The architecture in the Emirates is widely known for its modern and innovative designs, which combine latest technology with traditional elements. This article is about four outstanding architectural projects planned to launch in the country in the upcoming years.
The 3D-printed Mosque
Last year, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) presented the project of a fully functional 3D-printed mosque (the first one in the world), which will be constructed in the Bur Dubai historic neighbourhood. The project is part of the Dubai Emirate’s 3D Printing Strategy launched in 2016, according to which 25% of buildings in Dubai will be 3D-printed by 2030.
The construction of the mosque will involve using a large robotic 3D printer operated by three workers. A combination of raw materials and specially prepared concrete will be used. It will ensure the structure’s durability for about 30 years. Expected to be finished in the beginning of 2025, the mosque will cover 2,000 sqm, spanning two floors, and accommodate up to 600 people.
Sharjah Floating Theatre
Another notable project on today’s list is a floating theatre in Kalba (Sharjah). It was approved in 2021 by H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi (Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah). In 2022, the theatre got a new name: Al Mahara Theatre.
The building’s unconventional design, the seashell shape, is inspired by H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi’s idea. The theatre will be linked to the Kalba Corniche, thus providing a complete view of the Arabian Sea. An undeniable tourist hotspot, the theatre will host world-class performances and plays and accommodate more than 1,000 viewers.
Natural History Museum
The project of the Natural History Museum was unveiled in 2022. The new institution, which will be situated in the Saadiyat Cultural District (Abu Dhabi) and cover 35,000 sqm, is planned to open in 2025.
The museum’s geometric design by Dutch design practice Mecanoo makes the building surrounded by water and vegetation look like natural rock formations. The venue will feature gallery display areas, temporary exhibition spaces, and theatre spaces. There will also be a research facility for studying zoology, palaeontology, marine biology, molecular research, and earth sciences.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi
The project of the Guggenheim Museum in Abu Dhabi presented in 2006 will finally be finished in 2025. Located in the Saadiyat Cultural District, the museum is the result of a collaboration between the Department of Culture and Tourism of Abu Dhabi and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation.
The future museum is designed by renowned Canadian-American architect Frank Gehry. It will cover 42,000 sqm, which makes it the largest of the four Guggenheim institutions. The impressive design for the museum in Abu Dhabi comprises galleries of different heights, shapes, and types (about 12,000 sqm of exhibition space will be available). The design project also includes regionally relevant sustainable aspects, such as cooling and ventilation based on the concept of the Middle Eastern historic wind towers. In addition to the exhibition halls, the museum will also house a centre for art and technology, archives, a library, a conservation laboratory, and a children’s education facility.
You might also be interested in reading about the Revelation Mosque by X-Architects, Dubai Urban Tech District, and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi.
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