Some buildings are immediately familiar to travelers without ever having seen them themselves. For example, Burj Al Arab, the iconic sail-shaped hotel on the coast. Or Burj Khalifa, which has been the tallest building in the world since 2010. However, the city has numerous other buildings worth seeing. These architectural wonders in Dubai are among them:

The Opus

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Zaha Hadid made history. The Iraqi-British architect was the first woman to receive a Pritzker Architecture Prize. She also received the Order of the Britsh Empire. And even after her death in 2016, her flowing designs continue to cause a stir worldwide. The Opus is one of the legendary architect's last personal designs. It was realized posthumously. It consists of two separate towers that merge into a cube-like structure thanks to a four-storey atrium as a link. A bridge connects them at a height of 71 meters. Inside, you'll find the first ME by Melia Hotel Dubais and diverse restaurants.

The Opus
Al Amal St, Business Bay, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Tel: +971 4 511 5004
Web: omniyat.com

Museum of the Future

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It was only in 2015 that South African Shaun Killa founded his architecture firm Killa Design in Dubai. He was previously under contract with Atkins Middle East, where he worked on projects including the Burj al Arab. A few years later, his design for the Museum of the Future was the biggest coup of his career to date. Shortly after its opening in 2022, the unique building in the form of an asymmetrical ring of steel and glass was named one of the most beautiful museums in the world. It represents Dubai's vision for the future. The 78-metre-high building has no supporting pillars inside. This makes it a masterpiece of engineering. Lines of poetry by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum in Arabic calligraphy serve as windows.

Museum of the Future
67CP+H4Q, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Trade Centre 2, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Tel: +971 800 2071
Web: museumofthefuture.ae

Cayan Tower

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Known as "Infinity Tower" during the construction phase, the iconic building in Dubai Marina is now called Cayan Tower. The foundation stone was laid in 2006 and the building was finally opened seven years later. The special feature of the skyscraper is obvious at first glance. It's a 306 meter high tower whose floors are each offset by 1.2 degrees. This creates a 90-degree rotation up to the top. The tower with its unmistakable spiral shape was designed by architects Skidmore, Owings & Merrill who are no strangers to spectacular building construction. They were already responsible for the design of the Burj Khalifa. Inside Cayan Tower, you'll find apartments.

Cayan Tower
Dubai Marina, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Tel.: + 971 4 259 7692
Web: cayan.net

Dubai Frame

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In Zabeel Park, a golden frame has been enthroned in the middle of the skyline since 2018. This architectural wonder in Dubai is without doubt one of the most spectacular buildings in the city. Situated between the old city center and the newer parts of the city, it symbolizes the fusion of tradition and modernity. The picture frame is 150 meters high and 93 meters wide. The fact that it stands is the result of masterful engineering. Inside, visitors can expect a journey through time through the past, present and future of the emirate. From the top, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the city. Dubai Frame was designed by Mexican architect Fernando Donis.

Dubai Frame
Zabeel Park Jogging Track, Za'abeel, Al Kifaf , Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Tel.: +971 800 900
Web: dubaiframe.ae

Al Shindagha Museum

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The newly opened museum tells the story of the country's proud history. Part of the experience is the multimedia show "Dubai Creek: Birth of a City". Visitors can follow the creation of the metropolis of Dubai with their own eyes. Interactive videos, touch displays and photographs bring visitors closer to the exhibition. You'll find the museum in one of Dubai's oldest districts. It now consists of 20 pavilions and open-air areas; there are also special installations for children. As the Al Shindagha Museum is also committed to preserving historical customs, you can also book weaving courses here. X-Architects played a leading role in the development of the visitor center.

Al Shindagha Museum
Al Shindagha, Dubai
Tel: +800 33 222
Web: alshindagha.dubaiculture.gov.ae

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