The Dubai Museum of Art (DUMA), unveiled by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, marks a new chapter in Dubai’s creative landscape
HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum unveiled the Dubai Museum of Art (DUMA), a visionary project by the Al-Futtaim Group designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Tadao Ando
HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum unveiled the Dubai Museum of Art (DUMA), a visionary project by the Al-Futtaim Group designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Tadao Ando

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, attended the unveiling of the Dubai Museum of Art (DUMA), a visionary project to be developed by Al-Futtaim Group, set to become a major architectural and cultural landmark in the emirate.

During the event, His Highness reviewed the museum’s distinctive designs by world-renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando, a Pritzker Architecture Prize laureate known for his minimalist structures that harmonise with nature. The project has been conceived to enrich Dubai’s creative landscape and further position the city as a global hub for arts and culture.

“Culture and art are the soul of a city and a lens through which its progress is seen,” His Highness said. “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 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, His Highness emphasised the power of public-private partnerships in delivering bold, world-class projects. “We thank Al-Futtaim for their efforts to bring this monument to life and for their contribution to Dubai’s cultural ecosystem,” he said.

The launch event was attended by senior dignitaries including 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 the Al-Futtaim Group.

A Landmark on Dubai Creek

Set on the waters of Dubai Creek, DUMA will rise five storeys above the water and feature adaptable exhibition galleries across the first and second floors, a restaurant and VIP lounge on the third floor, and dedicated ground and basement levels. Beyond exhibitions, the museum will host artist talks, panel discussions, educational programmes, and art fairs, supported by purpose-built event spaces that foster dialogue, learning, and creative innovation.

Omar Al Futtaim, Vice Chairman and CEO of the Al-Futtaim Group, said: “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. DUMA is more than an architectural landmark; it is a cultural statement that reflects Dubai’s openness to creativity and its role in connecting cultures and celebrating talent from around the world.”

He added, “We are especially proud to have entrusted the design of DUMA to Tadao Ando, whose architecture speaks the language of light, silence, and soul. His vision for the Museum of Art will stand as a serene dialogue between nature, water, and the human spirit, perfectly capturing the depth of his philosophy.”

A Fusion of Culture, Architecture, and Nature

The museum’s design blends deep-rooted local culture with modern architecture. Inspired by the sea and the pearl, symbols of Dubai’s heritage, its curved shell encloses a circular exhibition hall representing unity, discovery, and continuity. A central cylindrical opening allows natural light to cascade through the structure, evoking the gentle shimmer of a pearl.

DUMA is intended as a global platform for emerging and established artists, offering visitors immersive artistic experiences that strengthen cultural ties and promote personal growth. The museum will also include a library, study rooms, and world-class training programmes designed to nurture the next generation of creative leaders.

Tadao Ando’s Architectural Vision

Tadao Ando’s signature philosophy emphasises the integration of architecture and environment, utilising light, shadow, and spatial balance to create contemplative spaces. His notable projects include Japan’s Chichu Art Museum, the Bourse de Commerce in Paris, and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth in Texas.

DUMA will embody Dubai’s ambition to cement its status as a global capital of the creative economy, offering a unique cultural destination that resonates with both residents and international visitors alike.