Located in the city of Abu Dhabi, the Emirates National Auto Museum is unlike any other museum in the world. One will not find any plaques containing information, no audio guides or brochures. There is no set exhibit. This is because the automobiles here must be free to roll out at a moment’s notice upon the wishes of the owner, Sheikh Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, famously known as the ‘Rainbow Sheikh’. All the vehicles at the auto museum belong to the Sheikh and his nickname comes from the colourful insignia that adorns many of the motor vehicles in his collection.
Every vehicle on display comes from the Sheikh’s personal collection and there are over two hundred trucks and cars in total. The ‘museum’ building is a giant pyramid which was purpose built to house all the vehicles. The auto museum is not just for car lovers; its quirky nature gives it a broader appeal. For instance, visitors pulling into the parking lot are greeted by a gigantic Mercedes monster truck. This behemoth is situated right outside the entrance, although it can hardly compare to some of the other vehicles here. Most notably the replica of a Dodge Power Wagon, which weighs over fifty tonnes, contains four bedrooms, and is roughly eight times the size of the original!
Some are one of a kind vehicles found nowhere else on the planet, while others are common automobiles with uncommon fittings. Nearly all the vehicles here have been outfitted with all the modern conveniences such as refrigerators and televisions. There is also a large collection of military vehicles, some of which children are allowed to climb into. The auto museum is approximately an hour’s drive south of Abu Dhabi, and is open daily. However, the opening hours can vary so those planning on visiting should call ahead and find out what time the museum is open.
Visitors to the UAE can live in style in one of the many Abu Dhabi luxury hotels. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is one of the best luxury Abu Dhabi hotels in the region and will make guests feel like royalty.
