Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi turns to Lego for new interactive exhibition

The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi has introduced a new interactive exhibition called "Natural Brickstory," utilizing Lego bricks to delve into topics ranging from the birth of the universe to life on Earth. The exhibition, running until November 8, merges the museum's scientific collections with hands-on building activities. Divided into themed zones, the experience is inspired by Earth's history, wildlife, and the cosmos.

Visitors can engage in collaborative Lego builds while learning about the scientific concepts and specimens presented throughout the museum. Large-scale Lego models depict dinosaurs, contemporary wildlife, astronauts, and models inspired by minerals and the natural world. A faithful Lego recreation of the museum itself is also on display.

Designed for children, the exhibition offers a hands-on experience where they can gather around larger builds before moving to play areas to craft their own creations, such as flowers and small buildings. The exhibition spans 13.8 billion years of natural history, but instead of viewing models, visitors actively participate in building and creativity.

Interactive elements include excavation-style areas for digging and examining objects, trails, and workshops. Additional activities are anticipated to be announced soon. Museum director Peter Kjaergaard emphasizes that play is fundamental to learning and discovery, igniting curiosity, fueling imagination, and nurturing creativity, essential qualities in scientific exploration.

Among the featured specimens are Stan, one of the most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons ever discovered, and a fragment of the Murchison meteorite, containing material formed billions of years ago. Other displays explore Abu Dhabi's prehistoric past, current biodiversity, and the future of the planet. "Natural Brickstory" complements these galleries rather than functioning as an independent attraction.

Museums acting partnership and commercial department director Alia AlHammadi believes the collaboration with Lego can inspire people to perceive familiar places through a new lens, inviting visitors to experience the museum in an entirely novel way. The exhibition aligns with the museum's broader initiative of merging collections with interactive experiences and community science programs.

The 35,000-square-meter facility, designed by Dutch architecture firm Mecanoo, also houses research facilities focusing on palaeontology, earth sciences, biodiversity, and conservation.

Admission includes access to "Natural Brickstory," with tickets priced from Dh70 for adults, free for visitors under 18, and a 30% discount for UAE residents until September 30.