Inside the Louvre Abu Dhabi

Inside the Louvre Abu Dhabi in pictures: Highly anticipated and after ten years in the making, it is with great excitement that the Louvre Abu Dhabi will finally open its doors this weekend - November 11th, 2017. I managed to get a sneak peek at what's in store so I'm sharing my pictures below - but don't worry, I won't spoil all the surprises...!

Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, the building in itself is a work of art before you even get to any of the artworks! You'll want to spend some time walking around under the incredible dome - the unique use of light is a marvel and the atmosphere it creates is quite magical.

Thirteen French museums including the original Louvre in Paris have come together to loan artworks to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, both to form part of the permanent collection and for temporary exhibits. These museums should perhaps collectively be referred to as the 'French Art Hall of Fame' and include Centré Pompidou, Musée Rodin, Château De Versailles and Musée d'Orsay to name just four of these heavyweights of the art world.

Even within the gallery spaces, Jean Nouvel's architectural genius shines through and it's hard not to look at the gallery and building features themselves as part of the art work. But that's exactly his plan - for the grandeur of the building to lend itself and meld perfectly with the importance of the displays and artefacts within.

A walk through the galleries will transport you through different periods in history, each gallery telling its own story that links smoothly to the next.

And don't forget to turn the corner as you exit the final gallery to visit the works under the dome and outdoor exhibits and spaces.

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Beyond the ancient artefacts (there are numerous significant pieces - oldests, firsts and world famous) you'll also see photography (including the first known picture of an Arab veiled lady) and many more well-known works by artists including Leonardo Da Vinci, Giacometti, Gauguin, Magritte, Mondrian, Pollock, Rothko, Van Gogh and many, many more.

In short, the Louvre is everything we've waited for and even more - it exceeds expectations and can't fail to impress.

NOTE: 12 galleries make up the museum and these stretch across a whopping 55 buildings so make sure to wear comfy shoes. Also note that due to temperature control to protect and maintain the exhibits it may be chilly inside.

Find out more and book tickets online at LouvreAbuDhabi.ae.