US travellers lead 40% surge as Abu Dhabi’s Zayed National Museum opens 3rd December 

As Abu Dhabi unveils the highly anticipated Zayed National Museum this week, Expedia data reveals an unprecedented surge in traveller interest – with long-haul American travelers leading a global rush to witness another cultural marvel in the UAE. Global searches on Expedia for Abu Dhabi travel have increased 15% year-over-year.* The United States is leading with a staggering 40% increase in searches for December travel**, while both the UK and France show 10% growth***. “The opening of Zayed National Museum represents a landmark moment for cultural tourism in the region,” said an official from Expedia Group. “We’re seeing travelers from around the world eager to be among the first to experience this world-class institution.”
The museum honors the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, by keeping heritage alive and cultivating a spirit of learning and belonging. It unites the nation’s diverse community around shared milestones and values, providing a window into the UAE’s history and culture. Designed by the renowned Lord Norman Foster of Foster + Partners, its collection features over 3,000 pieces, with 1,500 currently on display, each telling its own story.
Residents as well as international tourists, can expect a groundbreaking blend of archaeological artifacts with cutting-edge audiovisual experiences, sensory installations, and contemporary art.
Insider Picks: Opening Week Hotel Stays
Abu Dhabi has no shortage of iconic stays across the destination. According to Expedia’s recent data, several hotels have seen a similar spike coinciding with the Zayed National Museum opening****, in proximity to the Saadiyat Cultural District, which includes:
Saadiyat Rotana Resort and Villas
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas
Millennium Residences Saadiyat Island
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi
Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi
Culture & Adventure on The Horizon
The Zayed National Museum joins Louvre Abu Dhabi and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi in the Saadiyat Cultural District, with the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi also set to open to guests very soon. This concentration of world-class institutions positions Abu Dhabi as a global hub where heritage and innovation converge.
Data Disclaimers:
*Global data: Based on global searches made on Expedia between August 4, 2025, to November 9, 2025, for travel between December 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.
**US data: Based on searches made on Expedia.com between August 4, 2025, to November 16, 2025 for travel between December 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.
***UK data: Based on searches made on Expedia.co.uk between August 4, 2025, to November 16, 2025 for travel between December 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.
***France data: Based on searches made on Expedia.fr between August 4, 2025, to November 16, 2025 for travel between December 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.
****Hotel popularity data: Based on searches made on Expedia.ae between August 11, 2025 – November 11, 2025, for travel between December 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025, compared to the same period in 2024.