The Emirates National Auto Museum is a hidden gem for car enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. This museum, located in Al Dhafra, just a short drive from Abu Dhabi city, houses a remarkable collection of over 200 unique vehicles, ranging from the first prototype of a vehicle ever built to American muscle cars, European classics, and movie set vehicles. The museum is a journey through time, showcasing the evolution of automobiles and the stories behind each artefact.
Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by a massive globe-shaped recreational vehicle with seven bedrooms across three floors, setting the bar high for the adventure ahead. The museum is a personal collection of Sheikh Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan and each exhibit tells a story of innovation and craftsmanship. Visitors can explore replicas of historical vehicles, such as the 15-foot-tall Willys Jeep, which earned a Guinness World Record as the largest motorized vehicle in the world in 2010.
The museum takes guests on a journey through history, starting with the first petrol station pumps constructed in the UAE, providing a glimpse into how fuel tanks were filled in the past. Visitors can marvel at a horseless carriage, a 1915 Ford Model T Brass-Era Speedster, adorned with brass parts and featuring innovative engineering for its time. The museum also showcases hundred-year-old cars, including the oldest Ford vehicles, preserving the heritage of the automotive industry in the region.
The museum is divided into sections that highlight different eras and styles of vehicles. From early petrol stations and vintage cars manufactured nearly 100 years ago to American muscle cars, European elegance, and compact vehicles, the Emirates National Auto Museum offers a diverse array of exhibits. Visitors can explore American classics like Ford, Cadillac, and Dodge, as well as European beauties from Mercedes, BMW, and Rolls Royce, transporting them back to the heyday of these iconic brands.
One of the museum’s highlights is the rainbow-colored Mercedes Benz 500 SELs, a striking display of German craftsmanship and luxury. The museum also features a section dedicated to vehicles commonly seen in Hollywood films, including American police cars, city taxis, and vintage cars. Visitors can even spot a prototype of the first vehicle ever made by Carl Benz in 1885, showcasing the evolution of automotive technology over the centuries.
In addition to the impressive collection of cars, the museum also features a balcony section with smaller vehicles, offering a contrast to the grandeur of the larger exhibits. Near the exit, visitors can see a restored mobile Adnoc petrol station, showcasing the essential role of fueling carts with donkeys in the early days of the UAE. The museum also hosts an abandoned three-engine Douglas plane, a piece of aviation history that adds to the allure of the collection.
The Emirates National Auto Museum is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone looking for an intriguing and educational experience. With its diverse collection of vehicles, rich history, and unique exhibits, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of automobiles and the stories behind these timeless treasures. Whether you’re a car lover or simply curious about the evolution of transportation, this museum promises to captivate and enlighten visitors of all ages.
