Dubai unveils new architectural, cultural landmark DUMA

Dubai has announced the unveiling of a new architectural and cultural landmark - DUMA (Dubai Museum of Art) - which will be developed by leading UAE business conglomerate Al Futtaim Group on the Dubai Creek. 

A five-storeyed museum, DUMA, is being designed by renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando with a aptivating, one-of-a-kind architectural design.  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.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, along with other senior officials. 

Sheikh Mohammed, after reviewing the museum’s distinctive designs, 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."

"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," he stated.

He 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."

DUMA embodies Dubai’s vision to cement its status as a global capital of the creative economy and reflects the emirate’s growing cultural and artistic momentum.

The museum’s design blends the essence of deep-rooted local culture with modern architecture. It emphasises the key qualities of symbolic meaning, human-centred dimensions, dynamic purpose, and strong appeal to artists and art enthusiasts, offering a sensory experience that transcends the confines of physical space.

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.

Al Futtaim Group Vice Chairman and CEO Omar Al Futtaim described DUMA as 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 stated.

"We are especially proud to have entrusted the design of DUMA to the world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, whose architecture speaks the language of light, silence, and soul. In Dubai, his vision for the Museum of Art will stand as a serene dialogue between nature, water, and the human spirit, a masterpiece of restraint and emotion that embodies both ingenuity and timeless elegance, perfectly capturing the depth of his philosophy," noted Omar Al Futtaim.

Set to become a new cultural symbol set on the Dubai Creek, 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.

"The Al-Futtaim Group remains dedicated to delivering this landmark with excellence, reflecting our enduring commitment to sustainability and the cultural sector’s vital role in shaping inclusive progress," he stated.

DUMA is envisioned as a global platform for both emerging and established artists, and a source of inspiration for visitors from around the world. It will offer compelling artistic and human experiences that strengthen cultural ties and open new paths for personal growth and knowledge exchange.

The museum’s collection will showcase a diverse selection of modern and contemporary art, curated to reflect Dubai’s spirit. Through its exhibitions, collection, and programmes, the museum brings together established and emerging voices, linking modern and contemporary art with global dialogue, using art as a catalyst for empathy, curiosity, and social transformation.