The Arab World Institute is a museum and cultural centre on the Seine at 1 Rue des Fossés Saint-Bernard in Paris’s Latin Quarter. Jean Nouvel’s glass-and-steel building brings contemporary design together with details inspired by Arab architectural traditions. Inside, permanent collections trace Arab and Arab-Muslim history, while temporary exhibitions explore changing subjects, including Cleopatra and the cultural heritage of Gaza. Head to the rooftop for a view towards Notre-Dame, then browse the bookshop for more on the subjects you have seen.
A façade shaped by mashrabiya
Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, the institute opened in 1987. Its glass-and-steel exterior draws on mashrabiya, the lattice screens used in traditional Arab architecture. On the southern façade, geometric metal apertures can open and close to regulate light. Their repeated pattern gives the modern building a strong connection to the architectural references behind its design.
The institute was founded jointly by France and 18 Middle Eastern and North African countries. Its purpose is to promote cultural exchange and knowledge of the Arab world. The building brings together a museum and learning centre with a library, bookshop, restaurant and spaces for cultural events.
Collections and temporary exhibitions
The museum’s permanent collections cover a broad span of Arab and Arab-Muslim history. They include material relating to the Arab world before the Hegira and to the expansion of Islam, alongside Indian, Iranian and Turkish works. The museum occupies the building’s fourth to seventh floors.
Temporary exhibitions add changing subjects to the visit. Past shows have included Cleopatra and exhibitions on the cultural heritage of Gaza. One exhibition brought together archaeological finds associated with Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Christian and Muslim cultures, as well as images documenting damaged churches and museums. Exhibition subjects and displays change, so check what is on before you go.
Some displays combine temporary material with parts of the permanent collection. The route can be difficult to follow, and directions between stairs and lifts are not always clear. Checking the exhibition guide in advance can help you plan what you want to see. French text may also be easier to navigate with a translation app.
The rooftop and bookshop
The rooftop is a place to pause after the galleries, with views towards Notre-Dame and the Seine. The sightline also takes in the islands in the river and the Marais district. The terrace is open to the public, and the view towards Notre-Dame is a particular reason to time your visit for late in the day.
The bookshop has a broad selection of titles for readers who want to follow up on subjects from the exhibitions. The institute also has a restaurant, though specific menu details are not available here. If you are planning a meal there, check current details directly with the venue.
FAQ
What can you see at the Arab World Institute?
The museum’s permanent collections cover Arab and Arab-Muslim history, including works connected with Indian, Iranian and Turkish cultures. Temporary exhibitions cover changing subjects, such as Cleopatra and Gaza’s cultural heritage.
Is there a rooftop view at the Arab World Institute?
Yes. The public rooftop has views towards Notre-Dame, the Seine, the river islands and the Marais district.
When is a good time to visit the rooftop?
Go near sunset for the view towards Notre-Dame.
Where is the Arab World Institute in Paris?
It is at 1 Rue des Fossés-Saint-Bernard, in the Latin Quarter beside the Seine.
