An easy way to know your nation

For a small country, the UAE packs in a lot of culture, history and art. In fact, every emirate has a museum dedicated to its antiquities. > Etihad Museum: Chronicling events around UAE’s Union Day in 1971, the building is designed in the shape of a manuscript with seven pillars — each representing pens used by the rulers of different sheikhdoms to sign the union agreement. > Diving Village: A familiar site in Dubai’s historic Al Shindagha district, it has been introducing visitors — with some live demonstrations included — to the country’s age-old maritime practices. > Al Ain Palace Museum: A good one to consider in 2018 — the Year of Zayed. A former residence of the UAE’s founding leader that opened to the public as a museum in 2001, the fort, courtyard and interiors are typical of the region’s historic sites and provide a good insight into the ruler’s life. > Sharjah Natural History Museum: Among the only centres of its kind in the region, the museum has been sharing knowledge and research on the diverse flora and fauna of the Arabian Peninsula. There’s also a botanical museum and animal farm for children. > Bait Al Banat: Translating to ‘the girls’ house’, the Women’s Museum is a great example of UAE’s focus on female empowerment. Founded by Emirati professor, Rafia Ghubash, it showcases the role of women in influencing the nation’s culture and growth.