The new Louvre Abu Dhabi museum, which was opened last night, will become "an iconic image," the Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development, Noura Al Kaabi, has said.

In a series of tweets following the opening, Al Kaabi described the museum as "a true example of how culture can bridge the histories and stories of two different nations."

Noting that its 180 metre wide dome by prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel is set to become "an iconic image of Abu Dhabi and its cultural scene," she added that the museum "brings together cultures and civilisations bridging East and West."

Describing herself as having been "honoured to be a part of this momentous occasion," Al Kaabi said that the ten-year journey from conception to opening "reiterates Abu Dhabi’s commitment to culture and development, placing the UAE as a regional leader."