A series of diversely-themed exhibitions, as well as the lure of its ever-expanding permanent collection, led to more than 1.2 million visitors at Louvre Abu Dhabi during the year 2023.
The numbers included more than 500 officials and dignitaries, including Heads of State, ministers, ambassadors, internationally recognised artists and world-renowned celebrities.
As many as 72 per cent of Louvre Abu Dhabi visitors were from foreign countries and the remaining 28 per cent were UAE residents. The majority of the overseas visitors were from key growth markets including Russia, India, France, the US, China, Germany, Italy, Kazakhstan and the UK.
The museum also witnessed an increased number of visitors to the Children’s Museum and greater engagement with its school and university programmes.
Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, commented: “Louvre Abu Dhabi was established as part of our duty to deliver exceptional cultural institutions and experiences for all residents and visitors to the emirate.
“We are proud to see the impact that this museum has had in its six years of operation, with continually increasing visitor numbers reflecting the strength of its collection, special exhibitions, and community programmes.”
Five exhibitions were held in 2023 at Louvre Abu Dhabi. These were Bollywood Superstars: A Short Story of Indian Cinema; Letters of Light; Cartier: Islamic Inspiration and Modern Design; Picturing the Cosmos in the Children’s Museum, and Louvre Abu Dhabi Art Here 2023.
Louvre Abu Dhabi also made notable acquisitions and loans during the year, including two Picasso paintings (Woman Holding a Mandoline, 1911; and Portrait of a Seated Woman, 1923), Les Marionnettes by Jean-Honoré Fragonard (1770), and four sculptures titled Four Parts of the World on loan from Château de Versailles.
In commemorating the 50-year anniversary of the diplomatic relationship between the UAE and Malta, the museum received two loans known as cippi from the National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta and Musée du Louvre.
Manuel Rabaté, Director at Louvre Abu Dhabi, said: “It is inspiring to witness such growth in visitation, a testament to how Louvre Abu Dhabi is showcasing Abu Dhabi’s rich and diverse cultural landscape. Our museum weaves together the power of collaboration and intercultural dialogue, offering our visitors a glimpse into diverse civilisations and artistic traditions.
“The interest from our visitors, reflected in the numbers achieved and our unique storytelling, showcases our commitment to excellence in the global cultural landscape.”
Louvre Abu Dhabi’s Children’s Museum also saw significant activity. As many as 231,493 visitors attended the two exhibitions, Picturing the Cosmos and Emotions! The New Art Adventure, at the dedicated children’s museum.
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