The Museum of the Future (MOTF), one of Dubai’s most iconic monuments, is located on Sheikh Zayed Road, the city’s freeway. The museum, which was founded by the Dubai Future Foundation and opened on February 22, 2022, looks at how science and technology may help society grow in the following decades.

It’s dubbed a ‘living museum’ because it combines traditional displays, immersive theatre, and themed activities to allow visitors to see beyond the present and into the endless possibilities of the future. It is also the headquarters for the city’s ‘Great Arab Minds’ initiative, which aims to find 1,000 extraordinary Arab talents in a variety of sectors.

Museum of the Future design and architecture

The Museum of the Future is an asymmetric torus encased in steel and glass that has been named one of the world’s 14 most beautiful museums by National Geographic. It’s thanks to architect Shaun Killa, who wanted the building to embody Dubai’s future vision.

The museum’s beautiful facade is especially notable for its creative use of Arabic calligraphy, which also serves as glass windows. Designed by Emirati artist Mattar bin Lahej, they feature phrases from HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, as inspirational poetry. One of the three quotes that surround the front translates to: “The future belongs to those who can imagine it, design it and execute it. It isn’t something you await, but rather create.” 

What to Expect When Visiting the Museum of the Future

The significant development will contribute to a better humanity and a stronger global economy 50 years from now by showcasing how next-generation solutions — encompassing everything from artificial intelligence to augmented reality – may improve our lives.

Visitors will get the opportunity to interact with this ground-breaking technology. Expert storytellers, technicians, and imaginative artists bring each level of the museum to life as an immense, interactive movie set. The future of space travel and life, climate change and ecology, health, wellbeing, and spirituality are all on the agenda. There will be special seminars and speeches by the world’s best brains, in addition to ground-breaking technology.

Future Heroes, a dedicated space meant to help little ones to tap into their potential, offers an open-world experience to children ages three to ten.

Tickets cost AED145 and may be purchased on the official website, with children under the age of three, people of determination, and Emirati elderly citizens receiving free admission.

The Museum of the Future is a magnificent space that provides guests with an unforgettable experience that will blow their brains. The structure is a stunning addition to Dubai’s already stunning skyline, and it has been named one of the 14 Most Beautiful Museums in the World by National Geographic magazine.

Here are some of the unique features that make it one of Dubai’s most popular attractions. 

1. MOTF Exhibits A Feng Shui Inspired Design

The museum’s feng shui-inspired design is best described as torus-shaped. Atop a lush hill, the structure rises 77 meters in the air. Its exterior is encircled in Arabic calligraphy and is quite beautiful. The three main elements – the green mound, gleaming edifice, and elliptical vacuum – tell the story of our planet while still leaving room for the unknown future.

2. The MOTF Structure Has Set Innovative Architectural Benchmarks

To tackle significant architectural constraints, the museum’s ground-breaking construction necessitated the use of cutting-edge technology such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and parametric design. Robotic technology was employed to manufacture 1,024 stainless steel panels covering 17,600 square meters for the exterior facade. As a result, the structure became a model for implementing cutting-edge design concepts and ideas.

3. The Building Has Illuminated Arabic Calligraphy Design

The Arabic calligraphy, produced by artist Mattar Bin Lahej, spells out three lovely lines from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum –

“We won’t live for hundreds of years, but we can build something that will.”

“Those who can imagine, design, and build the future will own it; the future does not wait; the future can be designed and built now.”

“Innovation is the key to life renewal, civilization development, and humanity progress.”

4. MOTF Showcases Sustainability Solutions In Its Design Elements

Every phase of the building’s planning and construction has prioritized sustainability. Among the best examples are the use of sustainable construction materials and technical solutions that are low-energy and low-water. The structure is also powered by a solar park with a capacity of 4,000 megawatts. Plus, there’s more. During the day, the beautiful calligraphy serves as windows, allowing natural light to flood the interiors. Its LEED Platinum certification reflects its dedication to employing energy-efficient strategies.

5. The Building Structure Has Zero Support Columns

The Museum of the Future’s circular shape presented a unique building challenge. To build the structure without support columns, architects and designers had to think outside the box. They devised a brilliant plan to replace the columns with a solid stainless steel backbone made up of 2,400 diagonally intersecting beams.

6. The Museum of the Future Is A Living Museum

The Museum of the Future is unlike any other attraction you’ve ever seen! Visitors have an important part in determining our collective destiny. The museum provides a vibrant setting where specialists can come together to brainstorm solutions to the world’s most pressing issues. It also allows for incremental improvements to its own exhibits and attractions.

7. MOTF Is The Headquarters of the ‘Great Arab Minds’

The ‘Great Arab Minds’ program, which has its home in the Museum Of The Future, gathers thinkers, pioneers, and innovators from the Arab world. The select group will participate in fascinating science conferences and stimulating workshops, as well as contribute to the development of cutting-edge scientific discoveries, technological innovations, and future trends.