A Monumental and Visionary Project in Memory of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan

A Monumental and Visionary Project in Memory of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan
#Architecture

Conceived as a memorial in honour of the deceased Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founding President of the United Arab Emirates, the Zayed National Museum will be the heart of the cultural district on the Island of Saadiyat, already home to Louvre Abu Dhabi. A monumental work dedicated to the history, the culture, the social and economic transformation of the Emirates, of which Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was a key player. The building, created by star architect Norman Foster and his studio Foster + Partners, is the result of a desire to combine a highly efficient contemporary form with elements of traditional Arab design, creating a sustainable museum that is welcoming and adheres to the culture of its location. Its five towers were conceived like the wings of a falcon, “plumes” of steel rising 114 metres. The lightness of the exterior of the structure contrasts with the monumental interior, composed of a series of galleries destined to retrace the history, interests and leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The galleries are suspended above a scenographic central hall dug into the ground and illuminated from above. The building, which should be completed in 2022, will be surrounded by water and gardens, another worthy tribute to the memory of Sheikh Zayed.

Alessandra Migliorini - © 2021 ARTE.it for Bulgari Resort Dubai