Plans for the Dubai Museum of Art (DUMA), developed by the Al-Futtaim Group, were unveiled on Saturday, with UAE Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in attendance.
DUMA is set to become a new architectural and cultural landmark, proposed for construction on the waters of Dubai Creek. The UAE’s Prime Minister reviewed the museum’s distinctive designs by world-renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando. The project has been developed to enrich Dubai’s creative landscape.
شهدنا اليوم إطلاق معلم أيقوني جديد في دبي .. " متحف دبي للفنون" .. متحف يطفو فوق مياه خور دبي ليزيد من تألقها .. وليعكس روح دبي الحضارية ويكون مرآة لثقافتها وفنونها .. ويضيف تنوعاً جديداً في معالمها ولوحة جمالها المعمارية .
— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) October 25, 2025
تقديرنا وشكرنا للأخ عبدالله الفطيم وابنه عمر الفطيم… pic.twitter.com/1cNjaK6W2V
Blending the essence of deep-rooted local culture with modern architecture, the museum captures Dubai’s spirit, open to the vast sea and sky, and in harmony with its natural surroundings.
The architecture is inspired by the sea and the pearl, symbols of Dubai’s heritage and spirit. The museum’s curved shell encloses a circular exhibition hall that represents unity, discovery, and continuity. A central cylindrical opening allows natural light to cascade through the structure, evoking the gentle shimmer of a pearl.
Rising five stories above the water, the Museum will feature adaptable exhibition galleries across the first and second floors, a restaurant and VIP lounge on the third floor, as well as ground and basement levels.
Beyond its exhibitions, the Museum will host artist talks, panel discussions, educational programmes, and art fairs. Purpose-built event spaces and a dedicated VIP lounge will enable a curated calendar of cultural programming that fosters learning, dialogue, and creative innovation.
Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said, “Culture and art are the soul of a city and a lens through which its progress is seen. They reflect its vision and the depth of its humanitarian mission. The Dubai Museum of Art will be a new beacon for the city, enhancing its arts scene and further strengthening its global cultural status.”
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