Louvre Abu Dhabi names Souraya Noujaim new director ahead of 10th anniversary

Souraya Noujaim has been named the new director of Louvre Abu Dhabi, the museum's 10th anniversary is just around the corner. Noujaim, an art historian and curator specializing in Islamic art history and archaeology, will be taking over from Manuel Rabate, who has led the museum since its opening in 2017.

Noujaim previously spent five years at the museum overseeing its curatorial and collections work. She was involved in developing the museum's intellectual and curatorial vision and served as its first scientific, curatorial and collections management director from 2018 to 2023. During her tenure, she oversaw the development of the museum's collection, helped establish initiatives like Art Here, and played a key role in expanding the museum's collection.

As the museum's new director, Noujaim will oversee the collection, exhibitions, research, conservation, education, public programmes, and visitor experience. She also plans to strengthen the museum's role as a leading cultural institution in the region and on the global stage.

Noujaim's appointment is part of a partnership framework between Abu Dhabi and France. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, praised Noujaim for her contributions to the museum's development and expressed confidence in her leadership as the museum prepares to celebrate its tenth anniversary.