Police lined nearby streets and roads were closed as the leaders were transported from the SEC, which is hosting the summit, to the museum.
Prince Charles and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended the event. The Queen, who decided not to attend on advice from doctors, sent a video message.
Despite the excitement inside the venue, there was anger outside it – locals reported not being able to get inside their homes because of the security measures.
Here are pictures from inside the exclusive event.
. Kelvingrove event
World Leaders pose for a group photo during an evening reception to mark the opening day of the COP26 summit. Photo: WPA Pool
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Israel's Prime Minister Naftali Bennett (L), US President Joe Biden (C) and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson (R) chat at the reception. Photo: ALBERTO PEZZALI
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Attendees watch a video message from Queen Elizabeth II. Photo: ALBERTO PEZZALI
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US President Joe Biden (C) greets Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge (R). Photo: ALBERTO PEZZALI
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Prime Minister Boris Johnson makes an address to an evening reception. Photo: WPA Pool