"Sitting at the western tip of one of Abu Dhabi's many coastal islands, Saadiyat Cultural District's transformation from an expanse of featureless sand into the home of one of the world's most ambitious cultural projects has taken almost two decades. But, after years of construction shrouded in clouds of windblown dust, the much-anticipated cultural quarter has come into its own almost overnight, earning itself a spot on Condé Nast Traveler's list of The Best Places to Go in 2026."
"Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum opened in the space of two weeks in November and December 2025, while Frank Gehry's Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, an architectural jumble of boxes and cones on the waterfront, is also tantalizingly close to completion. When this contemporary art museum opens, along with Saadiyat Grove, a new residential and retail project, the Saadiyat Cultural District will become the emirate's most desirable address."
Saadiyat Cultural District transformed from an expanse of sand into a major cultural quarter over almost two decades. Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum opened in November and December 2025, while Frank Gehry's Guggenheim Abu Dhabi nears completion. The upcoming Guggenheim and Saadiyat Grove residential and retail project will further elevate the district's appeal. The island's white sandy coastline already hosts luxury resorts, a boardwalk with lively dining, and a beach club. Mamsha Al Saadiyat provides apartment clusters and dining options including Antonia, Beirut Sur Mer, and Japanese restaurant Niri.
Read at Conde Nast Traveler
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