This eclectic collection of artefacts and personal memorabilia documents the life of Sheikh Zayed, the founding father of the Emirates. The collection is housed in a rare assembly of old villas sporting traditional wind towers, on the coast near the new Al Bateen developments. The museum complex, complete with 'Baba' (Father) Zayed's favourite blue Mercedes and beat-up Land Rover, is looking unloved, perhaps in anticipation of the new Zayed National Museum on Saadiyat Island.
The main hall has an interesting set of black-and-white photographs that capture pre–Arab Spring leaders Hosni Mubarak and Colonel Gaddafi. Also on display are various gifts from visiting dignitaries, including a stuffed leopard and anaconda skins. More poignant exhibits include Sheikh Zayed's used cologne bottle, a rifle that guests can handle, and his personal falcon clock.
