Foundations of a grand union

Take a step back in time and learn about the founding of the UAE at Dubai’s newest museum

Acane. Sunglasses. A passport. These seemingly inconspicuous items may not hold much meaning alone but together they form part of a remarkable collection at Etihad Museum. For the first time visitors are able to see some of the most important relics of the UAE’s founding, tracing historic milestones through a variety of interactive displays.

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A 3D film, displaying the meeting between the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Apparently, tourists have been known to exit the film room crying, overwhelmed with emotion.

A taxidermied

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Located next to Union House – where the signing of the treaty establishing the UAE took place in 1971 – Etihad Museum is designed in the shape of a manuscript, with seven columns representing the pens used to sign the original declaration. And while undoubtedly architecturally stunning above ground, the true magic happens as you travel down the steps to the museum. Tours start with the falcon, the UAE’s national symbol.

The Union Tree: a tree planted by Sheikh Mohammed in 2013.

The Celebration Screen: a powerful

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private photograph collection of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, shot by well-known photographer Oscar Mitri. Rounding the corner, you’ll pass by a tree planted by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2012 – which the museum chose to preserve and build a beautiful courtyard around.

Then you’ll travel through the main hall, where seven display of photos, music and snippets of info about the UAE and where it is today.

The Ruler of Ajman’s original passport (right).

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photos of the founders of the UAE look on at you. You’ll also find a collection of their personal belongings. It even houses Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum’s Holy Quran. Perhaps the most impressive item is an original copy of the UAE Constitution.

Other exhibitions depict the history of the UAE currency, passport, national anthem, flag and national icon (the falcon), all leading towards the aptly-named Celebration Screen where a series of incredible photos tell the story of the UAE.

Etihad Museum, 1 Jumeira Road, Dubai, daily 10am to 6pm, Dhs25. Tel: (04) 5155771. Taxi: Jumeirah Mosque. etihadmuseum. dubaiculture.ae