazed by the architecture design of the museum and had the chance to know the history of emirates of the UAE. We were able to see the lens behind what was Abu dhabi like in the olden days and get to know Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the mind behind the success of the Abu dhabi which is considered as one of the best destination to visit in the UAE. Our whole experience was full of astonishment. Our kids enjoyed reading the script written and got invested with the story, they also loved the touch of technology that makes their experience educational and fun as well. The attached photo below is my son busy taking a picture and shared it with his friends back in Saudi Arabia whom he is getting in touched with throughout the entire journey.
Amel Zayati
CA

Amel

Canada
Jan 2026
5/5

review-image
Excellent facilities and proud to have such interactions. I went with my family, my children loved it, even my wife, who is not attracted by games, finally took part.
Silvia michelon
IT

Silvia

Italy
Jan 2026
5/5

review-image

review-image

review-image

+1 more

Phenomena by teamLab Abu Dhabi is an extraordinary artistic experience that goes far beyond the traditional concept of an exhibition. It is an immersive journey in which art, technology and nature come together harmoniously, engaging the viewer on a visual, emotional and sensory level. Each installation is alive, constantly changing, and reacts to the presence of visitors, making each experience unique and unrepeatable. Lights, colors and sounds create dreamlike environments that invite one to slow down, observe and be transported. One is not merely a spectator, but an integral part of the work itself.
Siarhei Mikhalchuk
AE

Siarhei

United Arab Emirates
Jan 2026
5/5

review-image

review-image

review-image

+2 more

It was great, especially for her daughter, who had a birthday on that day!!! Only for tickets with an open date, be sure to check for access)
Alikhan Yeshpanov
KZ

Alikhan

Kazakhstan
Jan 2026
5/5

review-image

review-image

review-image

+1 more

My girlfriend and I also visited the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and the experience was just as memorable in a completely different way. One of the first things we appreciated was the convenience of the location. All the museums are situated almost along a single line, forming a true cultural hub. This thoughtful urban layout makes it easy to move from one museum to another and encourages visitors to explore more in one day. From the very first seconds, I was impressed by the work of the staff. Everything was clearly explained to us, and the security procedures were handled at the highest level while remaining comfortable and welcoming. We were even offered a ride from one museum to another in golf carts- small details like this make a big difference and truly encourage you to return again and again. The exhibition itself begins with the creation of the Earth and its greatest treasures - the living beings that have inhabited it throughout different eras. For me, this was something very special. I felt as if I had returned to childhood, when I used to read encyclopedias describing the various geological eras of our planet. That sense of curiosity and wonder came back instantly. The exhibition is incredibly vivid and large-scale, filled with an impressive number of props and detailed models. The reconstructions of extinct animals - dinosaurs, saber-toothed tigers, and many others - are remarkably realistic, making it feel as though you are walking through another time. At moments, the atmosphere even reminded me of the animated film Ice Age, bringing a sense of familiarity, imagination, and fun into the scientific narrative. The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi is not only educational, but also emotional and immersive - a place that reconnects you with curiosity, childhood wonder, and a deeper appreciation of life on Earth.
Rakesh Shbhash Katti
IN

Rakesh

India
Jan 2026
5/5

review-image

review-image

review-image

+2 more

Presidential Palace is a beautiful architecture. Must visit for every one coming to Abu Dhabi. Buying it on headout made us put ahead of the crowd. There was a huge line for buying physical tickets. Thank you for making it simple.

Top things to do in Abu Dhabi

How to visit the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi

  • Ways to explore: All tickets include timed entry to permanent galleries. Visits are self-guided; no live guided tours currently operate onsite.
  • What you’ll see: Dinosaurs, fossils, meteorites, immersive Earth-history galleries, and region-specific discoveries from the UAE.
  • Signature highlights: Walk beneath Stan, the 67-million-year-old T. rex, and see rare hominin fossils like Lucy.
  • Queues & access: Timed slots manage crowds. There’s no ticket line, but security screening takes ~10–20 minutes.
  • How long to plan: Most visitors spend 2–3 hours covering highlights at a relaxed pace.
  • When to book: Weekends and school holidays sell out faster; booking ahead guarantees your preferred time slot.
  • Best upgrade: Choose a combo ticket if you’re visiting another Saadiyat Cultural District attraction the same day.

Compare your ticket options

Ticket typeLines skippedIncludesWhy pick thisPrice from
Museum Entry

Ticket line

Permanent galleries + select temporary exhibitions

Guaranteed timed entry, explore at your own pace

AED 70

NHM + Zayed Museum

Ticket lines

Two museums, same-day or flexible visits

Covers natural + human history, better value

AED 140

NHM + Louvre

Ticket lines

Two iconic Saadiyat museums

Art + science in one plan, saves vs separate tickets

AED 129

NHM + teamLab

Ticket lines

Science + immersive digital art

Two contrasting experiences, popular with families

AED 209

Things to know before booking your tickets to the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi

  • Booking window: Tickets are sold with timed entry slots. Weekends, school holidays, and late-afternoon slots tend to sell out first. Booking online in advance guarantees entry.
  • Entrances & flow: All visitors enter through the main entrance. There is no separate ticket queue for online bookings, but security screening is mandatory and typically takes 10–20 minutes.
  • What’s included: Standard tickets include access to all permanent galleries, the atrium, and select temporary exhibitions. Special exhibitions, if ticketed separately, will be clearly marked.
  • Ways to explore: Visits are self-guided. There are currently no live guided tours. Informational panels and interactive displays provide context throughout.
  • Add-ons & combos: Combo tickets pair the museum with nearby attractions like the Louvre Abu Dhabi, teamLab Phenomena, or Zayed National Museum—ideal for full-day cultural itineraries.
  • Policies: Each ticket allows single entry within the selected time slot. Re-entry is not permitted once you exit.

Galleries at the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi

Earth rising over the lunar surface, featured in National History Museum's Story of the Earth exhibit.

The Story of Earth

The origin of the universe and the formation of our planet, from the Big Bang to Earth’s earliest environments.

Location: Ground Floor, introductory galleries

Highlights:

  • Immersive Big Bang sequence using large-scale projections and soundscapes to visualize the birth of the universe
  • Geological timelines showing how continents, oceans, and climates evolved over billions of years
  • Rare meteorites, including fragments containing stardust older than Earth itself

Don’t miss: The Murchison meteorite, a carbon-rich space rock containing organic compounds and material more than 7 billion years old, offering a glimpse into the building blocks of life.

Triceratops skeleton exhibit at the National History Museum.

The Evolving World

Life’s dramatic journey, from single-celled organisms to dinosaurs and mass extinctions that reshaped the planet.

Location: Ground Floor, main exhibition hall

Highlights:

  • Stan the Tyrannosaurus rex, a 67-million-year-old skeleton and the museum’s most iconic centerpiece
  • Fossils and reconstructions illustrating major extinction events and evolutionary leaps
  • Interactive displays explaining how scientists read fossils to reconstruct ancient ecosystems

Don’t miss: Standing directly beneath Stan, one of the most complete T. rex skeletons ever discovered, a moment that anchors the entire museum experience.

Elephant, antelope, and saber-toothed cat exhibit at National History Museum TheLostHistory.

The Lost World of Abu Dhabi

A deep dive into the prehistoric landscapes of the Arabian Peninsula and the creatures that once lived here.

Location: Ground Floor, adjacent to dinosaur galleries

Highlights:

  • Fossils discovered in the UAE, including remains of ancient elephants and marine life
  • Reconstructions of Abu Dhabi when it was covered by forests, rivers, and shallow seas
  • Interactive maps showing how tectonic shifts transformed the region over millions of years

Don’t miss: The fossils of Stegotetrabelodon emiratus, an extinct elephant species discovered in Al Dhafra, one of the UAE’s most important paleontological finds.

Coelacanth model at National History Museum's Our World exhibit.

Our World

Biodiversity, ecosystems, and the story of human evolution within Earth’s complex web of life.

Location: Upper galleries

Highlights:

  • The famous Lucy fossil (Australopithecus afarensis), dating back 3.2 million years, a cornerstone of human evolution research
  • Displays exploring how species adapt, migrate, and survive changing environments
  • Interactive exhibits connecting ancient evolution to modern biodiversity

Don’t miss: Lucy’s skeletal remains, which transformed scientific understanding of how early humans walked upright.

Shark exhibit at National History Museum's Resilient Planet display.

Resilient Planet

A forward-looking gallery examining climate change, conservation, and humanity’s role in shaping Earth’s future.

Location: Upper galleries, final section

Highlights:

  • Immersive multimedia installations explaining climate systems and environmental tipping points
  • Case studies on conservation, sustainability, and resilience from around the world
  • Interactive scenarios allowing visitors to explore possible futures for the planet

Don’t miss: The interactive climate models that let you see how today’s choices could shape Earth over the next centuries.

Yellow frogs on green leaves at National History Museum wildlife photography exhibit.

Family & Temporary Exhibitions

Hands-on learning for children alongside rotating exhibitions that change throughout the year.

Location: Near the main gallery circuit and dedicated exhibition spaces

Highlights:

  • Dino Play, a dedicated interactive zone for children aged 0–6, with dinosaur-themed climbing, discovery, and sensory activities
  • Rotating temporary exhibitions, including wildlife photography, paleontology showcases, and science-led collaborations with international museums
  • Flexible spaces that allow repeat visitors to experience something new with each visit

Don’t miss: FPlan time for Dino Play early in the visit, while adults may want to check current temporary exhibitions near the end, these are usually included with standard admission unless clearly marked otherwise.

Must-see exhibits at the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi

Triceratops skeleton exhibit at the National History Museum.

Stan the Tyrannosaurus rex

A towering 67-million-year-old T. rex skeleton, displayed as the museum’s dramatic centerpiece. One of the most complete specimens ever discovered, Stan anchors the dinosaur and extinction galleries.

Shark exhibit at National History Museum's Resilient Planet display.
Meteorite exhibit at National History Museum with cosmic background.
Elephant, antelope, and saber-toothed cat exhibit at National History Museum TheLostHistory.
Dinosaur skull exhibit at the National History Museum.

Plan your visit to Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi

Clock showing time for Grevin Museum Paris.

Opening hours:

  • Sunday–Thursday: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM
  • Friday–Saturday: 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM

Last entry: Typically 60–90 minutes before closing

Best time of day: Late mornings on weekdays are the quietest; weekends get busier from early afternoon

Best days to visit: Tuesday to Thursday for fewer families and school groups

Average visit duration: 2–3 hours for highlights; up to 4 hours with kids or deep exploration

Tip: If you’re visiting multiple Saadiyat attractions, plan the museum earlier in the day when energy levels are highest.

National History Museum Abu Dhabi exterior with visitors and greenery.

The museum is located in the Saadiyat Cultural District, home to several of Abu Dhabi’s major cultural institutions.

  • Address: SDN1, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi | Find on Maps
  • Getting there:
    • Taxi or ride-hailing services are the most convenient
    • Driving is easy via the Saadiyat Island access roads
  • Parking:
    • Free on-site parking available
    • Dedicated accessible parking bays
    • EV charging stations provided

Tip*:* Allow extra time on weekends, as Saadiyat Island can get busy with multiple attractions operating simultaneously.

Restroom signs indicating men's and women's washrooms in a public facility.

Designed for long, comfortable visits, with facilities spread throughout the building to support families, groups, and solo travelers.

  • Restrooms: Available on all levels, including family and accessible restrooms
  • Café: On-site café offering light meals, snacks, and beverages (inside the museum)
  • Seating areas: Benches and rest points located throughout galleries for breaks
  • Gift shop: Museum store near the exit with science- and nature-themed merchandise
  • Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the museum
  • Climate control: Fully air-conditioned indoor spaces, ideal year-round
  • Parking: Free on-site parking, including designated accessible spaces and EV charging stations
Wheelchair access sign indicating barrier-free entry.

The museum is purpose-built to be fully accessible, making it easy to navigate for visitors with mobility, sensory, or additional support needs.

  • Step-free access: Ramps and elevators connect all public areas and gallery levels
  • Wheelchairs: Available on request, subject to availability
  • Accessible restrooms: Located on every floor
  • Wide pathways: Suitable for wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and strollers
  • Seating throughout: Helpful for visitors who need frequent breaks
  • Companion access: Free entry for People of Determination and one accompanying guest
Exchanging tickets at a counter.

To ensure a smooth and safe visit, the museum follows a set of standard entry and conduct guidelines.

  • Photography: Personal photography is allowed; flash, tripods, and professional equipment are not permitted
  • Food & drinks: Outside food and beverages are not allowed; café options are available inside
  • Bags: Large bags may be subject to inspection or restriction after security screening
  • Security: Mandatory security checks for all visitors; allow 10–20 minutes
  • Re-entry: Not permitted once you exit the museum
  • Timed entry: Tickets are valid only for the selected time slot

Visitor tips for a better experience

  • Start with dinosaurs: Begin in the dinosaur and fossil galleries while energy levels are high
  • Plan around kids: Visit Dino Play earlier in the trip to avoid fatigue later
  • Don’t rush galleries: The museum is designed for self-guided pacing—choose highlights rather than trying to see everything
  • Check temporary exhibitions: These are usually included and add value, especially for repeat visitors
  • Eat strategically: The café gets busiest between 1–3 PM; plan meals earlier or later
  • Combine smartly: Combo tickets work best if both attractions are on Saadiyat Island the same day

Frequently asked questions about Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi tickets

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

Yes, it’s highly recommended to book online, especially on weekends or holidays. Timed entry slots help manage crowds and secure your preferred entry window.

Does a skip-the-line ticket bypass all queues?

No, skip-the-line tickets only bypass the ticket purchase queue. All visitors must still undergo the standard security screening, which can take 10–20 minutes during peak times.

Can I re-enter the museum if I leave during my visit?

No, standard admission permits only a single entry. Once you exit, re-entry is not allowed on the same ticket.

Does the ticket include temporary exhibitions?

Yes, select temporary exhibitions are included with standard admission unless clearly marked otherwise.

Are guided tours included with tickets?

No live guided tours are currently offered. The experience is self-guided, supported by interactive displays and digital content.

Does standard admission include all must-see exhibits like Stan, Lucy, and the blue whale skeleton?

Yes, standard admission grants access to all permanent gallery exhibits, including Stan the T. rex, Lucy, the 25-meter blue whale skeleton, and the Murchison meteorite, with no extra charge for special exhibitions.

Is the museum family-friendly and suitable for young children?

Absolutely. The museum features interactive displays, a dedicated Dino Play zone, and child-friendly exhibits. Children under 18 enjoy free admission.

What language options are available during the visit?

Exhibit descriptions and the mobile app are available in English and Arabic. Future tours and audio guides may offer additional language options.

Can I combine the museum visit with other attractions?

Yes, several combo options are available, allowing you to pair your museum visit with attractions like the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, or teamLab Phenomena for a full-day cultural experience.

How is accessibility managed at the museum?

The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators, reserved parking, and accessible restrooms. Assistance is available for visitors with special needs.

Are refunds or cancellations allowed for purchased tickets?

Refund and cancellation policies vary by ticket product. It is best to review the specific policy details provided at the time of booking.

What happens if I arrive after my scheduled entry time?

You must enter within your 15-minute time slot. Arriving late may result in missing your designated entry, potentially shortening your visit.

Is security strict regarding bag checks or prohibited items?

Yes, all visitors undergo a standard security check. Large bags may need to be stored in available lockers, and certain items are prohibited for safety reasons.

Can I take photographs inside the museum?

Personal photography without flash is allowed throughout the galleries. However, commercial photography or use of flash is prohibited to protect sensitive exhibits.