Museum of the Future … The Beginning …
The story of the Museum of the Future began in February 2014.
When the World Government Summit organized the “Future Government Services Museum” as an accompanying exhibition.
During the third session of the World Government Summit in February 2015, the name “Museum of the Future” was officially launched for this project.
However, the idea for the museum crystallized during a visit by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Who was inspired by his proactive and futuristic vision after learning about various future-oriented ideas and important discussions.
While the announcement of the Museum of the Future project was on March 3, 2015.
Establishment and Vision
On August 8, 2015, H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum issued Law No. 19 of 2015 for the establishment of the Museum of the Future.
This reflected His Highness’s belief that the UAE and Dubai should be at the forefront of those prepared for the future.
It also came during the same year that the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, “may God rest his soul,” declared as the Year of Innovation.
In addition, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum directed the establishment of Dubai Future Foundation.
Which was the first of its kind in the world at that time.
He also formed a Board of Trustees for the Foundation chaired by H.H Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to manage the institutionalization of future foresight.
And to be responsible for the journey of designing and creating a better future for Dubai and the world.
Construction and Challenges
Construction of the Museum of the Future began in 2017.
3D printing was used to print large and major parts of the museum.
By 2018, the structural framework was completed and the final piece was placed during an event held on November 20.
Despite the challenges of 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Dubai’s unwavering spirit of progress continued to drive it forward.
In October 2020, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum placed the final piece of the museum’s external facade, completing the exterior design with 1024 pieces manufactured with great precision.
On February 22, 2022, the Museum of the Future opened its doors to the world in a stunning ceremony.
Achievements and Significance
After one year of operation, His Excellency Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Chairman of the Museum of the Future, announced the following:
“The museum had welcomed over one million visitors from 163 countries around the world since its official opening on February 22, 2022.”
In fact, this is a special moment in the journey of Dubai and the UAE to design and create the future.
The Museum of the Future is a symbol of human creativity and the ambitious spirit of Dubai.
Due to its sustainable design and advanced technologies.
Mentioning that the museum’s journey is a testament to the power of ideas, determination, and commitment to shaping a future that surpasses imagination.
The Museum of the Future: An Architectural Marvel
Design and Construction
The Museum of the Future is a unique architectural marvel with an innovative and unconventional design.
Moreover, the museum’s structure is made of digitally fabricated stainless steel using advanced parametric design tools.
Which leverage computer algorithms to enable architects to design buildings in a different and unconventional way.
The museum is made of a stainless steel structure consisting of 1,024 pieces.
These pieces were manufactured through a specialized process with the help of robots.
Adding that they cover a total area of 17,600 square meters.
“The Museum of the Future,” a unique journey in the history of creativity and progress, initiated in 2014, flourishing with sustainable technology
it has welcomed over a million visitors from 163 countries. A symbol of innovation and a spirit of challenge🌟 pic.twitter.com/0NeGt0XSJH— UAE Voice (@uae_voiceeng) February 8, 2024
Sustainability
The museum building utilizes the latest environmental and sustainable practices.
This is clear in the efficient and integrated application of water distribution, thermal insulation, and cooling systems.
Moreover, it is reflecting the museum’s commitment to raising the standards of green buildings in the region.
In line with global efforts to promote sustainable practices in architectural design and construction.
In 2023, the museum received the LEED Platinum certification.
Which is a global rating for healthy, sustainable, high-performance, and low-cost buildings.
Noting that the museum is the only one in the Middle East to have received this prestigious certification.
Energy Efficiency and Innovation
More than 30 percent of the museum’s energy needs are generated by solar power.
Energy-efficient LED lights are also used throughout the museum.
While the entire exterior surface of the exceptional building is made of specially developed glass using innovative techniques to improve thermal insulation.
The museum has won awards such as: Tekla World Architecture Award.
In addition to a recognition from Autodesk as one of the most innovative buildings in the world.
The Green Hill
The museum building sits on a picturesque green hill that houses a wide variety of trees and plants.
Furthermore, this location offers visitors a glimpse of the biodiversity and environmental heritage of the UAE.
The gardens that adorn the vast green hill at the museum location feature indigenous trees like ghaf, sidr, palm, and qarat.
While the innovative arrangement of natural plants addresses the challenges of high summer temperatures.
This is by relying on an intelligent, targeted, and highly efficient irrigation system.
This sustainable approach plays a vital role in preserving the diverse plants.
It also supports the flocks of birds and bees that inhabit the hill to build a balanced and harmonious environment around the museum.
The Void
The void at the center of the museum symbolizes the promising future and undiscovered knowledge horizons.
It also emphasizes the role played by innovation and creativity pioneers in discovering the unknown.
The observation deck allows visitors to enjoy views across the void.
As it is showcasing half the curved structure and captivating vistas of the emirate.
In addition, the symbolic design of the void reflects the endless possibilities and uncharted horizons yet to be discovered.
It celebrates individuals who strive to enter new worlds and broaden the horizons of knowledge.
By playing a pivotal role in fostering innovation, a spirit of adventure, and discovery.
UAE.. 6 events that anticipate the future of health and treatment systems in the world pic.twitter.com/hyjydobWTt
— UAE Voice (@uae_voiceeng) February 7, 2024
The Visionary Quotes
The phrases designed by Emirati artist Mattar bin Lahej reflect the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and his outlook on the future.
His quotes:
“We will not live for hundreds of years …
But we can create something that will last for hundreds of years”“The future will belong to those who can imagine it, design it, and implement it…
The future does not wait… the future can be designed and built today”“The secret of the renewal of life, the development of civilization, and the progress of humanity are in one word: innovation”
All of the quotes of His Highness summarize the message and mission of this place as it enters its second year on February 22nd.
A Hub for Future Thinkers and Innovators
The Museum of the Future also serves as a hub for future-focused experts in various sectors across the region and the world.
It is a comprehensive laboratory for future technologies, ideas, and cities.
It also represents a meeting point for ambitious individuals with visions for the future from around the globe.
As well as a center for studying the future, its ideas, and exploring its trends in the scientific, economic, environmental, and social sectors.
Additionally, it functions as a platform for knowledge, science, and innovation.
Bringing together the best talents, minds, experts, and innovators from across the globe in international events.
Which enrich dialogue, discussions, and idea generation in various future-oriented sectors within Dubai and the UAE.
The Museum of the Future is a truly remarkable and inspiring place that embodies the spirit of innovation and progress.