The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre has opened free public access to its “Light & Peace Museum” from May 16 to 18 to mark International Museum Day, offering visitors an immersive journey through Islamic civilisation, culture and values.
The initiative forms part of the centre’s broader mission to preserve Islamic heritage and promote intercultural dialogue through modern educational experiences.
Located inside the “Peace Dome” at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in Abu Dhabi, the museum welcomes visitors daily from 9am to 10pm during the free-access period.
According to the Emirates News Agency, the museum combines multimedia presentations, advanced digital technologies and interactive exhibitions to showcase the artistic, scientific and cultural achievements of Islamic civilisation.
Visitors can explore the museum through guided tours led by cultural specialists who explain the historical significance of the exhibits and the links between Islamic civilisation and other global cultures.
The museum also focuses heavily on values rooted in the UAE’s national identity, including tolerance, coexistence and peace.
Interactive Galleries and Multilingual Experience
The museum experience supports seven international languages, including Arabic, English, Chinese, Spanish, French, Russian and Hindi, allowing visitors from different backgrounds to navigate the exhibitions more easily.
Interactive digital systems help guests engage with displays across five themed galleries that highlight major civilisational concepts such as worship, creativity, coexistence and tolerance.
The museum also includes a dedicated family and children’s section designed to make cultural learning more accessible for younger visitors.
Officials say the use of advanced digital tools reflects the UAE’s wider push to modernise cultural and educational experiences while preserving Islamic heritage.
The “Peace Dome” itself has become one of Abu Dhabi’s major cultural attractions in recent years. Beyond the museum, the venue houses the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Library, which specialises in Islamic civilisation, sciences and arts.
The dome also contains a theatre that hosts religious, cultural and community events throughout the year.
UAE Expands Cultural Tourism Efforts
The launch of the free museum initiative comes as the UAE continues investing heavily in cultural tourism and heritage preservation projects across the country.
Abu Dhabi has increasingly positioned itself as a regional centre for art, culture and interfaith dialogue through institutions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Abrahamic Family House.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque itself remains one of the UAE’s most visited landmarks, attracting millions of tourists and worshippers annually.
Analysts say projects like the “Light & Peace Museum” help strengthen the UAE’s image as a hub for cultural diplomacy and moderate Islamic values.
The museum’s emphasis on coexistence and dialogue also aligns with the country’s broader initiatives promoting religious tolerance and multicultural engagement.
Authorities expect strong visitor turnout during the free-entry period, particularly as families and international tourists continue arriving in Abu Dhabi during the spring travel season.
