Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.0/5)
A truly unique automotive experience nestled in the desert sands of Al Dhafra, the Emirates National Auto Museum is a testament to one man's passion for vehicles. Housing over 200 cars from the personal collection of His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, this pyramid-shaped museum offers visitors a glimpse into an eclectic array of automobiles, from classic American muscle cars to custom-built off-roaders.
Highlights:
Diverse Collection: The museum boasts a wide range of vehicles, including the Sheikh's famous "Rainbow Collection" of Mercedes-Benz cars, each painted in a different hue.
Record-Breaking Exhibits: Marvel at the world's largest motorized model car—a 4:1 scale replica of a Willys Jeep—and the massive Dodge Power Wagon, both of which are fully functional.
Photogenic Exterior: Before even entering, visitors are greeted by a retired passenger jet and the iconic globe-shaped mobile home, offering ample photo opportunities.
Considerations:
Remote Location: Situated approximately 45 kilometers south of Abu Dhabi city, reaching the museum requires a bit of a drive through the desert.
Limited Amenities: The museum lacks on-site dining options, so it's advisable to bring your own refreshments.
Maintenance: Some vehicles show signs of wear, and additional informational placards could enhance the visitor experience.
Visitor Tips:
Operating Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Admission: Entry fee is AED 50, with free admission for children under 10.
Best Time to Visit: To avoid the midday heat, consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon.
Final Thoughts: The Emirates National Auto Museum offers a fascinating journey through automotive history and innovation. While it may not have the polish of more conventional museums, its unique exhibits and the sheer passion behind the collection make it a must-visit for car enthusiasts and curious...
Read moreI have visited the Emirates National Auto Museum twice, once in 2016 and again in 2023. The museum houses an impressive collection of cars from various countries, making it an automobile enthusiast's paradise. However, I have noticed some areas that could use improvement during my recent visit.
The biggest disappointment was that, during my 2023 visit, there were no noticeable modifications to the interiors compared to my previous visit in 2016. It seems like the museum has not invested in updating or enhancing the exhibits, including the unchanged AC system. I was hoping to see some progress over the years, but sadly, that was not the case.
Another letdown was the condition of the flight that I had the privilege to visit in 2016. During my recent visit, I found it damaged, which was disheartening to see.
One issue that might contribute to the museum's limited popularity is the lack of proper marketing and advertising efforts. As a result, the number of visitors seems to be quite low, possibly due to the museum's remote location.
The ticket price of AED 55 seems a bit steep when considering the lack of updates and exhibits. I believe the museum should reconsider its pricing strategy to offer visitors a fairer experience based on what they see and get from their visit.
In summary, the Emirates National Auto Museum boasts an impressive collection of cars from around the world, which is its main highlight. However, the lack of improvements and maintenance on exhibits, coupled with insufficient marketing efforts, hinder the overall experience. I hope the management considers investing more in updating and maintaining the museum's attractions to provide a better experience for...
Read moreThere are loads of amazing museums in Abu Dhabi and Emirates National Auto Machine is one.
Emirates National Auto Museum is home to a huge collection of vehicles and other interesting attractions unlike anything else in the UAE.
Located on the Abu Dhabi – Liwa Road, this unique museum hosts Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan’s personal collection of vehicles.
Chances are you’ll see the museum before you get there with its large pyramid shape emerging over the horizon as you drive up.
Before you even go inside there’s plenty to see including a giant Jeep that’s actually an apartment as well as a retired British Caledonian jumbo jet.
Let’s be honest it’s an Instagram dream and that’s all before you step inside.
After taking your snaps you can head in and explore the collection of more than 200 vehicles.
There’s everything from off-road vehicles and classic American cars, to the Sheikh's Mercedes rainbow collection and the world's largest truck.
A huge number of customized one-off vehicles form part of the collection to alongside military vehicles and more.
Petrol heads could spend all day staring at the collection, in fact the museum featured in an episode of Top Gear in the past.
The museum is a great stopping point if you’re heading to Liwa or if you fancy a day trip from Abu Dhabi.
So, if you’re still looking for a unique day trip, put this in...
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