Arab World Institute

Cultural center · Saint-Victor ·

Arab World Institute

Cultural center · Saint-Victor ·

Iconic building with latticed windows, Islamic exhibitions, cafe

Information

1 Rue des Fossés Saint-Bernard, 75005 Paris, France Get directions

@cntraveler

40,944 Postcards · 5,496 Cities

The 48 Best Things to Do in Paris

"The Institut du Monde Arabe opened in 1987 but its iconic building, designed by Jean Nouvel, looks as fresh and contemporary as ever. The light dances in and around the building, thanks to the distinctive pattern of 240 mashrabiyas—half of which have photosensitive apertures that open up to 18 times a day. There are multiple dining options within the museum, from self-service to fine dining (both located on the ninth floor, with spectacular views out over the city). The museum sees a mix of visitors—those who are interested in the Arab world, obviously, from the merely curious to experts, and those who are visiting for the famous building design. The museum is so light-filled and airy that you rarely feel that the spaces are crowded, and the glimpses of the Seine and the Left Bank offer a beautiful counterpoint to the work within. Everyone should take the time to walk around the museum's exterior to fully appreciate the innovative and captivating façade." - Melissa Liebling-Goldberg, Julia Eskins

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-things-to-do-in-paris

Bruce Yuanyue Bi

Arab World Institute

@cntraveler

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The 17 Best Museums in Paris

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Bruce Yuanyue Bi

Arab World Institute

@monocle

195 Postcards · 59 Cities

"The Institut du Monde Arabe’s new exhibition pays homage to the Arab golden age’s greatest divas. Showcasing Lebanese chanteuse Sabah’s extravagant gowns, never-before-seen photos of Egyptian-born French-Italian Dalida and more, it invites visitors to consider the role these trailblazing women played in forging Arab identity over the years."

https://monocle.com/travel/paris/the-editors-selection/

Paris

MONOCLE

Arab World Institute

1000thousand S.

Google

Beautiful building inside, and definitely one of the better (free) views across the Notre Dame, best towards sunset, maybe pair with the restaurant. Temporary exhibitions sometimes fascinating, can be hit and miss depending on your interests. Definitely worth a peek, particularly if you are wandering the Left Bank.

Nawfal S.

Google

I recently visited the Arab World Institute with great interest in its cultural and historical offerings. While the exhibitions were insightful, I found that the Maghreb’s heritage was less visible compared to other regions. If dedicated sections exist, they were not clearly highlighted, which risks leaving visitors with an incomplete view of the Arab world. Despite renovations, parts of the building still feel worn, and recent leadership challenges may also explain why certain areas seem underdeveloped. Overall, the institute has much to offer, but giving greater prominence to North African contributions would provide a richer and more balanced visitor experience.

ilja G.

Google

We went to the Gaza exhibition on a whim. The first room has interesting archeological finds from Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Christian and Muslim culture. The second room has pictures of various churches and museums before and now, blown to bits by the idf.

Mike A.

Google

I absolutely loved the temporary exposition they are doing for the treasures saved from gaza. You can see really the impact of destruction and the things as humanity we have lost just because of greed and evil. I recommend this place for everyone.

Ru B.

Google

As much as I’d love to give it more stars, I think the organisation of the displays were confusing especially with the first exhibit of the photos of Lebanon. The photos were not in the same order as the online guide. Another thing, having to use translate app- for most of the description being in French. Yes I get that it’s in France, but being a spot for tourists, there should have been further guidance in English. I had to skip a lot of the information due to this. However the Cleopatra exhibition was awesome, I didn’t realise how powerful she was at her time. But a lot of the artwork portraying Cleopatra was not appropriate- but guess that’s western art for you.

Google

Great to see an exhibition on the treasures and history of archeology and architecture if Gaza, now destroyed so this exhibition is some of what has survived- do see if in Paris!

Raoul Jean-Ray P.

Google

The building alone is worth the visit. The temporary exhibitions (Palestine, Jean Genet) were brilliant, with lots of information to read. It seems both exhibitions were mixed with the permanent ones. With signage not always clear (should we take the stairs or lift...), it was sometimes confusing. Not a problem since everything was great, but a bit annoying at times. The bookstore has lots of choices to deepen the subjects...

Jonathan P.

Google

2 really good exhibitions right now 1. Cleopatra 2. Treasures of Gaza. Both very interesting. Recommended. Also there is a left luggage where you can leave your bags while visiting and then go for a walk along the Seine and collect them after…..

Phil S.

Yelp

The Arab World Institute by architect Pierre Soria was built in Rue des Fossés Saint Bernard s/n, Paris, France in 1981-1987. Absolutely stunning building. The exterior facade is made up of a series of square panels that are optical louvers. Each panel has one large optical louver surrounded by 16 medium louvers & 56 small louvers (give or take). These louvers are light sensitive and operate similar to the iris of an eye or a camera lens. Depending on the exterior light level they can close up if it's sunny outside or open if it's cloudy & overcast. The ensuing light patterns inside this building is stunning as every panel operates in synchronization to the exterior light. Very cool play of light on the inside of the building and definitely worth checking out when your in Paris

Sam M.

Yelp

I was so shocked as to how few people were inside. There was no line outside. We thought it was closed. There was less than 40 people inside. We came end of August 2018. It only cost us about 8€ each. There was no special exhibits. Only levels 4 to 7 were open. And not even the whole level was used. It seemed very small. The view from level 9 is worth visiting. That is where the restaurant, Le Zyriab by Noura, is located. The elevators worked quickly. It is all glass.

Jana C.

Yelp

Architect's Jean Nouvel's building, this is one great tip: ascend its terrace to get a free and sweeping, gorgeous view of the Ville Lumière. Beyond awesome. Rive Gauche! Think it was renovated in mid 80's

Ken G.

Yelp

This was a fun museum to visit with some great artifacts to look at. The art, ceramics, jewelry and weapons were pretty amazing to see and it's great that a museum like this can showcase such great pieces, especially since it's hard to find such a collection of items in other museums. The building itself is very modern and cool. Even though there are multiple levels to the building, the main museum is really only on one floor/level. While this isn't a huge museum (you can complete the entire main portion in about 30-40 minutes), it's definitely a great one to visit. One can go to the top deck of the building and enjoy a great view of the River Seine as well as a great panoramic view of the beautiful city of Paris.

Caroline L.

Yelp

This review is for the building alone. We didnt walk around and see anything besides the outside and then the rooftop terrace. We were told it had a great view, which it does, although we were here on a cloudy day. I'm sure on a sunny day it's more impressive although you're not THAT high up. Nice panoramic view though. There's also a restaurant up there w. the same view it seems. The building itself is very nice. Each window has a mechanical design that opens or closes which then changes the look. Very cool. Outside in front is a big structure which upon looking down from above you then see it's in the shape of a snake. I loved the very cute sculpture of a family of elephants in front, great photo op there. Elevators are numerous but move very slowly...So getting to the top floor and back down can be a chore.

Vlad G.

Yelp

Jean Nouvel's masterpiece and my favorite modern building in Paris. The diaphragm shading system was and still is (after 20 years) revolutionary and an extraordinary example of marrying traditional elements (musharrabi) with high-tech. the top floor cafe (if not closed by some party function) is a very good place to have a dink (hmm, do they have alcohol?) or a snack and has a great view from the outdoor terrace.

Dominique F.

Yelp

The building is pretty awesome. My french friend brought me and my other Egyptian friend here because she knew we would appreciate its beauty. The building has a really cool design, a huge bookstore offering Arabic books etc, and two cafes offering middle eastern food. Plus you can go up to the top view and enjoy a free view over Paris. If you're looking to save a bit of money, then you better enjoy your tea at the cafe downstairs because it's a bit less expensive ;) Enjoy!

Manda J.

Yelp

Fantastic building worth the visit alone. Rooftop terrace and cafe offers spectacular view of the Seine, and the museum galleries were beautiful, if sparse. Well worth the visit though!

Falk E.

Yelp

A great building that is worth visiting for itself. An architectural masterpiece by Jean Nouvel. Inside, you will find exhibitions, events, books, places to eat and a panorama viewing balcony. Edit: I didn't find the café to review it separately, but I'd give it a 3/5 for great food but poor service.

Chris O.

Yelp

Interesting art and exhibitions inside the Institut du Monde Arabe and great views of the Seine and Notre Dame from its roof Institut du Monde Arabe is well worth a visit. Going to Paris soon-ish? The highly recommeded Shafic Abboud retrospective runs until mid June. One of Lebanon's most celebrated artists of the 20th century, Abboud's use of colour astounds. I wasn't familiar with this abstract expressionist before checking out the show but I am now on my way to becoming a serious fan. http://www.abboud-retrospectives.org/home.html

S. P.

Yelp

Great exhibition of Arab, Jewish and Christian art from Sumerian and Sabbatean origins down to the present day. The synthesis of 'The People of the Book' is very rewarding in a period of growing religious intolerance. Most obviously this tolerance is revealed in the art of Andalusia from the 13-14th Centuries when Jewish, Christian and Islamic art existed side-by-side, and influenced each other in a wonderful flourishing of artistic creation. An uplifting place to be, with friendly staff, and one of the finest views of Paris from the 9th floor terrace and restaurant.

Friend of D.

Yelp

We came here on the recommendation of others. It is a very well laid-out museum, and a nice refreshing change from all other typical museums. There is also a nice viewing terrace and a few restaurants. The museum does a nice job explaining the present and historical the Arab world and the influences it has ha. Tastefully done and a nice mix of things (history, music, art, clothing, etc.).

Carolyn L.

Yelp

This is a great (and free!) place to study for students in Paris. There is a nice quiet library in the basement of the building. There are also interesting and free speaking events on the top floor from time to time. The view over Paris is breathtaking and the restaurant up there looks delicious and pretty affordable! Definitely worth checking out! Oh the building itself is beautiful too!

Cecilia V.

Yelp

The museum has had its collection and exhibit space completely reorganized! Although items are mixed between eras and cultures the museum has created visual and audio aids to guide the visitor through the experience not just sight on the museum and its collection. The two temporary exhibits were fascinating! Although one has already closed, the Jameel Prize one really showed some thought provoking and beautiful contemporary art. The DÉGAGEMENTS... LA TUNISIE UN AN APRÈS was also very creative and wide ranging in artists and backgrounds. If the main collection were a bit more organized I would give it 5 stars but as it is if you're going to visit Paris and like museums this one is worth your time!

Shannon D.

Yelp

has a lot of artifacts but no context i didn't really feel i learned about arab culture

@cntraveler

40,944 Postcards · 5,496 Cities

The 48 Best Things to Do in Paris

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-things-to-do-in-paris

Bruce Yuanyue Bi

Arab World Institute

@cntraveler

40,944 Postcards · 5,496 Cities

The 17 Best Museums in Paris

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-museums-galleries-in-paris

Bruce Yuanyue Bi

Arab World Institute

@monocle

195 Postcards · 59 Cities

https://monocle.com/travel/paris/the-editors-selection/

Paris

MONOCLE

Arab World Institute

1000thousand S.

Google

Nawfal S.

Google

ilja G.

Google

Mike A.

Google

Ru B.

Google

Great to see an exhibition on the treasures and history of archeology and architecture if Gaza, now destroyed so this exhibition is some of what has survived- do see if in Paris!

Raoul Jean-Ray P.

Google

Jonathan P.

Google

Phil S.

Yelp

Sam M.

Yelp

Jana C.

Yelp

Ken G.

Yelp

Caroline L.

Yelp

Vlad G.

Yelp

Dominique F.

Yelp

Manda J.

Yelp

Fantastic building worth the visit alone. Rooftop terrace and cafe offers spectacular view of the Seine, and the museum galleries were beautiful, if sparse. Well worth the visit though!

Falk E.

Yelp

Chris O.

Yelp

S. P.

Yelp

Friend of D.

Yelp

Carolyn L.

Yelp

Cecilia V.

Yelp

Shannon D.

Yelp

has a lot of artifacts but no context i didn't really feel i learned about arab culture

Arab World Institute

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