All about the Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi

The brainchild of the late H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan, Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi serves as a modern institution that celebrates the regional culture, art and heritage of the UAE. 

Established in 1981, the Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi has launched a variety of innovative programmes to promote cross-cultural exchanges in various art forms. Building itself year upon year, today the Cultural Foundation has gained international acclaim and prominence as a recognised cultural and heritage landmark.

 

Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation Location

The Cultural Foundation is located right opposite Qasr Al Hosn. It is conveniently located for those living in Al Khalidiya and Al Danah. Standing on Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, the cultural centre enjoys proximity to the World Trade Centre and the Etisalat Headquarters. Other notable destinations nearby include:  

• Corniche Beach: 6 minutes away
• Emirates Heritage Club and Village: 11 minutes away
• Mina Zayed Port: 15 minutes away
• Qasr Al Watan: 15 minutes away

Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi Contact

• Address: Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street
• Contact: +971-2-657-6348

Things to Do in Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi, UAE

For the most part, activities in Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation revolve around creativity and art that promote cultural understanding and harmony among the masses. Here’s what you can do at the Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi.

Attend Exhibitions

This is one place where you can find an array of public programmes and art exhibitions aimed at promoting local artists. These exhibitions combine displays of visual and static art with affiliate public events. The focus is mainly on supporting modern and contemporary art forms originating from the UAE and the adjoining regions. 

Visit the Children’s Library

The Cultural Foundation offers one of the best children’s libraries in Abu Dhabi. The cultural foundation library aims to foster the life-long habit of reading into young minds while simultaneously helping them connect with each other through art and technology. 

The Cultural Foundation library Abu Dhabi hosts over 70 different community-driven, knowledgeable and innovative programmes for kids to nurture their young minds and help them grow into enlightened adults. Library registration for kids is free of charge and you can easily do it online.

Participate, Learn and Grow in the Public Programme

While the exhibitions and performing arts form the backbone of cultural promotion in the region, the Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi also focuses on empowering the people with some forms of art. There are a series of well-rounded programmes comprising masterclasses, guided tours, workshops and expert talks to educate and enlighten the masses about creativity, art and culture. 

These programs range from sculpting, fashion design, glass painting and jewellery making to calligraphy, sketching and pottery for all ages. There are special programs conducted for kids who wish to enhance their artistic skills. At the same time, the Cultural Foundation offers an Art Residency programme for professional local artists to support their work and fuel their career growth.

Enjoy Performing Arts

To watch top-notch performing arts shows in the UAE, head over to the Cultural Foundation. This place is home to a 900-seat theatre that hosts popular world-class contemporary and local performances. A celebration of dance, music and art, these programmes are scheduled year round for families and youth. The theatre however follows strict rules and regulations that all visitors must adhere by. The most important regulations among them being:

• No ticket applicable for children aged below 6
• Certain shows do not allow children younger than 6 years of age as audience
• All patrons below the age of 15 should be accompanied by an adult

Other Important Information

Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation Opening Hours

For those who wish to visit, the Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi timings are as follows:

• Saturday – Thursday: 09:00 am to 07:00 pm
• Friday: 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm

If you want to attend specific programmes or Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi events, make sure you check the online schedule and plan your visit accordingly. 

Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation Tickets

The Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi allows free entry for all visitors. Tickets are however applied to different programmes and ticket prices vary accordingly. The best way to know how much it may cost you to attend a certain Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation programme or event is to check ticket prices online. Average ticket prices may start at AED 75 and go all the way up to AED 800, depending on the event type. 

How to Reach the Cultural Foundation

Obviously the easiest way to reach the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation is to drive there. However, if you’re looking for alternatives, take bus 32 or 34. It’s the cheapest way to reach the Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi. However, you will have to walk a short 5-minute distance to get to the cultural centre. If you wish to save time, skip the bus and take a taxi instead. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Guides Available On-Site?

You can hire a guide at the Cultural Foundation. The process is simple. Just reach out to the customer service team and they will be happy to help you out.

Is Internet Connectivity Available for Cultural Foundation Visitors?

All people visiting the foundation can access the complimentary Wi Fi facility provided across the premises. 

Are There Facilities for People of Determination?

The entire Cultural Foundation facility is designed to provide easy accessibility for people of determination. For added facilitation, approach the visitor experience specialists stationed at the various ticketing points on-premises. 

Are There Any Restaurants in Cultural Foundation?

Yes, there are a handful of eateries on-site where visitors can sit, relax, and enjoy a quick bite. 

Is There A Praying Facility Onsite?

You can offer prayers at the Musallah that is located near the restaurant area outside the Cultural Foundation building. 

That brings us to the end of this short guide on Cultural Foundation. With places like these, no amount of words can express the experience and enjoyment that they offer. You truly have to visit the Cultural Foundation to be able to resonate with it and everything it stands for. 

While you’re there, it’s only wise to take the time and explore the various things to do in Qasr Al Hosn. For someone who truly loves art, the UAE has tons to offer. Visit the Al Maraya Art Centre in Sharjah or wait till you see what the upcoming 3D Trick Art Museum in Dubai has to offer. If nothing else, check out the museums in Abu Dhabi. 

For more insights and updates on life in the UAE, stay tuned to MyBayut!

Feature Image Courtesy: Official Cultural Foundation Facebook Page