Arab World Institute
Arab World Institute, Cultural center and museum in 5th arrondissement, France.
Description
The Arab World Institute is a cultural center and museum in the fifth arrondissement of Paris, presenting Arab art and contemporary expressions. The southern facade displays geometric patterns with motorized diaphragms that regulate daylight throughout the building and recall traditional mashrabiya screens.
History
France and eighteen Arab nations founded this institution in 1980 to promote cultural dialogue between Europe and the Arab world. Architect Jean Nouvel completed construction in 1987 during the presidency of François Mitterrand.
Culture
The name reflects the partnership between France and Arab countries, visible in the exhibition spaces and multilingual signage throughout the building. Visitors today watch calligraphy workshops and concerts with traditional instruments that bring together modern and classical expressions from the Arab world.
Practical
The building opens on Tuesday through Friday from ten in the morning and on weekends with longer hours until seven in the evening. Metro lines seven and ten bring visitors directly to the door on the left bank of the Seine.
Did you know?
The north facade uses mirrored glass panels that reflect the river and Parisian surroundings, creating a visual conversation between European and Arab architecture. The mechanical diaphragms open and close automatically depending on the position of the sun, producing changing light patterns inside the rooms.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (5th arrondissement of Paris).
Paris has reshaped its architectural landscape over recent decades by constructing distinctly contemporary buildings. La Défense's Grande Arche extends the city's historic axis, while Frank Gehry's Louis Vuitton Foundation unfurls its glass sails in Bois de Boulogne. The François Mitterrand Library...
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...
The Latin Quarter is one of the oldest parts of Paris and preserves traces from over two thousand years of history. Roman remains like the Arènes de Lutèce recall the ancient settlement of Lutetia, while medieval churches such as Saint-Étienne-du-Mont and Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre document the...
Banks of the Seine
182 m
Quai de Béthune
193 m
Hôtel de Comans d'Astry
196 m
Hôtel Lefebure de la Malmaison
199 mStèle
207 mInterpénétration des deux espaces
196 mAnimal 82
182 mAbellio
191 mCœur de gaucho
155 mThe Labyrinth
167 mBelt II
189 mFiesole
166 mShining Wings
172 m
Bibliothèque de l'Institut du monde arabe
9 m
Petit Musée de la table
175 mFountain
180 mScenic viewpoint
28 mParalum (Mosaïque) de Vasarely
111 mMosaïque et bassin d'André Baudoin
141 mCœur de Gaucho
129 m
PA_1241
118 mPA_1365
198 mWork of art, sculpture
207 mWork of art, sculpture
190 mWork of art, sculpture
198 mSculpture, Work of art
195 mMemorial, commemorative plaque, information board
195 mMemorial, commemorative plaque, information board
199 mReal 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