Arab World Institute, Cultural center and museum in 5th arrondissement, France.
The Arab World Institute building features geometric patterns with motorized diaphragms on its southern facade that control natural light throughout the structure.
France partnered with eighteen Arab nations to establish this institution in 1980, with construction completed in 1987 under President François Mitterrand's administration.
The institute maintains extensive collections of Islamic art and hosts exhibitions, performances, workshops, and educational programs focused on Arab civilization and contemporary expressions.
The institute welcomes visitors from Tuesday through Friday between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM, while weekend hours extend until 7:00 PM, with access via metro lines 7 and 10.
The building's north facade incorporates mirrored glass panels that reflect the Seine River and surrounding Parisian landscape, creating a visual dialogue between European and Arab architectural elements.
Location: 5th arrondissement of Paris
Inception: November 30, 1987
Architects: Jean Nouvel, Architecture-Studio
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Fee: Yes
Opening Hours: Monday off; Tuesday-Friday 10:00-18:00; Saturday-Sunday,Holidays 10:00-19:00
Phone: +33140513838
Website: http://imarabe.org
GPS coordinates: 48.84890,2.35704
Latest update: November 22, 2025 17:42
Modern architecture in Paris includes the Grande Arche in La Défense, the Fondation Louis Vuitton by Frank Gehry, and the Bibliothèque François Mitterrand with its four towers. These structures exist alongside repurposed historical buildings like La Samaritaine, Bercy Village, and Halle Pajol.
Jean Nouvel is among the most recognized French architects of our time. His work spans five continents, including museums, office towers, concert halls, and residential complexes. Each project demonstrates his ability to combine technical innovation with respect for the local context, whether through material choices, light manipulation, or integration into the existing urban fabric. Among his major works, the Louvre Abu Dhabi features a perforated dome that creates a shower of light, while the Glòries Tower in Barcelona rises with its cylindrical shape and colorful facades. In Paris, the Arab World Institute has a façade equipped with mechanical diaphragms inspired by Islamic art, and the Philharmonie updates concert hall architecture with its silver volumes. Beyond Europe and the Middle East, his projects extend to Sydney with One Central Park and its hanging gardens, or Fort Worth with a museum surrounded by water basins. These buildings provide the opportunity to explore architecture that interacts with its environment and challenges conventions. Each visit allows appreciation of how architectural creativity can transform our relationship with urban and cultural spaces.
The Quartier Latin combines Roman ruins, medieval churches, and historic universities. The Arènes de Lutèce displays Roman origins, while the Sorbonne and Collège de France represent academic tradition. Between old libraries and botanical gardens, narrow streets lead to hidden squares and traditional cafés.
Banks of the Seine
182 m
Quai de Béthune
193 m
Hôtel de Comans d'Astry
196 m
Hôtel Lefebure de la Malmaison
199 m
Stèle
207 m
Interpénétration des deux espaces
196 m
Animal 82
182 m
Abellio
191 m
Cœur de gaucho
155 m
The Labyrinth
167 m
Belt II
189 m
Fiesole
166 m
Shining Wings
172 m
Bibliothèque de l'Institut du monde arabe
9 m
Petit Musée de la table
175 m
Fountain
180 m
Scenic viewpoint
28 m
Paralum (Mosaïque) de Vasarely
111 m
Mosaïque et bassin d'André Baudoin
141 m
Cœur de Gaucho
129 m
PA_1241
118 m
PA_1365
198 m
Work of art, sculpture
207 m
Work of art, sculpture
190 m
Work of art, sculpture
198 m
Sculpture, Work of art
195 m
Memorial, commemorative plaque, information board
195 m
Memorial, commemorative plaque, information board
199 mReviews
Real people, real opinions — but not verified.
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Wonderful museum that highlights the Arab world through very beautiful temporary exhibitions. The building itself is worth a visit, just steps away from the Seine.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes