Location Abu Dhabi, UAE
Client Abu Dhabi Department Of Culture And Tourism
Services Estimating & Cost Management, Project Management
Project Value $679 Million
The Zayed National Museum is the UAE’s national museum. It offers visitors a journey through the nation’s culture and history, placing special emphasis on the life and work of the UAE’s founding father and first president Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The museum houses a collection of more than 3,000 artefacts, 1,500 of which are on display in six immersive galleries. The museum also features performance spaces, temporary exhibition space, and Al Masar Garden, an outdoor gallery featuring native plantings, sculptures, and a falaj irrigation system. A large auditorium lined with Emirati textiles provides space for presentations, films, and other gatherings.
The museum’s architecture combines contemporary design with elements of traditional Emirati culture. Towers shaped like wings capture fresh air at low levels, pass it through buried cooling pipes, and draw it through the galleries using the thermal stack effect. The design creates a sustainable and naturally ventilated environment for visitors.
On behalf of the Abu Dhabi Department Of Culture And Tourism, Hill International provided project management and cost consultancy services for the delivery of the museum. Our team coordinated between the many disciplines involved in designing and building the museum, helping ensure alignment with our client’s vision and international best practices for museum projects. Hill was also responsible for developing and monitoring schedules and budgets, implementing quality control, and managing construction activities, including the installation of exhibitions and other furniture, fixtures, and equipment.
Photo credit: Zayed National Museum
