Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities participates in opening of Zayed National Museum, showcasing 19 artefacts from Dilmun and Tylos periods

Manama, Dec. 13 (BNA): The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA) participated in the official opening of the Zayed National Museum in Abu Dhabi, as part of the ongoing cultural collaboration between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates. The Authority was represented by Dr. Salman Ahmed Almahari, Director General of Archaeology, and Haya Ahmed Al Sada, Director of Museums.

The Bahrain National Museum loaned 19 distinguished archaeological artefacts from the Dilmun and Tylos civilisations, carefully selected to represent Bahrain’s rich heritage within the museum’s exhibition galleries. The collection includes pottery, copper and steatite vessels, Dilmun seals, locally minted Greek silver tetradrachm coins, and glass vessels dating to the Tylos period. It represents the largest Bahraini loan to a museum institution outside the Kingdom during this period, reflecting the significance of the Bahrain National Museum and the richness of its collections.

Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, President of BACA, highlighted the importance of the collaboration between both institutions. He noted that the number of artefacts loaned is the largest of its kind during this period, underscoring the depth of cultural ties between Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, and the shared commitment to presenting the region’s history and civilisations at regional and international levels. He added that Bahrain’s participation reflects its dedication to strengthening Gulf cultural presence and reinforcing the role of museums in preserving heritage, documenting regional history and making it accessible to global audiences.

A Memorandum of Understanding between the Zayed National Museum and the Bahrain National Museum was signed earlier this year to enhance cultural and museological cooperation, exchange expertise, and develop specialised programmes in conservation, preventive preservation, visitor services, museum education and exhibition development. It also provides for collaborative exhibitions, the exchange of collections, and the organisation of seminars, lectures and cultural events, in addition to supporting historical and scientific research on the region’s heritage.