National Auto Museum

المتحف الوطني للسيارات

Located in Al Ain, this unique museum houses an extraordinary collection of over 200 vintage, classic, and exotic automobiles collected by Sheikh Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan. It showcases automotive history and innovation through meticulously preserved vehicles ranging from early American cars to custom creations.

Things to do

• Explore the Main Exhibition Hall — Walk through the vast climate-controlled warehouse displaying over 200 vehicles arranged chronologically, from 1886 Ford Model T replicas to contemporary supercars and custom creations.
• View the Gold-Plated Mercedes-Benz — Examine one of the museum's most iconic pieces, a Mercedes-Benz covered in 24-karat gold leaf, showcasing Sheikh Hamad's passion for automotive customization.
• Study Rare American Classics — Discover meticulously restored vintage American automobiles including Cadillacs, Chevrolets, and Studebakers that represent the golden age of American automotive design.
• Photograph the Custom Creations — Document Sheikh Hamad's unique custom-built vehicles and experimental designs that blend engineering innovation with artistic vision.
• Learn About Automotive History — Study the evolution of vehicle technology, design trends, and cultural significance through the carefully curated collection spanning over a century of automotive development.

Food to try

• Al Ain Fresh Date Juice — Sample freshly pressed juice from dates grown in Al Ain's famous oases, a refreshing local beverage commonly served at nearby cafes and restaurants.
• Camel Meat Shawarma — Try the regional specialty of slow-roasted camel meat served in traditional pita bread with garlic sauce and vegetables, reflecting Emirati culinary heritage.
• Luqaimat with Date Syrup — Enjoy these traditional Emirati fried dough balls drizzled with date syrup and sprinkled with sesame seeds, a beloved sweet treat throughout the UAE.
• Al Ain Mineral Water and Local Coffee — Experience the region's famous naturally sourced mineral water paired with traditional strong Arabic coffee served in small cups without handles.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Photography Rules — Always ask permission before photographing, as the museum has specific guidelines regarding flash photography and personal photography in certain sections.
• Dress Appropriately — Wear modest clothing respecting Emirati customs, with shoulders and knees covered, especially when visiting during prayer times when the museum may have adjusted hours.
• Plan Your Visit Around Peak Hours — Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the collection in less congested conditions, as weekends attract many local and international visitors.
• Understand Sheikh Hamad's Vision — Recognize that this is a private collection reflecting one man's passion rather than a traditional public museum, so the arrangement and focus reflect the collector's personal automotive interests and legacy.