Arab American National Museum in Detroit, MI

The first museum in the world to be dedicated to the history and culture of Arab Americans, the Arab American National Museum in Detroit aims to provide an insight into the background and lives of Arab American community and other minorities, while also dispelling the various myths and misconceptions that shroud these societies.<

The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that pertain to the economic, political and cultural contributions of the Arab American community to the history of America. The museum also focuses of the diverse experiences of immigrants and the various ethnic groups to reflect the multiplicity of their nation. The Lower level houses the Temporary Exhibits Gallery, which displays art exhibits by prominent Arab Americans, revolves around historic and contemporary themes.

The second floor showcases three exhibits titled Coming to America, Living in America and Making an Impact. Here you can find an array of rotating exhibits like the 'Threads of Pride' collection which features Palestinian traditional costumes.

The permanent exhibits, which are featured in the Community Courtyard on the ground floor, reflect the history of the Arab civilization and its contributions to the fields of science, medicine, mathematics, astronomy, religion and art. The collection comprises of a multitude of art exhibits, three-dimensional artifacts, documents, personal papers and photographs. Many of these have been donated by individuals and communities from their very own personal collections, which further enhances the individuality of the collection.

The museum also hosts events on a one-off and regular basis, some of which include the annual Arab Film Festival which showcases films that are by and about Arab Americans and the Free Craft Sundays that are organized for children between the ages of 6 and 12 years of age.

You can also opt to take a guided tour of the museum and watch a presentation on Arab and American Communities. The Museum Gift Shop offers an array of jewelry, home décor and pottery which are an interesting blend of traditional motifs with modern day designs, besides books and music to offer a greater understanding of the community.

The Library and Resource Center houses an eclectic collection of books, web-based resources and a reading area which is of particular interest to those researching this community.

Currently, the museum offers free admittance on Sundays and you can visit from 12 pm to 5 pm. Weekdays at the museum will cost you $6 per head, and museum hours are from 10 am to 6 pm on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays and with Thursdays offering an extension of hours up to 8 pm. For further information and to take a virtual tour of the museum, you can refer to the website http://www.arabamericanmuseum.org .

The Arab American National Museum
13624 Michigan Avenue
Dearborn, Michigan 48126

Phone: (313) 582-2266