Abstract:

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is experiencing rapid cultural, technological, and demographic transformations that reshape the educational needs of younger generations. In alignment with the UAE Ministry of Education’s national direction toward integrating artificial intelligence across learning environments, museums in the UAE have a strategic opportunity to evolve into future-oriented learning platforms that actively support children’s development. This study explores how children’s museum education can be re-imagined by embedding interactive pedagogies, experiential learning practices, and AI-driven technologies—such as intelligent exhibits, adaptive digital learning systems, and augmented reality experiences—within museum environments designed for children aged 6–12.

The research presents a comprehensive framework that connects museum-based learning with national educational priorities, cultural identity formation, and the UAE’s long-term vision for fostering AI literacy and future skills among young learners. Drawing on local and international case studies, the study examines how museum spaces can reinforce curriculum links, promote cultural continuity, and deliver adaptive digital-physical learning experiences. It further highlights the potential of UAE museums to act as community learning hubs connecting schools, families, and informal educational stakeholders, while supporting the Ministry’s agenda for innovation-driven learning ecosystems.

The findings outline key design principles for future-ready children’s museum education in the UAE, emphasizing child agency, cultural relevance, digital-physical integration, AI-enhanced learning pathways, and collaborative community partnerships. By positioning the children’s museum as a dynamic educational ecosystem aligned with national AI-driven strategies, this research contributes to shaping the future of museums in rapidly changing UAE communities.

Keywords:

Children’s museum education, UAE museums, AI in education, experiential learning, augmented reality, cultural identity, community learning hubs, future-oriented museums.