The top nine exhibits to check out at the Louvre Abu Dhabi

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Louvre Abu Dhabi houses rare artworks loaned from various museums.
Updated 11 November 2017
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The top nine exhibits to check out at the Louvre Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI: You could not have missed the buzz around the opening of Louvre Abu Dhabi even if you tried. Today, it officially flings open its doors to the public with a three-day program of festivities planned for the historic launch (tickets for opening day are reportedly sold out already).
Described by Manuel Rabate, director of Louvre Abu Dhabi, as a “metaphor for cross-cultural dialogue” in a time when humanity seems ever more divided, the museum is being hailed as a new world museum of the 21st century.
All the hyperbole seems justified when you see how it has been curated — traditional museography has been turned on its head to create a narrative that takes you through the history of mankind, from ancient to post-modern, with artworks that are grouped together according to contextual relevance.
Not only does it carry the name of the venerated Paris museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi houses rare artworks loaned from Musée du Louvre, plus 12 other museums across France, aside from its own collections and loans from museums in the region.
As the Musée du Louvre in Paris celebrates with a projection show on its pyramid tonight, join in the fun and read more about the nine top must-sees at this iconic museum.

1. Germination: A three-part installation by Giuseppe Penone, this commission by Louvre Abu Dhabi aims to “reveal the connection between cultures.” The main part is “leaves of light” — a bronze tree which complements the museum’s architecture, particularly the lacy dome through which “a rain of sunlight” filters through — while a wall of hand-drawn porcelain tiles, and a selection of pottery made with clays sourced from UAE, make up the trio. This installation, along with another commission, a series of textual limestone reliefs by Jenny Holzer, can be found in the outdoor plaza area of the museum.

2. Statue of King Ramesses II: Housed in Gallery 2, this striking four-ton Diorite statue of an Egyptian king is impossible to miss. On loan from Louvre Paris, this piece is emblematic of the chapter exploring the birth of the first great powers around the world.

‎٣ أيام تفصلنا عن الافتتاح المرتقب ‎لم نكن لنصدّق ذلك لولا تلك التحف الفنية المحيطة بنا والتي باتت تزيّن جدران المتحف‏ ‎‏⠀⠀⠀⠀ ‎شاركونا هذا الافتتاح التاريخي ⠀⠀⠀‏ ‎اشتروا تذاكركم من خلال الرابط في البايو ‎‏⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀‎ ‎#افتتاح_اللوفر_أبوظبي ‎ #اللوفر_أبوظبي ‎‏⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ We’re opening in 3 days! If it weren’t for all the masterpieces and ancient artefacts surrounding us, we might still find it impossible to believe … ‎‏⠀⠀⠀⠀ Be part of our historic opening, purchase your tickets at the link in bio. ‎‏⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #LouvreAbuDhabiOpening #LouvreAbuDhabi ‎‏⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

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3. Ancient world map from Iraq: As people started to voyage in the 15th and 16th centuries, global perspectives changed. A rare 15th century map of the world from Iraq in the Cosmography gallery shows how perceptions of the world varied. Other highlights in this section include a Portuguese six-fold screen map and an illustrated globe by Italian cosmographer Vincenzo Coronelli.
4. Vatican’s Apollo: The Apollo Belvedere, considered one of the most iconic classical sculptures, enjoys pride of place at the Vatican museum. But here at Louvre Abu Dhabi (Gallery 7) you can view a bronze cast of the marble sculpture, on loan from the Chateau de Fontainebleu.
5. La Belle Ferronnierre: Also known as the Woman Portrait, this painting by one of the greatest Renaissance artists, Leonardo da Vinci, is another loan from Musée du Louvre, Paris. It marks the growing importance of portraiture in European art, as well as a rediscovery of the philosophies from antiquity, interpreted through newer optics.
6. Vincent Van Gogh’s Self-Portrait: This iconic oil on canvas needs little introduction, and enjoys pride of place in Louvre Abu Dhabi’s ‘Modern world’ gallery, courtesy of Musée d’Orsay. Rubbing shoulders with Van Gogh are significant pieces from other greats of the same era, such as Claude Monet and Paul Gaugin.
7. Food for thought – Al Muallaqat: This interesting installation by Saudi Arabian artist Maha Malluh celebrates the region’s heritage. An artistically presented set of old, blackened cooking pots — used to make traditional goat’s stew over an open fire — tell the stories of a nomadic past.
8. Fountain of light: Consider this the closing crescendo. A glittering installation made of crystal chandeliers by contemporary Chinese artist Ai Weiwei references the historic tower of Babel, even as it addresses questions of diversity and existentialism in a hyper-connected globalized modern world. It’s located in the last gallery, which is called “A global stage.”

9. Children’s museum: Thoughtfully designed to inculcate a love for the arts in children from a young age, this compact, colorful space offers interactive exhibits at eye level for the little people. The current exhibition showcases works such as ceramics and cabinetry from across the globe, to help kids explore shapes and colors.


London calling: Saudi cafés and restaurants find footing in UK capital 

Updated 17 July 2025
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London calling: Saudi cafés and restaurants find footing in UK capital 

  • A guide to finding a taste of home on your travels  

LONDON: As the number of Saudi expats and visitors in London continues to grow, it’s no surprise that Saudi-owned brands are rising in popularity in the British capital. So, if you’re planning to make the big move — or just visiting — but you’re concerned about feeling homesick, don’t worry; your favorite cafés are coming with you, making your mornings abroad feel a little more like home. 

Somewhere Café 

Somewhere Café has joint Saudi-Emirati ownership. (Supplied)

If you’ve visited Somewhere Café in the UAE or Saudi Arabia, then you’re already familiar with its unmatched ambiance, food, and décor. With its first UK outlet, the beloved café — which has joint Saudi-Emirati ownership — has brought its signature “home-away-from-home” experience, along with classic Middle Eastern flavors, to London’s premier department store: Harrods. 

“Inspired by our travels, we invite you to experience a piece of our journey. Much like finding a painting and bringing it home as a memento, Somewhere celebrates the unique from everywhere. The space is elegantly well-travelled, with an eclectic touch, showcasing Middle Eastern influences through craft and curation,” co-founder Amal AlMarri told Arab News. 

If you’re craving something beyond the ordinary, Somewhere Café delivers a fusion of flavors that reimagines nostalgic childhood dishes. Its most popular items include beef shawarma rice, kunafa croissant, and guacamole hummus. For lunch or dinner, you might try the crispy, golden shrimp kunafa or indulge in the rich truffle and cheese batata harra.  

To complement its bold menu, the café features a warm, dimly lit interior — a cozy and inviting space to relax with friends and family. Before you leave, the dessert menu — featuring a delectable farak French toast or French coffee baklava — deserves an equal amount of attention. 

Hijazi Corner 

At the helm is Chef Ayman Al-Zubaidi, who has cooked for Saudi royalty and celebrities. (Supplied)

London’s first Saudi restaurant — Hijazi Corner — is a vibrant addition to the city’s dynamic culinary scene. At the helm is Chef Ayman Al-Zubaidi, who has cooked for Saudi royalty and celebrities. The inspiration behind the restaurant? His mother’s kitchen. 

“When any chef starts to speak about food, they talk about their mum. Her chicken kabsa is a bit oily, a bit shiny, and looks amazing — even just talking about it now makes me hungry,” Al-Zubaidi told Arab News last year. “But even if I used the exact same ingredients and followed her method, hers would still taste better.” 

Rooted in tradition, the menu features dishes typically found in Saudi homes — especially Jeddah’s historic Al-Balad district, where Al-Zubaidi grew up. Highlights include chicken seelag, slow-roasted lamb haneeth, and delicate, flaky samboosek. 

In just two years, Hijazi Corner has become one of London’s most sought-after Middle Eastern restaurants — a testament to the deep longing among Saudi expats for authentic flavors from home. 

Qahwah London 

Qahwah London serves a range of traditional desserts such as baklava, kunafa, and basbousa. (Supplied)

For those pining for the traditional, rich, aromatic flavors of Arabic coffee, Qahwah London is exactly what you need, with a wide selection of authentic qahwah options, including a tangy, spiced black coffee or the café’s signature Royal Infusion — a warming blend of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. Feeling hungry? Qahwah London also serves a range of traditional desserts such as baklava, kunafa, and basbousa — the perfect pairing for a steaming cup of Arabic coffee. 

Guests can also book private gatherings for friends and family, or host intimate events like weddings or nikkah ceremonies. As part of its private offerings, the café provides a luxurious setting: rooms adorned with gold-plated coffee cups and an eye-catching assortment of traditional sweets — all designed to create a decadent group experience. 

Diwan Kitchen 

Diwan Kitchen captures a key element of Arab culinary culture: its deeply social nature. (Supplied)

Diwan Kitchen is perfect for Saudis in the UK who are craving not only an authentic bite from home, but the feeling of being back in the Kingdom. It captures a key element of Arab culinary culture: its deeply social nature.  

“We wanted to show people what traditional Saudi dining is like” Adem Nasraddin, co-founder of the restaurant, told Arab News on the restaurant’s opening night in May. “There’s a rhythm to Saudi life. A scent, a pace, a flavor. We bottled that feeling and served it on a plate.” 

The menu takes diners on a journey across the Kingdom, from the Hijaz region, with its rich, tangy foul medammas — served in the center of the table with bread for sharing — to Najd, with jareesh, a hearty stew-like dish topped with fresh meat and vegetables. 

Half Million 

½ M Café is on Oxford Street. (Supplied)

Grab a coffee and a quick bite at Half Million Café on Oxford Street, then stroll over to Hyde Park for the perfect London morning. 

As in its original location in Saudi Arabia, Half Million in London is committed to delivering a “premium coffee experience.” Whether you’re in the mood for a classic breakfast tea or a vibrant red berry infusion, there’s something to satisfy every craving. And when the sun is out, their iced coffees offer the perfect refreshment. The menu — from cakes and sandwiches to freshly baked pastries — is completely halal. 

If you’re after a bold, decadent brew in a sleek, stylish setting, Half Million Café is the ideal stop. With its modern cup designs and curated aesthetic, it’s a chic addition to London’s café scene. 


Mona Khashoggi brings ‘Sinbad the Sailor’ to life on the London stage

Updated 16 July 2025
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Mona Khashoggi brings ‘Sinbad the Sailor’ to life on the London stage

DUBAI: Saudi writer and producer Mona Khashoggi’s latest production, “Sinbad the Sailor,” was staged on Tuesday at London’s Sadler’s Wells Theatre, blending traditional Arab storytelling with contemporary performance. 

The family-friendly dance show was a vibrant reinterpretation of the legendary seafarer’s adventures, inspired by tales from “One Thousand and One Nights” and set in eighth-century Mesopotamia.

Khashoggi is a long-time advocate for reviving Arab arts through international collaborations. (Supplied)

The musical tells the story of Sinbad, who loses his fortune in a card game and goes on a journey to find new treasures. Along the way he faces sea monsters, wild adventures and magical caves. He meets a kind girl and together they find friendship, love and a way back home to Baghdad, where Sinbad inspires a young boy with his stories.

Khashoggi, a long-time advocate for reviving Arab arts through international collaborations, emphasized her decision to work with a global cast. “Because this is a dance show … I wanted the best ballet and contemporary dancers. My dancers are all professional from the Mathew Bourne school, English National Ballet and West End Musicals,” she told Arab News. 

Staging Sinbad in London is part of Khashoggi’s broader mission to spotlight Arab culture for international audiences. (Supplied)

“My lead Mark Samaras is in ‘Moulin Rouge.’ My creatives are from the West End with awards. I wanted to push the bar high and introduce an Arab story,” she added. “Mona Khash Productions is a British production. I always work and produce my shows in London before we tour internationally. London and the West End shows are the center and capital of theater in the world.”

Staging Sinbad in London is part of Khashoggi’s broader mission to spotlight Arab culture for international audiences. 

Traditional songs were gathered from Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Syria, with the audience enjoying original compositions by Emirati composer Ihab Darwish. (Supplied)

“My work and passion is to revive our culture and bring it to a wider audience and international audience. My shows are educational and cultural. The dance and costumes are inspired by stories from ‘1001 Nights,’ set in Mesopotamia in the 8th century, during the era of Haroun El-Rashid and Queen Zubaida,” she said. 

Traditional songs were gathered from Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Syria, with the audience enjoying original compositions by Emirati composer Ihab Darwish.

Director and choreographer Anjali Mehra, whose credits include “Jesus Christ Superstar” and "Lord of the Rings,” said: “The Middle East offers so many exciting social and celebratory dances.
“I was inspired by certain steps, foot rhythms, arm movements and stage patterns. With a mixed heritage cast, we were able to combine modern storytelling dance with classical technique and Arabic steps to bring ‘Sinbad the Sailor’ to life,” Mehra added.


Madinah exhibition showcases local heritage, crafts 

Updated 15 July 2025
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Madinah exhibition showcases local heritage, crafts 

  • Three-day event, which ended on Tuesday, is among several Year of Handicrafts initiatives launched by the Ministry of Culture
  • Elements of heritage were embodied in palm-based crafts including baskets, incense burners, and decorative pieces

RIYADH: The “Arts Telling Stories” exhibition in Madinah showcased the nation’s culture and history through authentic handicrafts.

The three-day event, which ended on Tuesday, is among several “Year of Handicrafts” initiatives launched by the Ministry of Culture, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The exhibition featured a diverse collection of handcrafted creations reflecting the identity of the local community. 

Elements of heritage were embodied in palm-based crafts including baskets, incense burners, and decorative pieces, illustrating the historical bond between people and the environment.

The event also showcased wooden artworks, including decorated boxes, vases, and household items crafted with techniques blending traditional sensibility and modern innovation.

It featured pottery pieces inspired by folk art, drawing from the colors and landscapes of the region’s geography, the SPA reported.

The exhibition reflects the ministry’s efforts to promote traditional arts, foster community awareness, and encourage young people to connect with their cultural roots.


Miniature model helps bring Saudi history to life

Updated 14 July 2025
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Miniature model helps bring Saudi history to life

  • Featuring miniature representations of Saudi cities from the past, these creations transport visitors through time
  • Artist and craft trainer Abdullah Al-Khazam, a native of Hail, presented a clay model of the ancient commercial area of Hail city at the event

RIYADH: The Beit Hail Festival, which runs until July 29, is showcasing unique works which reflect the region’s rich historic archaeological legacy, the Saudi Press Agency has reported.

Featuring miniature representations of Saudi cities from the past, these creations transport visitors through time, highlighting the details of daily life and the beauty of historic architecture.

Artist and craft trainer Abdullah Al-Khazam, a native of Hail, has presented a clay model of the ancient commercial area of Hail city at the event.

The model has attracted the attention of thousands of visitors and illustrates the techniques used to craft such works, enriching the festival’s depiction of the Kingdom’s heritage.

Al-Khazam based the model on historic sources, using precise measurements and conducting field visits. He also consulted historians, researchers, and elderly residents for accuracy.

The model features key landmarks, including Barzan Palace, a mosque, the commercial square, and various government offices, the SPA added.

Built with traditional materials such as clay and palm trunks, the model uses classic construction techniques and incorporates period ornaments and engravings, effectively recreating the city center of the past.


The UK’s longest-running Arab arts festival returns 

Updated 14 July 2025
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The UK’s longest-running Arab arts festival returns 

DHAHRAN: The Liverpool Arab Arts Festival, or LAAF, the UK’s longest-running annual celebration of Arab arts and culture, returns this month with a theme that feels both timely and timeless: “Nostalgia.”

Now two decades in, the festival has grown from grassroots beginnings into an internationally recognized celebration.

Running through to July 20, this year’s program explores how memory, heritage and longing shape artistic expression across the Arab world and its diasporas. 

The dynamic, bilingual line-up spans film, music, literature, performance, food and family activities — all underscored by deeper reflections on identity, loss and cultural continuity.

Arab News spoke with Taher Qassim, originally from Yemen, who founded LAAF in 1998 as a community-led effort to foster cultural pride and preserve Arab identity in Liverpool.

“The theme of ‘nostalgia’ is a reflection of both how far we’ve come and where we began,” Qassim said. “Twenty-three years ago, we set out on a path that was uncertain but filled with excitement and purpose. We knew we wanted to create something that represented the Yemeni and Arab presence in Liverpool, but we didn’t yet know how to express it.”

What began as a handful of cultural activations has since evolved into a platform for Arab artists. “From those humble beginnings … the festival began to blossom,” he said. “Today, we proudly offer a platform to artists from across the Arab world, Europe, the US, and beyond — something we could only have dreamed of.”

Two events stand out for him: ‘Arabs Are Not Funny’ and ‘The Book of Sanaa.’ The former, he says, “directly challenges the long-held stereotype that Arabs lack a sense of humor. It’s refreshing, bold and liberating — exactly what the festival stands for.”

The latter brings together literature, poetry, food, and a model of Yemen’s historic capital.

“The richness of this event would’ve felt like a fantasy to us two decades ago. Now, it’s a reality — something we’ve made possible through years of dedication and community.”

Qassim, who was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 2008 for services to community cohesion, handed over the festival’s leadership to his daughter, Afrah, who now steers LAAF with the same vision and care.

Today, LAAF is no longer seen solely as a festival for the Arab community. “That perception has shifted dramatically,” Qassim said. “People from all backgrounds and ages attend and engage. The festival has become a space for dialogue, curiosity and connection.” As he put it, “Conversations happen naturally — before, during and after events.”

One event he hopes visitors will not miss is the now-iconic “Family Day” at the Palm House in Sefton Park. “It’s become the signature event of the Liverpool Arab Arts Festival — our legacy day,” he said. “Families travel from across the UK, Europe, and even further afield to be part of it. The atmosphere is joyful, welcoming, and truly inclusive … a vibrant, heartwarming celebration of Arab culture at its best.”

Some events require tickets, but “Family Day” — an afternoon of music, crafts, performances and community — is the grand finale and free to all.