Native Plants in the UAE | Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation

New Exhibits

There are three new exhibits that just started at the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation on the last week of February. Since this is at the same building as the Children's Library, we already got the chance to visit two of the three.

I shared the colorful transitions of the seasons last week in Through the Seasons with Eric Carle. On the same afternoon, we passed by the other exhibit, Native Plants, but we did not have enough time since it was already time to go home. We decided that we would come back on our next Library Day.

Native Plants in the UAE

Location: 1/F Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation
Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi, UAE
On from Thursday, 22 February 2024 until Sunday, 1 September 2024
Minimum Age: All ages
Entry Fee: Free

Not a typical botanical garden

You would wonder, what is there to expect from a plant exhibit that is presented inside of a building? This exhibit isn't your typical botanical garden stroll. It's a creative fusion of art and science, showcasing the UAE's incredible native flora. Meaning, there really aren't actual plants and trees, of course.

The exhibit features a curated collection of art installations and informative displays that use creative mediums to showcase these plants.

When we entered the venue, the first reaction was "Woooahhh! This is so trippy," words from my kids. LOL

Mangroves, 2024

This section of the exhibit features mixed media art by artist, Mattia Gambardella.

It focuses on the mangroves, plants that are abundant in Abu Dhabi's coastal areas. A few years back, when it was fairly new, we went to walk in the midst of mangroves at the Al Jubail Mangrove Park. It was so refreshing to be walking in the so close to the mangroves, and the ecosystem that's created within. But this one from the exhibit is a whole other level.

This section was surrounded by lights and mirrors. The reflection from the mirrors make the place look big. The bridges on both sides seem wide, yet it was only because of the reflection. Pretty cool.

The Iconic Ghaf Tree

The Ghaf Tree is the national tree of the UAE. It is regarded so, because of its historic and cultural symbol of stability and peace in the UAE’s desert environment. It is a tree that could withstand the harsh conditions of the desert, being drought-resilient.

They could be found in many parks that are scattered across the city. They provide shelter to people and many animals and protect them in the hot desert climate.

Now imagine lying underneath a Ghaf tree on a beautiful sun lounge. Well honestly, it could be quite uncomfortable even in a desert situation, even with a nice recliner. However, this experience was made possible by this exhibit.

Little Man chilling underneath the graf tree.

At the right wing of the exhibit, could be found a display of the other plants and flowers that could be found in the UAE. The visitors could even lie down and watch the video explainer on the TV installed overhead.

Other curated arts

Along the walls were different art pieces that feature the country's flora. They were of different mediums - from digital photography, to embroidery, and just even pencil drawings.

Some art pieces were craft pieces like this sort of a "curtain" on the wall, which also featured another plant (which I failed to note the name).

Sorry again, I focused on the art, and not the name of the flower! ✌️

We could not help but admire that intricacy of this embroidery.

Of course, there were also digital arts on display, like this:

I was a bit surprised that it was the first time for my kids to experience this kind of picture. Not sure what this is actually called, but it is that which changes the images when viewed from different angles.

Anyway, it's something like this:

Again, the word for the day from my kids, "trippy".

There were lots of them, but this one struck me most. I think the sunset (or sunrise) gave it a dramatic effect. Let's take a moment to admire this wonderful shot.

The Dates Palm Tree

Apart from the other plants that were featured and displayed on the walls of the left wing of the exhibit, the main focal point of this side was this small dune with a dates palm tree growing on it.

Behind it was a short video presentation with narration on how the dates palm tree became an important part of the life of the people of the UAE since the earlier times. It showed how they used various parts of the tree on their livelihood, including the making of ropes that were used in their fishing nets.

And just like that, we were able to have an adventure across the various landscapes of the UAE, and observe its native plants and trees. We learned how these plants also help the UAE take shape into what it is now. Each plant had its story – how it adapted to the harsh sun and scarce water, how its color and size were shaped by the environment, and its role in the UAE's ecosystem.

The interactive and visually appealing displays made it a more enjoyable visit. If you're in Abu Dhabi and have an appreciation for nature and art, this exhibit is a must-see. It's open until September 1st, so don't miss out on this unique opportunity to discover the hidden wonders of the UAE's plant life!

While you're there, be sure to also check out

Through The Seasons With Eric Carle which is also on until August 22nd this year.

There is another exhibit happening, which we may check out in our next Library day, so stay tuned!

_{All photos are owned by the author unless stated otherwise.}