Al Ain Palace Museum

Al Ain Palace Museum originally functioned as the residence of the United Arab Emirates’ Ruling Family and the Ruler’s administrative centre. Al Ain Palace was built in 1937 and then extended by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founding Father of the UAE, who used it as his residence until 1966. It was renovated and converted to a house museum in 2001. Some of the architectural features typical of the Transition Period (1930s–60s ) of building in Al Ain at this time can still be seen at the palace.

The museum is a cultural and historical location where visitors can experience the Emirati way of life in the 20th century and learn about the private and political life of the Ruling Family, especially that of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The restoration added two new buildings to the complex, one of which houses administrative offices and displays artefacts gifted to the museum by the local community. The other building shows the Al Nahyan family tree, providing information about the country’s rulers and their lineage.

A large, modern tent in the museum complex is a reminder of the traditional tent that Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan used to receive guests. The tent reflects Bedouin tradition and Arab hospitality. A courtyard in the museum also has a Land Rover, similar to the ones Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan preferred to use for his travels across the desert.