Last week we took a last minute turn on our way home from Abu Dhabi. We decided to stop over on Saadiyat Island and visit the Louvre with the kids. Spontaneous decision, so of course I did not do my “homework” about the destination, did not read tips about kids in museums and I had no snacks. But let’s do it, I replied to hubby! 

Arrived mid afternoon on a wednesday, no line, easy access. It’s usually recommended to purchase your tickets online in advance to make the process smoother.

My husband and I had agreed that the experience will have to be short and sweet. I was already so happy to see the iconic building. The fascinating work from architect Jean Nouvel is much an artwork as the gallery displays. Absolutely loved the light, shadows and water features all working together… Stunning!

We decided to let the children guide the tour, to follow their interest and to stop on what attracted their eyes. We also did direct them to some must see pieces and discussed some of the world’s greatest artists. In order to keep the peace and also the interest of the girls we skipped so much and will have to be back for an adult visit taking the time to read and absorb the incredible art on display.

The paintings often change and some artworks are loaned for a short time so you can get a different experience every time you visit. Here’s some of our favourite paintings, sculptures and artefacts… to keep the kids excited, the conversation going and maybe learn a few things.

- Ramses II Pharaoh of Egypt statue

- Composition with Blue, Red, Yellow and Black by Piet Mondrian, France, 1922

- Page from Quran, from one of the oldest Qurans ever found, is preserved in a darkened room along with a Gothic Bible, Buddhist sutras and a Torah from Yemen. Universal love for God.

- Map of the world, from Iraq 1400-1500 - an excellent example of how perceptions of the world varied as people started to venture out into the sea for trade and exploration.

- Napoleon Crossing the Alps, painting by Jacques-Louis David

- Susanna Fritscher installation 2007, an installation made of silicone threads and painted steel. Walking into a labyrinthine folds, allowing us to become active participants in the work. Cool!

There is also the Children's Museum. An interactive museum experience with simple construction games and activities. The Children's Museum hosts family-friendly experiences and workshops in both Arabic and English and the latest one to take residency is “A Costume Adventure”. Girls got to create their own avatar, then go on an interactive journey exploring costumes seen in artworks, with fun challenges to try.  The etrance to the Children’s Museum is included the general admission.

Also nice for children, the outdoor features… to explore.

Things to know:

Free (kids under 13), Dhs 31.50 (aged 13-22), Dhs63 (adults).

Open Sat-Sun & Tue-Wed 10am-8pm, Thu-Fri 10am-10pm.

www.louvreabudhabi.ae 

Collect a mini-iPad from the ticketing hall or download their app for free on your personal devices. With over 150 audios, texts, HD pictures and 3D views, this multimedia guided tour will give you an insight into the depths of the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s art and collections.

You might see a Gaugin, Picasso, Monet, Van Gogh, Da Vinci or you might not! Some of the artwork is on special lawns from Paris Museums and do come and go.