Meet the Expert: Aqeel Ahmed Aqeel and Firas Othman
A conversation about the cultural heritage of the emirate of Abu Dhabi between the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi’s Aqeel Ahmed Aqeel, Conservation Unit Head of Historical Buildings, and Firas Othman, architect, where they dive into what they do, what drives them, and the responsibility they feel towards safeguarding heritage for future generations.
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Take a virtual tour of the UAE’s creative ecosystem through studio visits with artists and practitioners Rawdha Al Ketbi, Susan Doe, and Oorvi Sharma.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: In the Studio with Rawdha Al Ketbi
Take a virtual tour of the UAE’s creative ecosystem through studio visits with artists and practitioners Rawdha Al Ketbi, Susan Doe, and Oorvi Sharma.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: In the Studio with Susan Doe
Take a virtual tour of the UAE’s creative ecosystem through studio visits with artists and practitioners Rawdha Al Ketbi, Susan Doe, and Oorvi Sharma.
Qasr Al Muwaiji – Episode 2
Standing strong for over a century, Qasr Al Muwaiji holds great historic significance, carrying tales of the past into the present.
Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa – Episode 2
Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa stands not only as a house but rather as a notable symbol of heritage, with open doors for everyone
Al Ain Palace Museum – Episode 2
Let’s revisit Al Ain Palace Museum and discover its engineering and architecture, crafted using natural resources.
Al Qattara Arts Centre – Episode 1
This building that embraces art is Bin Aati Al Darmaki’s house, which was built in the seventeenth century, according to archaeological findings.
Al Ain Oasis -Episode 1
Welcome to Al Ain Oasis, where culture and a way of life have thrived for thousands of years.
Al Jahili Fort -Episode 1
Al Jahili Fort is one of the largest traditional mud brick forts, and one of the most important cultural sites in Al Ain. Discover Al Jahili Fort through this tour.
Qasr Al Muwaiji – Episode 1
Qasr Al Muwaiji is one of the most significant cultural sites of Al Ain, and is a key component of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Al Ain for its outstanding universal value
Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa – Episode 1
A distinctive architectural marvel that was built in 1958, representing a blend between traditional architecture and modern building techniques. Watch this tour to discover Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa.
Al Ain Palace Museum – Episode 1
Watch this tour of the Al Ain Palace Museum, and learn more about this historic building that became a museum in 2001.
Sails
Sails are pieces of fabric attached to a ship's mast. It varies in sizes and plays an important role to suit different situations during sailing expeditions.
Al-Lewah
The influence of Emirati culture shines through in the art of Al Lewah. Explore this cultural expression, often regarded as a game among sailors, and discover the instruments that bring it to life.
Henna
Henna is an integral part of our customs and traditions during Eid Al Adha and special occasions. Explore its benefits and the process behind this art.
Net Making
Get to know the traditional way of Net Making - a cone-shaped fishing net used by divers for generations.
Burqaa Making
A handicraft passed down for generations, Al Burqa is a type of mask sewn of special fabric that serves as protection, prevention and adornment for women.
Gargour
The gargour is a traditional fish trap intricately woven from locally-sourced palm fronds.
Gold
Learn about the traditional craft of engraving gold. This manual craftsmanship requires skill and precision that has become rare and precious today.
Fish Salting – “Maleh”
Discover the process of “Maleh” or fish salting, a traditional method that is still used today to preserve fish for long-term storage and consumption.
Talli
Discover the talli traditional textile handicraft that features beautiful designs and creates adornment for all types of women’s clothing.
Al-Ahallah
Al-Ahallah performance reflects traditional poetry in our culture. It involves a circle of singers that perform mesmeric chanting, with call-and-response form, rhythmical sounds and movements with canes.
Paddles
Discover the art of making paddles, the tools used to steer and propel traditional boats through the waters.
Blacksmithing
Blacksmithing is a traditional craft that requires patience, skill and imagination, and it still plays a prominent role in many fields today.
Traditional Medicine
Traditional medicine is an integral part of our heritage, reflecting the deep connection with the environment and its resources.
Oyster Opening
Discover oyster opening, a profession that continues to exist in Emirati life to this day.
Chami
Chami is one of the traditional professions that are still practiced today. Watch to see how it’s used to make dairy products.
Still Life Drawings with Zach Bruder
In this activity, take inspiration from Zach Bruder and make playful and vibrant artworks.
Clay Sculpture inspired by Jeannie Jieun Lee
In this activity, take inspiration from Jennie Jieun Lee and combine abstractions from painting and the textural shapes of sculpture into one artwork.
How to paint with gouache
This activity is how to paint with gouache colours.
Clay Painting inspired by Yulia Lisilzon
Creating clay tiles that tells a story or shows your personality, inspired by Yuila Losilzon
Clay Figures Seyni Awa Camara
Creating a Clay figure inspired by Folktales in the style of Seyni Awa Camara
Clay Tiles
Creating a 3d layered landscape from slabs of clay that can depict a city or landscape.
Falconry Session for university students at Qasr Al Hosn
The Department of Culture and Tourism—Abu Dhabi organized a heritage session on falconry for university students at Qasr Al-Hosn, to shed light on this intangible heritage element, preserve it and pass it on to future generations.
Meet the Expert: Zowaina Mohammed Al Maamari
Follow this series to meet the experts behind the Abu Dhabi Culture teams dedicated to documenting and promoting the emirate’s story.
MEET THE EXPERT: AMEL CHABBI AND YASMEEN AL RASHDI
Follow this series to meet the experts behind the Abu Dhabi Culture teams dedicated to documenting and promoting the emirate’s story.
Building with Earth Exhibition
An Architectural Tradition in the UAE and Around the World. The exhibition provides visitors with an overview of Abu Dhabi’s earthen heritage, and a basic understanding of the origins of earthen building within the Emirati culture, in relation to the global manifestation of this architectural tradition in other parts of the world.
Meet the Expert: Lubna Ali Al Teneiji
Follow this series to meet the experts behind the Abu Dhabi Culture teams dedicated to documenting and promoting the emirate’s story.
Meet the Expert: Ronald Perlwitz
Follow this series to meet the experts behind the Abu Dhabi Culture teams dedicated to documenting and promoting the emirate’s story.
Meet the Expert: Rawdha Al Mansoori
Follow this series to meet the experts behind the Abu Dhabi Culture teams dedicated to documenting and promoting the emirate’s story.
Ruqaa script.
Learn about the letters of the Ruqaa script. with the calligrapher Mohamed Mendi.
Ruqaa script: letters Ha, Jeem, Khaa
Learn about the letters of the Ruqaa script with the calligrapher Mohamed Mandi.
Painting Abstract Images
In this activity, learn how to transform abstract images into your own works of art.
Mosaic Butterfly
Learn the art of mosaics and create works of art using small pieces of coloured glass.
Magic Leaves Drawing
Learn how to use crayons and watercolours to create colourful prints using leaves.
Decoupage
In this activity, learn the simple yet diverse medium of decoupage and transform any surface into a canvas for your imagination.
Meet the Expert: Mazyad Mansour Al Nasrawi
Follow this series to meet the experts behind the Abu Dhabi Culture teams dedicated to documenting and promoting the emirate’s story.
Mud Paintings Inspired by Silman Mansoor
Experiment the process of painting with clay slip to reveal interesting textures and cracks.
Paper Making
Learn the basics of paper making in this short activity video.
Exploring The Natural World using Mixed Media Inspired by Simrin Mehra Agarwal
Create beautiful mixed media paintings while exploring nature using techniques inspired by Simrin Mehra Agarwal.
Galaxy Night Painting
Use bold, vibrant watercolours to create luminant night sky paintings.
Raqqa script.
Learn about the letters of the Raqqa script. with the calligrapher Mohamed Mendi.
Meet the Expert: Sumayya Al Suwaidi
Follow this series to meet the experts behind the Abu Dhabi Culture teams dedicated to documenting and promoting the emirate’s story.
Architecture Series with Frank Gehry
Watch HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi’s talk with Frank Gehry, the architect of Guggenheim Abu Dhabi
Clay Sculpture
Learn to create three-dimensional representations by moulding clay.
Paper Fish
Video for Usage of colored papers to make a fish
Etel Adnan Inspired Activity
Create a colourful and textural abstract landscape inspired by the extraordinary artist Etel Adnan.
Fruit Sculptures
Learn how to make playful fruit sculptures using plaster.
Linoleum Printing – Sheikh Zayed Mosque
In this activity, learn the linoleum printmaking technique to create print artworks of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque.
Fashion Illustration
In this activity, learn how to construct figures for fashion illustrations and apply design, aesthetics and clothing construction.
Raqqa script.
Learn about the letters of the Raqqa script. with the calligrapher Mohamed Mendi.
Meet the Expert: Mariam Musa Shafi Mohammed
Follow this series to meet the experts behind the Abu Dhabi Culture teams dedicated to documenting and promoting the emirate’s story.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: In the Studio Panel Discussion
In the Studio Panel Discussion with Afra Al Dhaheri, Mays Albaik and Simrin Mehra Agarwal
Metallic Figure Workshop
In this workshop, learn about and create an artwork inspired by Korean Artist Park So-Young.
Masterclass on Textiles Art
Learn the essentials of fabric art with Hanneke Reinalda’s Masterclass “Printing on Fabric”.
Geometric Forms Workshop
In this workshop, learn about and create an artwork inspired by Korean Artist Cho Jai-Young.
Cat Sculpture
In this activity, learn how to sculpt a cat using clay.
Islamic Patterns
In this activity, learn basic techniques to draw an Islamic pattern.
Meet the Expert: Mohamed Mandi
Follow this series to meet the experts behind the Abu Dhabi Culture teams dedicated to documenting and promoting the emirate’s story.
Meet the Expert: Abdulrahman Al Nuaimi
Follow this series to meet the experts behind the Abu Dhabi Culture teams dedicated to documenting and promoting the emirate’s story.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: In the Studio with Simrin Mehra Agarwal
Meet Simrin Mehra Agarwal in her studio. An Abu Dhabi based artist, Agarwal examines transitions of bloom and decay.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: Spotlight Series – The Words I Love the Most
Get an in-depth look at artist Ghada Amer’s The Words I Love the Most through Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Spotlight series.
Multi-coloured Landscapes with Jigsaw Printmaking
Create multi-coloured landscapes inspired by the work of British artist David Hockney using the jigsaw printmaking method.
Tradition and Its Birthplace
This video will talk to students about the iconic Qasr Al Muwaiji, where many traditions were born.
Clay Flower Vase
Learn how to create your own vase and sculpt flowers using simple clay hand building techniques.
Earthen Architecture in Al Ain: Conserving Earthen Heritage Buildings
This series concludes with a visit to some earthen heritage sites that DCT recently conserved, using a variety of techniques
Chuck Close Portraits
Create portraits inspired by the work of American artist Chuck Close.
Islam and religious tolerance
Learn how tolerance dates back to early Islam and how the UAE welcomed people from different religions.
New Glass Paint technique
Apply glass paint and white glue on canvas to create unique creative designs.
History and Methods of Traditional Beekeeping in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi
Learn about the traditional beekeeping craft, and how beekeepers sustained it with their skills, expertise, and inherited knowledge.
Watercolour Postcards
Learn how you can use translucent layers of watercolour paint to create vibrant illustrations.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: Spotlight Series – Ancient Symbols
Get an in-depth look at artist Dia Azzawi’s Ancient Symbols, through Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Spotlight series.
Clay Sculpture
Learn to create three-dimensional representations by moulding clay.
Create: Recipes
Create Emirati dishes yourselves
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: In the Studio with Mays Albaik
Meet Mays Albaik, an Abu Dhabi based artist who draws us into her artwork with language, performance, and place from inside her studio.
Guided Tour of Al Ain Oasis
Al Ain Oasis is the largest oasis in Al Ain, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: In the Studio with Afra Al Dhaheri
Meet Afra Al Dhaheri, an Abu Dhabi based artist who explores materiality, ritual and process through her artwork from inside her studio.
The Camel and the Falaj: Foundations of a New Society
Discover how people in the UAE lived 3000 years ago.
In Celebration of World Music Day
In celebration of World Music Day, we would like to invite you to enjoy meeting some of Abu Dhabi's key musical performances and activities.
Arabic Calligraphy and Al-Taghrooda
Visit Louvre Abu Dhabi's 'Abstraction and Calligraphy' exhibition, meet Mohammed Mandi and learn about Al-Taghrooda
Printing Qasr Al Hosn
Print an illustration of Qasr Al Hosn using your favourite colours.
Acrylic Pour Painting
Mix and pour acrylic paints to create dreamy, surreal, and celestial artworks.
Learn about Al Ayala and discover Al Ain Oasis
Learn about Al Ayala, a traditional performance art of the UAE and explore aspects of Al Ain Oasis through the eyes of experts and artists.
Cardboard Stamps
Create up-cycled Cardboard Stamps and enjoy the process of printing.
Earthen Architecture in Al Ain: What is earth as building material
In this video, we introduce the properties of earth as building material and some of the major threats that these constructions face
Paper Quilling
Learn the technique of paper quilling for endless possibilities of creative designs.
Earthen Heritage Sites in Al Ain: Preserving Abu Dhabi’s Unique Heritage
First in a series that talks about the capabilities and benefits of earthen architecture for our planet and its inhabitants.
Plate Glazing
In this activity, learn how to apply glaze to your ceramic objects and personalize your creations.
Silk Painting
Learn silk painting techniques
Fashion Illustration
Learn how to construct fashion illustrations and apply design, aesthetics and clothing construction.
Pen Illustration
Explore pen drawing and shading techniques
Calligraphy Tools
Learn about the calligraphy tools used in all types of Arabic script.
Origami Flowers
Make your own origami flowers
Preparing Calligraphy Tools
Learn how to sharpen the pen and apply ink to prepare your calligraphy works on paper.
Clay Art: Palm Tree
Learn simple clay techniques
Mastering the Seas: Julfar, Ibn Majid, and Arab Navigation
This video introduces students to Julfar, Ibn Majid, and Arab Navigation.
Doll Making
Create your own dolls.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: Spotlight Series – Luminous Darkness
Get an in-depth look at artist Shirazeh Houishary’s Luminous Darkness through Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Spotlight series.
Cubist Portraits
Create your own abstract portraits inspired by Cubism.
A Craft, A Place, and A Tradition
This video will introduce students to the history of Al Sadu, Al Ain Palace Museum, as well as the Emirati Majlis.
Charcoal Animation
Bring your charcoal drawings to life through film and animation.
History at Home: Explore Marawah Island
Discover what life was like on Marawah Island 8,000 years ago.
City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra: Film Music in Al Ain
Birmingham’s world-class orchestra played as part of Abu Dhbai Classics in the enchanting and iconic Al Jahili fort in Al Ain.
Visits from Bait Al Oud VI: Universal Mozart
Oud legend Naseer Shamma and Bait Al Oud musicians perform music composed by Mozart and inspired by him on Arabic instruments.
Visits from Bait Al Oud VII: From Spain to Abu Dhabi
Oud legend Naseer Shamma with the musicians from Bait Al Oud take their audience on a musical journey to Spain and Latin America.
Visits from Bait Al Oud IV: The story of the Oud
An instrumental concert programme with Naseer Shamma and Bait Al Oud teachers celebrating the history of Classical Arabic Music.
Visits from Bait Al Oud V: Tribute to Classical Arabic Singing
For its 5th instalment, the Visits from Bait Al Oud concert series celebrates the rich tradition of Classical Arabic Singing
Sounds of UAE: Ahmed Al Hosani & Bait Al Oud, and Faisal Al Saari and band
Emirati Singer Ahmed Al Hosani performs with Bait Al Oud Musicians and Faisal Al Saari offers a performance of “To Zayed Salam”
Sounds of UAE: Nejma El Koor, Tariq Al Menhali and Faisal Al Jasim
The second National Day Concert from Sounds of UAE with Najma Al Koor, Tariq Al Menhali and Faisal Al Jasim
Art to Heart: A Conversation with Eleonora Sevenard
Eleonora Sevenard talks to Alia Al Neyadi about her journey as a soloist at the Bolshoi Theater.
Art to Heart: A Conversation with Salman Al Najem
Sara bin Safwan speaks with artist Salman Al Najem about the creative force of man, mental health and finding light within darkness.
Mawhibaty Programme End of Year Students Showcase 2019/2020
A Visual and Performing Arts showcase celebrating the accomplishments of students enrolled in the Mawhibaty programme 2019/2020
Art to Heart: A Conversation with Dr. Ahmed Al Shoaibi
Dr. Ahmed Al Shoaibi speaks about how he incorporates both his love for the UAE and his love of literature in his work.
Art to Heart: A Conversation with Pascale Marthine Tayou
Pascale Marthine Tayou’s creations offer us beautiful ways to look at one’s surroundings in a humorous yet critical way.
Art to Heart: A Conversation with Ahmed Al Attar
Here, Ahmed Al Attar sits with Khadija El Bennaoui and discusses his work, his ambitions, and his creative process.
Art to Heart: A Conversation with Vikki Tobak
US based cultural journalist, Vikki Tobak, chats with Farah Bushnaq on her life and career.
Art to Heart: A Conversation with Mary Lynn Miller
Mary Lynn Miller loves literature; she’s worked with children all her life, as an educator and a librarian.
Art to Heart: A Conversation with Gerald & Daphne Mercer
The couple tells us about their experiences and their intense love for their work in an interesting conversation with Khadija Kudsi.
Art to Heart: A Conversation with Fernando Reimers
As an educator and an artist, Fernando is inspired by a variety of people who have influenced his life.
Art to Heart with Faisal Kiwewa
Faisal Kiwewa goes from his childhood to his arts festival, the Bayimba International Festival of the Arts, and his current plans.
Art to heart: A conversation with photographer Mous Lamrabat
Belgian photographer Mous Lamrabat sits down with Sara Khalfan Al Mheiri for an #ArtToHeart chat about his thoughts and his work.
Art to Heart with Abdallah Khalfan Al Yamahi
Conversation between the heritage Expert Abdulla Khalfan AlYamahi and Yaser AlNeyadi on the protocol of Emirati Majlis
Art to Heart with Fatima Al Maghani
A conversation with the Emirati heritage expert, Fatima Al Maghanni, interviewed by Amena Al Farsi from Qasr Al Muwaiji team.
Visits from Bait Al Oud III: Ramadan Nights
A Celebration of the Holy Month of Ramadan under the artistic supervision of Bait Al Oud Vocal Teacher Dr. Fathulla Ahmed.
Visits from Bait Al Oud II: The new Qanun
Bait Al Oud Abu Dhabi’s Qanun teacher, Bassam Abdel Satar, gathers his graduates & friends to perform a virtual concert.
Visits from Bait Al Oud I: Naseer Shamma & Friends
Oud legend Naseer Shamma performed an online concert from Bait Al Oud Abu Dhabi, instilling hope in times of uncertainty.
Qasr Al Muwaiji Virtual Tour
The Rulers’ Palace and Birthplace of HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan which was and still a meeting place for the community.
World Day for Audiovisual Heritage: Four Experts, Four Pillars
Al Qattara Arts Centre celebrates World Day for Audiovisual Heritage through a series of interviews with heritage and audiovisual experts.
Art To Heart: A Conversation with Oud Player Alya Cycon
The first female graduate in Oud from Berklee Boston and Valencia, Alya Cycon sits across the camera with Mona Eldahshoury in this next #ArtToHeart interview.
Art to Heart: A Conversation with Violinist Layth Sidiq
Yarub Smairat interviews his colleague and friend, Berklee graduate and accomplished violinist Layth Sidiq.
Art to Heart: A Conversation with Pianist David Fray
A passionate one on one about the intricacies and theories behind classical music with David Fray.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: In the Studio – A Panel Discussion
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi’s series of studio visits culminates with a panel discussion bringing together all four visited artists.
Guided tour in Qasr Al Muwaiji
The Rulers’ Palace and Birthplace of HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan which was and still a meeting place for the community members and the visitors of the city since the fortieths of 20th century.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: In the Studio with Nasser Alzayani
Get to know the artists living and working in Abu Dhabi. Here, Bahraini-American artist Nasser Alzayani introduces his work.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: In the Studio with Hashel Al Lamki
Get to know the artists living and working in Abu Dhabi. Here, artist Hashel Al Lamki presents his multi-disciplinary work.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: In the Studio with Rand Abdul Jabbar
Get to know the artists living and working in Abu Dhabi. Here, artist Rand Abdul Jabbar presents her multi-disciplinary work.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: In the Studio with Maitha Abdalla
Meet Emirati artist Maitha Abdalla as she introduces her practice, and get to know the artists living and working in Abu Dhabi.
World Music Exploratory Guides
Explore the rich tapestry created by musicians, from the music of the Arab World to internationally renowned composers.
Drive-In concert – Live from Berklee Abu Dhabi
Enjoy a unique display of talent in our first drive-in concert at Berklee Abu Dhabi - the first of many live performances as part of our “When Is Now?” series. With an incredible line up of artists!
CulturAll Conversations: The Art Community; The Way Forward
A discussion among artists who have shaped the regional artistic scene and who have contributed to artistic institutions in the United Arab Emirates and beyond.
Al Qattara Arts Centre virtual tour
A space in which to discover and create, bringing together the curious and the experienced. Take a 360° tour.
Manarat Al Saadiyat virtual tour
Explore Manarat Al Saadiyat on the 360° tour.
Jebel Hafit Tombs virtual tour
At Jebel Hafit in Al Ain are tombs that reveal trade links with the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Persia and the Indus Valley.
Meet the Curator Paolo Colombo
Art curator Paolo Colombo talks about the potential effects of social distancing on himself and other artists.
Arabic Naskh Script Foundation Course
A calligraphy course where students can learn the Naskh script basics using classical tools, to create calligraphy artworks.
Modern Heritage
Abu Dhabi’s Modern Architectural & Urban Heritage
CulturAll Conversations: Reimagining Museums
Museums: Places of Civic Engagement, Inspiration and Rebuilding in a Pandemic Age
Abu Dhabi Children’s Library Online
Discover fun books to read at the e-Library.
Obaid Suroor
Meet Obaid Suroor, the ‘Guardian of Emirati Heritage’.
Eid Night with Kadim Al Sahir
An exclusive live session with singer Kadim Al Sahir from the Eid Al Fitr premiere.
Meet Astrophotographer Samy Olabi
Meet photographer Samy Olabi, a regional pioneer in astrophotography.
The Five Elements of Light
Portrait photography can be defined as ‘drawing light’. Photographer Julian John breaks down the five elements of light and how to control them.
Meet Photographer Julian John
Meet Julian John, professional photographer, MAS Photography Studio.
Okwui Enwezor and David Adjaye in Conversation
Okwui Enwezor and David Adjaye in conversation at Abu Dhabi Art
Visits from Bait Al Oud II: The New Qanun
Bait Al Oud teacher Bassam Abdel Satar gathered his qanun graduates together for an online concert, showcasing Arabic musical traditions, as well as innovation and creativity.
Visits from Bait Al Oud IV: The Story of the Oud
Naseer Shamma and teachers from Bait Al Oud perform a programme of classical Arabic music.
An Evening with Dalal Abu Amneh
An evening of music with singer Dalal Abu Amneh, whose impressive repertoire ranges from Arabic classical ‘tarab’ to Andalusian ‘muwashahat’.
An Evening with Jahida Wehbe
An evening with singer Jahida Wehbe as she performs classical and patriotic music, among other genres.
Emirati Traditional Games
Traditional games represent a shared heritage that entices core values needed to build qualities and inspire collectiveness.
Qasr Al Hosn virtual tour
Qasr Al Hosn has more than one story to tell, it is a place of many layers and secrets awaiting to be discovered.
Al-Sadu weaving
By weaving sheep wool, goat hair or camel fur, Emirati artisans create distinctive designs rich in geometrical patterns that often reflect social identity and the surrounding environment.
Furusiyya Exhibition Virtual Tour
The walk-through virtual tour of the Furusiyya exhibition allows you to get even closer to the artworks than you can in real life.
The Red Palace exhibition virtual tour
Explore the Cultural Foundation exhibition ‘The Red Palace’ by artist Sultan bin Fahad, in 360° view.
Talli embroidery
Talli is a traditional form of decorative embroidery practised by Emirati women using cotton or silk threads on a loom called a ‘Kajooja’.
The oldest known mosque in the UAE
Artefacts discovered in the early Islamic town reveal evidence of trade to lands as far away as China.
Culture Summit Panel 2020
A special Culture Summit Abu Dhabi recorded session: ‘Alone Together: Culture and Resilience’.
Common Ground exhibition virtual tour
Explore the Cultural Foundation group exhibition ‘Common Ground’, in 360° view.
The Founding Father and the Archaeological Story of the UAE
Peter Magee, Zayed National Museum Director, Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, in conversation with Eisa Yousif, Director of Excavations & Sites, Sharjah Archaeology Authority.
Universal Expressions: Inspired by Louvre Abu Dhabi
The Gustav Mahler Youth Orchestra performs with Christoph Eschenbach, Faisal Al Saari and Gautier Capuçon. This historic concert in Abu Dhabi in 2016 featured two world premieres: the oud concerto 'Zayed’s Dream' and the cello and orchestral fantasy composition 'Once Upon a Time'.
Fish net making
Marine artisans weave traditional fish nets, using simple tools and nylon threads to create nets of various sizes.
Qasr Al Muwaiji
Qasr Al Muwaiji, fort of the Al Nahyan and birthplace of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.
The Founding Father in Qasr Al Hosn
Discover the significance of Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi’s development through this archival clip of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, first President of the UAE and former Ruler of Abu Dhabi.
Khoos weaving
Khoos is a traditional Emirati craft in which dry palm fronds are woven to create household products such as placemats and baskets.
Etel Adnan
Hans Ulrich Obrist discusses the creation of a commissioned artwork by Etel Adnan for the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019.
Dr Mohamed Yousif
Dr Mohamed Yousif, one of the United Arab Emirates’ first generation of contemporary artists, reflects on his art practice in this short film.
Jean-Michel Basquiat
Learn about the life and career of Guggenheim Abu Dhabi collection artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, and his painting Cabra (1981-82).
Saeed Al Otaiba and his memories of Qasr Al Hosn
His Excellency Saeed Al Otaiba recalls Al Ain’s development into a flourishing city and describes the grand structure of Qasr Al Hosn during the rule of Sheikh Shakhbut bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
The architects of Saadiyat Cultural District museums
The architects of the Saadiyat Cultural District museum discuss the museums and their cultural impact, at Abu Dhabi Art.
Saul Williams and the Poetic Word
Diverse performance of the poetic spoken word by the multi-talented and influential poet.
Naseer Shamma & Friends in concert
Naseer Shamma, joined by Bait Al Oud musicians, perform a new composition from Abu Dhabi.
Fatima and Hadeya Al Rumaithi and their memories of Qasr Al Hosn
Fatima Al Rumaithi and Hadeya Al Rumaithi take us back to their childhood memories of the celebrations in and around Qasr Al Hosn and their stories of the community that once surrounded the fort.
Hassan Hajjaj
Hassan Hajjaj discusses his practice and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi acquired works My Rock Stars Experimental: Volume 2 and Le Salon (2017).
Mohammed Abdo in concert
Enjoy the best of the Cultural Foundation’s live performances! Here are some masterpieces sung by superstar Mohammed Abdo.
Mohamed Melehi
Reem Fadda in conversation with Mohamed Melehi, tracing his multifaceted practice.
Gateway: Fragments, Yesterday & Today
Paolo Colombo and Sarah Collins in conversation with commissioned artists Lamya Gargash and Nima Nabavi.
Misinterpretation: Critical Thinking in Arab Contemporary Art Practice
Curator Munira Al Sayegh in conversation with Sarah Al Agroobi, Manal Al Dowayan, Ahaad Alamoudi and Eman Ali.
‘Do not feel burdened’
Arabic calligraphy demonstration by Mohammed Al Mandi, ‘Do not feel burdened’.
Salt dough leaves
Create leaf ornaments by using real foliage to make impressions in clay or salt dough. Once dry, decorate and use them for bowls or jewellery.
Make a Collage
Make and Play are short, fun videos for all the family to make art inspired by the collection using simple materials.
Make a Helmet
Make and Play are short, fun videos for all the family to make art inspired by the collection using simple materials.
Pastel portraits
This tutorial demonstrates basic pastel techniques for drawing portraits. Explore the medium and immerse yourself in the process.
Clay teddy bear
Create your own teddy bear sculpture out of clay or salt dough. Decorate your creation using paint and glitter.
Comical faces
Work alone or with a family member to draw different sets of facial features. Cut them out and assemble them together to create a funny face.
Make a Horse
Make and Play are short, fun videos for all the family to make art inspired by the collection using simple materials.
Gahwa and Chai paintings
Use coffee and tea as alternative painting mediums and explore their qualities to create texture, shadows, gradients and depth.
Mixed media tote bag
Make your own customised tote bag using canvas or leather and decorate it with repeating patterns, stencils, found objects and more.
Illuminated tree
Create an illuminated image using a box, battery-powered fairy lights, layers of tracing paper, pastels and paint.
Make a Mask
Make and Play are short, fun videos for all the family to make art inspired by the collection using simple materials.
Make a Scene
Make and Play are short, fun videos for all the family to make art inspired by the collection using simple materials.
Jewellery design drawing (part 1)
Naida Akaeva, a jewellery design instructor from Al Marsam Al Hor, introduces beginners to basic drawing techniques for jewellery design.
Multicoloured menageries
Draw the outlines of various birds, cut them out and decorate them using a range of materials to create your own menagerie.
Make a Seal
Make and Play are short, fun videos for all the family to make art inspired by the collection using simple materials.
Jewellery design drawing (part 2)
Naida Akaeva, a jewellery design instructor from Al Marsam Al Hor, introduces beginners to basic drawing techniques for jewellery design.