Dubai to build floating art museum on Dubai Creek

Sign up to our newsletters

Stay informed with the
latest news and analysis

REGISTER

عربي

You are viewing 1 of your 2 free articles

Render of DUMA floating on Dubai Creek

Dubai’s cultural landscape is set to expand further with a new art museum that will appear to float on water.

The Dubai Museum of Art (DUMA), a five-storey landmark taking shape on Dubai Creek, has been initiated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai.

Developed by Al Futtaim Group, DUMA will serve as a hub for contemporary art, showcasing works from Dubai’s artists and wider creative community.

The museum is being designed by celebrated Japanese architect Tadao Ando, known for his minimalist masterpieces including Osaka’s Church of Light and the Museum of Modern Art in Fort Worth.

Render of DUMA exterior

Ando’s vision for DUMA combines modern architectural precision with cultural depth, creating a structure that appears to float gracefully above the creek while blending local heritage with contemporary design to deliver an immersive sensory experience.

The five-storey building will feature flexible exhibition spaces across its first and second floors, a waterfront restaurant below, and a VIP lounge on the third level, alongside additional ground and basement facilities.

GCC inbound visitors want art and culture before beaches and shopping

Abu Dhabi’s Zayed National Museum to open in December 2025

Beyond its exhibitions, the museum will host a year-round programme of cultural events ranging from artist talks and educational workshops to art fairs and panel discussions.

Commenting on the project, Omar Al Futtaim, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Al Futtaim Group, said the Dubai Museum of Art represents “a cultural statement that reflects Dubai’s openness to creativity and affirms its role in connecting cultures and celebrating talent from around the world.”

Render of DUMA interior

Sheikh Mohammed described it as “a new beacon for the city, enhancing its arts scene and further strengthening its global cultural status”.

While no date has yet been sent for the museum’s opening, it joins a growing list of museums opening in the UAE over the next few years.

In the last quarter of 2025, Abu Dhabi will open two museums in the Saadiyat Cultural District, including the Natural History Museum, set to open on 22 November, and the Zayed National Museum, slated to debut on 3 December.

Al Ain Museum has also just reopened following an extensive renovation.

For more information, visit alfuttaim.com