Etihad Modern Art Gallery, Abu Dhabi - A white house with palm trees in front of it
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Etihad Modern Art Gallery Abu Dhabi

4.4
·190 reviews·Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

A unique art gallery and cafe in a renovated villa, showcasing modern local & international artists with a creative vibe.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
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Etihad Modern Art Gallery, Abu Dhabi - A white house with palm trees in front of it

Etihad Modern Art Gallery Abu Dhabi

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A unique art gallery and cafe in a renovated villa, showcasing modern local & international artists with a creative vibe.

4.4
(190 reviews)

"So viby place. You feel like you traveled to Asia, somewhere in Bali or so. [^Review]"

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TIP

🎨 Explore the Villa Setting

Discover art within a beautifully renovated villa, offering a unique and intimate gallery experience.

☕ Sip & Paint

Enjoy drinks and meals at the attached cafe, with options to paint your own plate or bottle!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Diverse Art Collections

Diverse Art Collections

Experience a curated mix of modern Islamic and European art, featuring talented local and international artists.

Instagram
The Art House Cafe

The Art House Cafe

Enjoy a creative atmosphere with tasty drinks and meals, often accompanied by inspiring music and art.

Reddit
Unique Souvenirs

Unique Souvenirs

Browse a selection of art prints, catalogues, and unique pieces for sale, perfect for a memorable takeaway.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Discover Abu Dhabi's Artistic Heart

Explore the vibrant Etihad Modern Art Gallery, a gem in Abu Dhabi's art scene. This unique space showcases local and international artists, offering a creative escape. Plan your visit to immerse yourself in diverse artistic expressions and perhaps find a unique souvenir.

Beyond the Louvre: Artful Exploration

While the Louvre Abu Dhabi is a must-see, don't overlook the intimate charm of the Etihad Modern Art Gallery. It's a fantastic spot to discover emerging artists and experience a more local art vibe, often praised for its unique atmosphere and curated collections. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, live music
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

How to plan a great day in Abu Dhabi, because I honestly don’t know why Dubai gets so much more attention 😝 #abudhabi #uae #emirates #abudhabitiktok
@bykajaa
13.7K likes • 357.2K views

🎨 Explore the Villa Setting

Discover art within a beautifully renovated villa, offering a unique and intimate gallery experience. Reddit

☕ Sip & Paint

Enjoy drinks and meals at the attached cafe, with options to paint your own plate or bottle! TikTok

Abu Dhabi is not necessarily a place that is often associated with antiques, but have you ever checked out this little treasure...? @etihadgallery in Al Bateen is an amazing little treasure trove of Islamic and European antiques - most of which are for sale. Part shop, part museum, a whole host of curiosities await - along with a family of 10 cats (that are not for sale)! . . #arabiannotes #abudha...
arabiannotes
268 likes • 0 views
Some of the gorgeous Islamic artwork at the @etihadgallery yesterday. It was packed with inspiration 💕 *MashAllah* #designeresratravels بعض الأعمال الإسلامية في معرض الاتحاد للانتيك
esrastea
146 likes • 0 views

🐈 Meet the Resident Cats

You might even meet some of the gallery's friendly feline residents! Instagram

🖼️ Art for Sale

Many pieces are available for purchase, offering a chance to own unique artwork. Reddit

#abudhabi @etihadgallery #artist #artshow #uaelife #uae #exibition
salim_guess_
64 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎨 Explore the Villa Setting

Discover art within a beautifully renovated villa, offering a unique and intimate gallery experience. Reddit

☕ Sip & Paint

Enjoy drinks and meals at the attached cafe, with options to paint your own plate or bottle! TikTok

🐈 Meet the Resident Cats

You might even meet some of the gallery's friendly feline residents! Instagram

🖼️ Art for Sale

Many pieces are available for purchase, offering a chance to own unique artwork. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(190 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Etihad Modern Art Gallery for its unique, 'vibey' atmosphere, often compared to a tranquil escape. The diverse collection of modern art, featuring talented local and international artists, is a major draw, as is the charming Art House Cafe. Many appreciate the opportunity to purchase artwork and the welcoming, intimate setting of the renovated villa.

"I mean…that was a beautiful experience! So viby place. You feel like you traveled to Asia, somewhere in Bali or so. We liked the music and atmosphere. Also nice menu, and tasty drinks! You’ve got things to see and do. Just best place ever, you have a plate or bottle to paint on + drinks/meals and nice music and magical arts around! Wow
Isha and Nishana (sorry if I wrote it wrong) were our waitresses, they are amazingly sweet and helpful, thank you"

Diana Votchel

"I visited the gallery and explored the artwork on display. The pieces by Rakan Khzam were truly remarkable, he is both a talented and knowledgeable artist. Despite my late visit, he took the time to explain everything in the gallery, including works by other artists that weren’t present. It was inspiring to see an artist so dedicated to his craft, staying on top of his work until the very last moment."

George Eidmouni

"Beautiful place to visit, I will consider buying a painting some day. I especially liked the works of Silvia Sidorov, she is so talented and her style is sophisticated."

Sonesh Chattlani

What People Like

Vibrant and relaxing atmosphere
Diverse art collections
Creative Art House Cafe

What People Dislike

Occasional difficulty finding parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The gallery is located in the Al Bateen area of Abu Dhabi. It's often described as a 'cute little place in a villa'. Reddit While public transport options exist, many visitors find taxis or ride-sharing services convenient for reaching this specific location. Parking might be available nearby, but it's advisable to check local conditions upon arrival.

It's situated in a renovated villa, which adds to its charm but might make it slightly less obvious than a large commercial building. Keep an eye out for signage, and consider using GPS navigation. Reddit

If you're coming from popular spots like the Louvre Abu Dhabi or the Grand Mosque, a taxi or ride-sharing service is generally the most efficient. The journey time will vary depending on traffic. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the gallery itself is often free, allowing visitors to browse the exhibitions. However, specific events or workshops might have separate admission fees. It's always a good idea to check their official social media or website for the latest information. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially as exhibitions change. It's recommended to check their social media pages or contact them directly for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. Instagram

Yes, a significant aspect of the Etihad Modern Art Gallery is that all artwork on display is for sale. This provides a fantastic opportunity to acquire unique pieces from talented artists. Reddit

The gallery frequently hosts new exhibitions, showcasing both local and international artists. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements about upcoming events and featured artists. Instagram

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

The gallery features a diverse range of modern art, including Islamic and European styles. You'll find works by talented local and international artists, with exhibitions changing regularly. InstagramReddit

Yes, there's a creative cafe attached to the gallery, often referred to as the Art House Cafe. It's a great spot to relax, enjoy drinks and meals, and soak in the artistic ambiance. Reddit

Some visitors have mentioned the option to paint on plates or bottles, adding a fun, interactive element to the cafe experience. TikTok

Absolutely! It's a highly recommended spot for anyone interested in modern art, offering a more intimate and personal experience compared to larger institutions. Reddit

The gallery is housed in a beautifully renovated villa, creating a unique and 'vibey' atmosphere. Some visitors even mention the presence of friendly resident cats. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but it's always best to be respectful of the art and other visitors. Some artists or specific exhibitions might have restrictions, so look for any posted signs. Instagram

The unique architecture of the renovated villa, the vibrant artwork itself, and the creative ambiance of the cafe all offer great photo opportunities. Instagram

Using hashtags like #EtihadModernArtGallery, #AbuDhabiArt, #UAEArt, and #ArtGallery can help connect your photos with a wider audience. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Etihad Modern Art Gallery offers a unique and engaging experience for families. The Art House Cafe provides a relaxed setting with tasty treats, and the interactive element of potentially painting on plates or bottles can be a fun activity for children. TikTok While the art itself might be more suited for older children and teens, the overall atmosphere is welcoming and less formal than larger museums, making it a more approachable art outing for families looking for something different. The gallery's manageable size also means it won't overwhelm younger visitors.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Etihad Modern Art Gallery is a fantastic find. Entry to the gallery is often free, allowing you to soak in the art without an admission fee. Reddit The Art House Cafe offers reasonably priced refreshments and meals, providing a more affordable dining option compared to many other establishments in Abu Dhabi. Reddit Furthermore, the gallery offers art prints and catalogues for sale at more accessible prices, allowing you to take home a piece of Abu Dhabi's art scene without breaking the bank. Reddit

🎨 Art Aficionados

Art lovers will find the Etihad Modern Art Gallery a true gem. Its curated collection of modern Islamic and European art, featuring both local and international talents, offers a rich visual experience. Instagram The opportunity to interact with artists, when present, and learn about their work adds a deeply personal dimension to the visit. [^Review] With frequently changing exhibitions, there's always a reason for repeat visits to discover new artists and styles. The gallery's intimate setting within a renovated villa provides a more personal and contemplative environment for appreciating art. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistic Vibe and Atmosphere

The Etihad Modern Art Gallery is celebrated for its unique and 'vibey' atmosphere, often compared to a tranquil escape in places like Bali. TikTok Visitors frequently mention the pleasant music and the overall ambiance that makes it a relaxing yet inspiring place to spend time. The gallery is housed in a beautifully renovated villa, which contributes significantly to its intimate and charming feel, setting it apart from more conventional exhibition spaces. Reddit

This distinctive setting encourages visitors to linger, appreciate the art at their own pace, and enjoy the creative energy. It's a place where art, music, and a welcoming environment converge, making it a memorable experience for all who visit. The combination of curated art and a thoughtfully designed space creates a truly immersive artistic journey. Instagram

Discovering Artists and Their Work

The gallery is a platform for both established and emerging artists, showcasing a diverse range of modern art, including Islamic and European influences. Instagram Visitors have specifically praised the works of artists like Rakan Khzam and Silvia Sidorov, highlighting their talent and sophisticated styles. [^Review] The artists themselves, when present, are often noted for their willingness to engage with visitors, sharing insights into their creative process and the pieces on display. This personal interaction adds significant value to the gallery experience. [^Review]

Exhibitions at Etihad Modern Art Gallery change frequently, ensuring there's always something new to discover. Reddit This dynamic nature means that each visit can offer a fresh perspective and introduce you to different artistic voices. The gallery's commitment to showcasing a variety of artists makes it a vital hub for Abu Dhabi's contemporary art scene, offering a glimpse into the region's creative pulse.

The Art House Cafe Experience

Attached to the gallery is the Art House Cafe, which complements the artistic theme with its own creative offerings. Visitors rave about the tasty drinks and meals, as well as the enjoyable music that enhances the overall atmosphere. Reddit It's described as a place where you can truly 'feel like you traveled to Asia, somewhere in Bali or so.' [^Review]

A unique aspect of the cafe experience is the opportunity for interactive creativity, with mentions of being able to paint on plates or bottles. TikTok This hands-on activity, combined with the delicious food and drinks, makes the cafe a destination in itself, perfect for a relaxed break or a creative afternoon. It's an ideal spot to reflect on the art you've seen or simply unwind in a beautifully curated environment.

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