Dubai Museum of Art Unveiled as Landmark Cultural Project in Presence of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid

Dubai, The Gulf Observer: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, presided over the unveiling of the Dubai Museum of Art (DUMA), a visionary cultural project to be developed by the Al-Futtaim Group that promises to become a new global architectural and artistic landmark.

During the launch event, His Highness reviewed the museum’s distinctive and avant-garde design created by internationally acclaimed Japanese architect Tadao Ando. The project aligns with Dubai’s ambition to further enrich its creative landscape and solidify its position as a global hub for culture and innovation.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid stated: “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.”

He added: “Dubai has become a destination of choice for creatives from around the world, home to communities and industries working together to accelerate the growth of the creative economy. This new cultural landmark advances our strategic goal to position Dubai as a global hub for creativity and culture, and cements its place on the modern art map.”

Highlighting the importance of collaboration between sectors, His Highness further said: “The Dubai Museum of Art showcases the power of public-private partnerships to spark bold ideas, deliver projects that exceed expectations, and create world-class landmarks worthy of Dubai. We thank Al-Futtaim for their efforts to bring this monument to life and for their contribution to Dubai’s cultural ecosystem.”

The launch ceremony was attended by H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee; H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority; Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs; Dr. Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President; Abdulrahman Al Owais, Minister of State for Federal National Council Affairs; Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr, Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation; and Omar Al Futtaim, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Al-Futtaim Group.

Rising over the waters of Dubai Creek, the Dubai Museum of Art will feature a captivating five-storey architectural design that harmonizes deep-rooted local heritage with contemporary aesthetics. Its structure is built around principles of symbolism, human-centred dimensions, dynamic purpose, and emotional resonance, offering visitors a multisensory experience.

The museum will include flexible exhibition galleries on the first and second floors, a restaurant and VIP lounge on the third floor, as well as ground and basement levels. In addition to exhibitions, DUMA will host artist talks, panel discussions, educational programmes, art fairs, and cultural events designed to foster dialogue, creativity, and innovation.

Omar Al Futtaim expressed pride in bringing the project to life: “It is an honour to be part of this exceptional cultural creation, which embodies the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to position Dubai as a global hub for culture and creativity. For us, the Dubai Museum of Arts (DUMA) is more than an architectural landmark; it is a cultural statement that reflects Dubai’s openness to creativity and affirms its role in connecting cultures and celebrating talent from around the world.”

He praised Tadao Ando’s visionary architecture, describing it as “a serene dialogue between nature, water, and the human spirit,” capturing timeless elegance and emotional depth. He reaffirmed Al-Futtaim’s commitment to sustainability and delivering the Museum to the highest international standards.

Set against the backdrop of Dubai Creek, the museum is envisioned as a new symbol of cultural identity—open to the sky and sea, in harmony with nature, and reflective of Dubai’s global vision.