Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
Al Maqta Museum, one of Adu Dhabi's most significant historical landmarks, has officially reopened after undergoing extensive renovations by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Abu Dhabi Police.
The museum is located within Al Maqta Fort, in the heart of the Maqta Conservation Area, which includes historical buildings and structures that reflect the various stages of Abu Dhabi's urban development.
As early as 1761, Sheikh Dhiyab bin Isa Al Nahyan, then Sheikh of the Bani Yas tribe from the inland Liwa Oasis, made frequent visits to Abu Dhabi Island.
As the island grew, it was important to strengthen Abu Dhabi's defences. Sheikh Shakhbut bin Dhiyab bin Isa Al Nahyan oversaw construction of Al Maqta Tower in the late 18th century, to protect the Maqta Crossing between Abu Dhabi Island and the mainland.
In the 1950s, the museum's current building served as a customs house and police station, playing a key role in monitoring movement between the mainland and Abu Dhabi Island, prior to the construction of Maqta Bridge, the first bridge to connect the island to surrounding areas.
The bridge complemented the role of Al Maqta Tower, the first fort built to guard the waterway crossing.
The tower still stands tall today in the middle of Khor Al Maqta, marking the site of the first defence structure securing the channel.
A visit to the museum offers a glimpse of Abu Dhabi's defence history, with a focus on the strategic significance of the fort, the city's defence and police force.
Some of the exhibits include old police patrol vehicles and official uniforms, as well as restored artifacts from the beginnings of Abu Dhabi Police.
It's a must for history lovers.
The museum is open daily and entry is free.
