Free admission, hands-on science at Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi this weekend

The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi is marking International Museum Day with three days of complimentary admission from May 16 to 18, paired with a lineup of hands-on programming designed to bring science within reach for visitors across age groups.

The first two days of the observance will feature drop-in workshops centered on light and scientific exploration. Sun Printing, Light Lab: Colour & Shadow, and Constellation Light Lab are among the sessions that guide participants through the properties of light using experiential methods. Younger visitors will also find Shadow Safari and the Wiggly Creatures Workshop on offer — sessions that weave together storytelling and performance to frame science as something encountered in daily life.

The final day of the programme shifts focus toward the inner workings of the museum itself. The Build a Mini Exhibit workshop invites participants to take on the role of curator, selecting specimens and constructing their own displays while learning how objects and classification are used to communicate scientific narratives. Running alongside it, the Meet the Scientists Series gives visitors direct access to the researchers and specialists responsible for the museum’s collection, who will be available to field questions and discuss their work.

Registration details and event updates are available through the museum’s social media channels. The museum is open Monday through Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Friday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Further information can be found at nhmad.ae.