Light And Peace Museum Shines Bright In Abu Dhabi
The new Light and Peace Museum in Abu Dhabi is set to welcome visitors starting Wednesday, offering free entry for a limited time. Located within the Dome of Peace at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, this cultural treasure showcases rare Islamic relics and celebrates the rich heritage of Islamic civilisation.
On Tuesday, members of the media were given an exclusive first look at the museum, which is under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. Announcing the opening, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre revealed that the museum will be open daily from 9am to 10pm, with free entry until admission fees are introduced. For more details, visit the Centre’s official website: www.szgmc.gov.ae.
A Vision Of Culture And Heritage
During the media preview, Dr. Yousef Abdullah Al Obaidly, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, shared insights into the museum’s vision. “The Light and Peace Museum is inspired by the UAE’s wise leadership in enriching the cultural landscape of the country and reviving the treasures of Islamic civilisation. This civilisation reflects profound knowledge in science, exceptional craftsmanship, and creativity in arts and literature, while also showcasing the encouragement of science and the arts within Islamic culture,” he said.
Highlights Of The Museum’s Collection
The museum houses an array of rare and historical artefacts, including:
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A section of the Kaaba’s kiswa (20th century)
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The dinar of Abdul Malik ibn Marwan (77AH) — the first Islamic gold coin
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Gold-illuminated Quranic pages from the Blue Quran manuscript (9th-10th century CE)
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Akhbar Mecca, a 14th-century book on the history and heritage of Mecca
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An Andalusian astrolabe (14th century CE)
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Personal items of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan
The exhibits also include artistic, scientific, medical, and decorative works, such as metal, wood, marble, and textile artefacts.
To enhance accessibility, the museum provides content in seven languages: Arabic, English, Chinese, Spanish, French, Russian, and Hindi, with digital screens integrated into the exhibits.
The Dome Of Peace: A Cultural Hub
The museum is part of the Dome of Peace, a new cultural destination at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre. This venue also features:
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A specialised library focusing on Islamic civilisation and arts
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A theatre for religious, national, cultural, and community events
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The Dhiya Experience, an immersive 360-degree presentation that showcases the mosque’s cultural message
Journey Through Five Experiential Spaces
Visitors to the museum are guided through five interconnected sections, each offering a unique narrative:
1. The Values Of Tolerance – The Light Within
This section highlights the UAE’s long-standing values of tolerance and coexistence, rooted in its history and championed by the late Sheikh Zayed. It reflects the guiding principles that continue to shape the nation’s future.
2. Sanctity And Worship – The Three Mosques
This space celebrates the three sacred mosques: Al-Masjid Al-Haram, Al-Masjid Al-Nabawi, and Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa. Through interactive displays, visitors can explore their architectural elements, social roles, and historical significance.
3. Beauty And Mastery – The Spirit Of Creativity
Here, the focus is on the scientific and artistic achievements of Islamic civilisation. Visitors can marvel at intricate calligraphy, handcrafted artefacts, historical manuscripts, and contemporary artworks by Emirati and international artists.
4. Tolerance And Openness
This section explores the concept of tolerance as embodied by the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Visitors learn about the mosque’s architecture and the vision of Sheikh Zayed in fostering a culture of coexistence.
5. Unity And Coexistence
Inspired by the mosque’s floral designs and diverse cultural influences, this section emphasizes the universal message of unity and harmony.
Don’t Miss This Cultural Experience
The Light and Peace Museum is more than just a showcase of artefacts; it’s a journey through the cultural, artistic, and scientific achievements of Islamic civilisation. With its free entry period, this is the perfect time to explore this inspiring new destination in Abu Dhabi.