A celebration of some of the UAE’s greatest and most iconic landmarks across the nation
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Completed in 2007 after 13 years of meticulous craftsmanship, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi stands as a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture. Envisioned by the UAE’s founding father, HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, this iconic structure celebrates Islamic values of peace, tolerance, and cultural diversity. The mosque’s design harmonises architectural elements from multiple Islamic traditions. Its 82 domes, clad in pure white marble, showcase Moroccan artistry and feature golden crescent finials.
The 106-metre-tall minarets incorporate geometric forms inspired by Mameluke, Ottoman, and Fatimid styles. Inside, the main prayer hall dazzles with the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet and a 12-tonne crystal chandelier.
Surrounded by marble-clad columns adorned with floral inlays and set against the world’s largest marble mosaic courtyard, the mosque is an ethereal blend of tradition and innovation. It’s not just a place of worship but a global symbol of unity and architectural brilliance.
The Louvre, Abu Dhabi
The Louvre Abu Dhabi, crafted by visionary architect Jean Nouvel, is a global architectural icon. Nestled on Saadiyat Island in the UAE capital, this extraordinary structure combines tradition, innovation, and sustainability. Its design draws inspiration from the interplay of light, water, and the region’s architectural heritage, celebrating its unique position where desert sands meet the Arabian Gulf. The museum’s crowning glory is its massive, floating dome – a feat of engineering brilliance.
Composed of 7,850 intricately arranged stars across eight layers, the dome creates a breathtaking “rain of light” effect, echoing sunlight filtering through palm fronds. Despite its immense 7,500-ton weight, supported by just four hidden piers, the dome exudes an ethereal quality.
Surrounded by water and reminiscent of an Arabian medina, the museum-city comprises 55 structures, including 23 galleries. With its sustainable design and microclimate innovations, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is a cultural beacon and a symbol of environmental excellence and artistic wonder.
Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, Dubai
This December Dubai’s Jumeirah Burj Al Arab is celebrating 25 years since it first opened its hotel doors.The architectural masterpiece is recognised around the world as a symbol of engineering prowess and luxury hospitality and is a testament to the city’s commitment to innovation. Designed by Tom Wright of Atkins, the sail-shaped icon rises from a man-made island, connected to the mainland by a private bridge. Its design reflects the sails of a dhow, a nod to Dubai’s maritime heritage.
The interiors are equally breathtaking, with a 180-metre atrium adorned in gold leaf, vibrant colours, and intricate mosaics, creating a feast for the eyes. The hotel’s luxurious offerings include private butler services, chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royces, and opulent suites with panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. From its underwater restaurant to its terrace with infinity pools, and its sky high dining at Al Muntaha on its 27th floor, the Burj Al Arab continues to set the global benchmark for luxury hospitality.
Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre, Sharjah
Nestled between rugged cliffs and Khor Fakkan’s shimmering bay, the Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre in Sharjah is a beacon of architectural elegance and cultural significance. Inspired by the grandeur of Roman amphitheatres, this 1,700-square-metre marvel combines historic design with modern functionality, positioning itself as a key landmark in the UAE. The amphitheatre, with its capacity to host over 3,500 spectators, is more than just a performance venue; it’s a celebration of artistry and community. Equipped with a state-of-the-art cooling system, it ensures a comfortable experience year-round, redefining outdoor entertainment.
Visitors can also indulge in delectable culinary offerings at the on-site restaurant and café, adding a layer of luxury to the cultural immersion. What truly elevates the site is the 45-metre-high cascading waterfall, an artistic fusion of nature and design. Though man-made, it integrates seamlessly with the natural rock, creating a mesmerising visual spectacle, especially when illuminated at night. Viewing windows at the top offer an intimate perspective of the waterfall’s flow, enhancing the visitor experience. Together, the amphitheatre and waterfall exemplify Sharjah’s vision of harmonising tradition, innovation, and natural beauty. Overlooking the bay, they invite visitors to explore Khor Fakkan’s vibrant culture and stunning vistas, making it a must-visit icon in the UAE.
Fujairah Fort, Fujairah
Perched on a rocky hill, the Fujairah Fort is the oldest building in the country and stands as an enduring testament to the UAE’s legacy. Constructed in the 16th century, this historic landmark is one of the oldest and largest forts in the country, with a striking presence that has defined the skyline of Fujairah for centuries. Rising approximately 20 metres above sea level, the fort offers panoramic views of the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, adding to its allure as a quintessential symbol of the region. The fort’s architecture reflects a harmonious blend of Emirati and Persian influences.
Its irregular shape, dictated by the rugged terrain, is characterised by three circular and one rectangular watchtower interconnected by walls enclosing a central hall. Constructed using local materials like mud, stone, and palm fronds, the design was both practical and resilient, providing insulation from the harsh desert climate. The intricate wooden doors at the entrance and the labyrinth of rooms and passageways within speak to the craftsmanship and ingenuity of its builders. Beyond its architectural grandeur, Fujairah Fort has played a key role in the UAE’s history. Serving as a defensive stronghold for the ruling Al Sharqi dynasty, it was both a fortress and a residence, witnessing battles, sieges, and periods of prosperity.
Burj Khalifa, Dubai
As the tallest building in the world, Dubai’s Burj Khalifa is an architectural marvel. Designed by Chicago-based Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM), with Adrian Smith as consulting design partner, its innovative form is inspired by the Hymenocallis flower, blending regional heritage with cutting-edge engineering.
The tower’s Y-shaped floor plan and triple-lobed footprint ensure stability and maximize views of the Arabian Gulf. Spiraling upwards with setbacks along its wings, it culminates in a sculpted spire, reminiscent of Islamic onion domes when viewed from above. Over 40 wind tunnel tests were conducted to address challenges posed by Dubai’s climate, ensuring resistance to wind loads and vibrations. Inside, Burj Khalifa epitomizes opulence.
The Armani Hotel Dubai occupies lower levels, while private residences, corporate suites, and sky lobbies redefine luxury living. Interiors feature stainless steel, polished dark stones, and Venetian stucco, blending elegance with cultural heritage. Additionally, over 1,000 curated artworks enhance its grandeur, symbolising global harmony. Constructed with 330,000 cubic metres of concrete and 39,000 tonnes of reinforced steel, Burj Khalifa broke multiple records, including the highest aluminium and glass façade. A masterpiece of human ingenuity, it continues to captivate as a beacon of innovation and luxury.
Museum of the Future, Dubai
The Museum of the Future in Dubai stands as an exceptional feat of architectural ingenuity, seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology with bold design. Its iconic torus shape, cloaked in a mesmerising steel façade adorned with intricate Arabic calligraphy, symbolises the convergence of art and engineering.
The structure’s pioneering use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) during construction enabled precise execution and intricate collaboration, establishing it as one of the most advanced projects ever undertaken. Beyond its aesthetic brilliance, the museum acts as a hub for innovation, delving into the future of humanity and addressing global challenges. It has earned LEED Platinum certification, setting remarkable benchmarks for sustainability.
As a visionary design masterpiece, it perfectly embodies Dubai’s aspirations for the future, reflecting its unrelenting pursuit of excellence, creativity, and technological advancement.
Al Jahili Fort, Al Ain
Al Jahili Fort stands as a powerful symbol of Abu Dhabi’s architectural and cultural legacy. Constructed between 1891 and 1898 under the directive of HH Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, the ruler of Abu Dhabi and head of the Al Falah family, the fort’s historic significance lies not only in its architectural grandeur but also in its role in shaping the region’s socio-political landscape.Designed to serve as a summer residence for HH Sheikh Zayed, the fort embodies both strategic and domestic purposes.
Its original structure features a square high-walled fort and a striking round tower with four concentric tiers, displaying an elegant yet robust design. Today, its cylindrical towers and the sheikh’s majlis, where diplomacy and hospitality flourished, evoke the dignity of its past. The fort’s history is intertwined with the lineage of Abu Dhabi’s rulers. After HH Sheikh Zayed’s passing, it became the residence of his son, HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed. Over subsequent decades, the fort fell into disrepair until British forces repurposed it as their regional headquarters in the mid-20th century.
In the 1980s, restoration began, culminating in a significant rehabilitation in 2007-2008, which transformed Al Jahili into a cultural hub. The poetic inscription above its entrance captures the fort’s enduring legacy: a house of honour and high standing. Today, Al Jahili Fort remains a testament to the vision of its founder, offering a timeless connection to Abu Dhabi’s storied past.
