Abu Dhabi Children’s Library and a new theatre at the Cultural Foundation are set to open this month (September 4) after a significant expansion, according to the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) – Abu Dhabi.

The launch of these two projects follows an extensive investment in rehabilitating the Cultural Foundation, as part of the development of the Al Hosn cultural site in downtown Abu Dhabi. The library and theatre will provide additional learning and performance spaces for the city and going forward will play a major role in Abu Dhabi’s programme of cultural events, said a Wam news agency report.

 Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “The completion of the refurbishment marks a new chapter for the emirate’s cultural scene, and it is our hope that the addition of the Abu Dhabi Children’s Library and the renovation of the theatre will empower our society, through the tools of education, professional development and artistic expression, for many years to come.”

 The Abu Dhabi Children’s Library is spread over three floors, with the 5,250-sq-m facility divided into several age-appropriate social spaces.

 Designed with inspiration from pop-up books in mind, the library boasts several three-dimensional learning and play spaces in which children can physically immerse themselves to become part of a story. Featuring exciting and colourful designs, each floor has a different design concept reflecting the rich and diverse landscapes of the UAE. The library is expected to become a valuable resource for school groups, young people and families from across the emirate.

 Meanwhile, the Cultural Foundation’s renovated 900-seat theatre will showcase world-class contemporary, popular and home-grown performing arts, including music, dance, and theatre, in the heart of the city. The theatre will be a prime venue for performing arts in Abu Dhabi and will host a year-round artistic programme dedicated to families and youth.

The theatre is set to become a hub for artistic talent from across the region and will be a welcome platform for the UAE’s musicians, performers and actors. A full programme of upcoming performances will be released at a later date.

Located in downtown Abu Dhabi, Al Hosn is the original urban block of the city and comprises Qasr Al Hosn fort, the Cultural Foundation, the historic National Consultative Council building and the House of Artisans. Today, it is considered an urban monument that reflects the evolution of Abu Dhabi to one of the world’s most magnificent, modern cities.