Dubai has unveiled plans for the Dubai Museum of Art (DUMA), a striking new cultural landmark that will float on the waters of Dubai Creek. The project, developed by Al Futtaim Group, was announced on October 25 in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, solidifying the emirate’s status as a global creative capital.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reviewed the designs for the Dubai Museum of Art (DUMA), a visionary project set to enhance the city’s cultural landscape. The museum will be developed by the Al Futtaim Group and is designed by world-renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando.
“Culture and art are the soul of a city and a lens through which its progress is seen,” Sheikh Mohammed stated. “The Dubai Museum of Art will be a new beacon for the city, enhancing its arts scene and further strengthening its global cultural status.”
His Highness highlighted the project as a prime example of successful public-private partnerships. “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,” he added, thanking Al Futtaim Group for their contribution.
The museum’s unique design is inspired by the sea and the pearl, reflecting Dubai’s heritage. Rising five stories above the water, its curved shell will enclose a circular exhibition hall with a central opening allowing natural light to fill the space. The structure will feature adaptable exhibition galleries, a restaurant, a VIP lounge, a library, and study rooms.
Beyond its architectural significance, DUMA is envisioned as a global platform for both emerging and established artists. It will host a diverse calendar of artist talks, panel discussions, educational programmes, and art fairs, aiming to foster dialogue and creative innovation. This aligns with Dubai’s ambition to become a leading destination for creativity, similar to its goal to host the world’s largest tech event.
Omar Al Futtaim, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Al Futtaim Group, commented, “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 the choice of architect, stating, “In Dubai, his [Tadao Ando’s] vision for the Museum of Art will stand as a serene dialogue between nature, water, and the human spirit.”
Tadao Ando, a 1995 Pritzker Architecture Prize laureate, is celebrated for his minimalist concrete structures that harmonise with nature. His previous works include Japan’s Chichu Art Museum and the Bourse de Commerce in Paris. The new museum on Dubai Creek is set to become another iconic addition to his portfolio and a defining feature of Dubai’s skyline.
