Arab World Institute

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

The 17 Best Museums 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." - Lindsey Tramuta, Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

"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."

11 Must-See Exhibitions In Paris for Spring 2025

After more than a year of devastation, this cultural institution will host a landmark exhibition titled ‘Gaza’s Saved Treasures – 5,000 Years of History’, showcasing 130 artefacts rescued from Gaza from a collection of 529 archaeological treasures safeguarded in Geneva, including ancient amphorae, statuettes, funeral steles and mosaics that testify to Gaza’s pivotal role as a crossroads of civilizations for over 5,000 years. It will also stage ‘The Mystery of Cleopatra’, an exhibition that aims to debunk myths around Cleopatra, explore her portrayal in art and pop culture, and examine how her image has shifted from that of an objectified seductress to a symbol of female power. - Rémi Morvan