Louvre Abu Dhabi, a new cultural beacon

The UAE capital has been making great strides in the travel industry with an ever-growing list of tourist attractions, and Louvre Abu Dhabi is the latest feather in its cap that’s drawing global attention, a UAE daily has commented.

"It is the first museum of its kind in the entire Arab region and will without doubt offer a totally new perspective on the history of art in a globalised world," said The Gulf Today in an editorial on Thursday.

The paper went on to say, "French President Emmanuel Macron’s presence at the grand opening of the museum well demonstrates the close level of co-operation between the UAE and France in varied fields, especially culture.

"Several positive factors go to make the new cultural landmark extremely special. Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, the museum contains 23 permanent galleries, special exhibition spaces, a children’s museum, an auditorium, restaurants, retail outlets and a research centre.

"It has developed a rich collection of works from throughout human history and around the world, brought together to highlight universal themes and influences. To date, Louvre Abu Dhabi has acquired more than 600 artworks, exhibited alongside 300 works on loan from 13 leading French institutions.

"At a time when the world looks increasingly divided, the museum sends a gracious message of openness and harmony.

"Visitors encounter works from universal religions, including sacred texts such as a leaf from the "Blue Quran" and a Gothic Bible, as well as a Standing Bodhisattva from the 2nd or 3rd century and a white marble Head of Buddha from China.

"With several such precious masterpieces on display, Louvre Abu Dhabi will certainly be a valuable beacon, bringing cultures together to shine fresh light on shared stories of humanity.

"It will help make Abu Dhabi a distinctive cultural tourism destination," added the Sharjah-based daily.