ABSTRACT
Faced with the challenges of globalization, which many believe creates homogeneity and loss of uniqueness and identity, the emirate of Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates is in the process of positioning itself as an international tourist destination with an estimated $27 billion-development project on Saadiyat Island that includes museums, hotels, resorts, golf courses and housing that will accommodate around 145,000 residents. An important component of Saadiyat Island is its Cultural District, which will include the Sheikh Zayed National Museum, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Performing Arts Centre. It appears that a major goal of this district is to jumpstart cultural tourism and to aid in the development of the local economy. Providing an overview of Saadiyat Island’s Cultural District, this chapter reflects upon the role of the museum in emerging Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) cities, and analyzes these museum initiatives, designed in part to develop the local economy.
