The UAE National Military Museum
The UAE National Military Museum was envisioned as both a cultural landmark and a civic symbol—an architecture that commemorates the past while inspiring future generations to pursue peace. The design embodies defense, determination, and a proactive presence to ensure the nation’s security and stability.
The architectural form suggests a portal or gateway, an emblem of both protection and welcome. It serves as an invitation to enter the capital of the UAE, marking arrival with dignity and strength. In this way, the museum resonates with the legacy of the nearby Maqta Fort, one of Abu Dhabi’s historic gateways..
The Museum was awarded First Place in an Invited International Competition. As lead designer with Voorsanger Architects, Martin Stigsgaard was responsible for the concept design and development of the winning scheme, which has since become a defining project for the UAE’s cultural and commemorative landscape.
Project Size
400,000sf
Location
Abu Dhabi, UAE
A Journey Through Peacekeeping
The vision of the museum draws inspiration from the legacy of His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father and first President of the United Arab Emirates. A statesman of remarkable foresight, Sheikh Zayed promoted peace not only within the Emirates but throughout the Middle East and beyond.
The museum is conceived as more than a repository of history; it is an immersive journey that narrates the UAE’s story of unity, resilience, and commitment to peacekeeping on the world stage. Exhibitions and spatial sequences guide visitors through episodes of defense, cooperation, and aspiration, all framed by the larger mission of fostering peace.
Ascent Toward Renewal and Aspiration
The architectural form is inspired by Jebel Hafeet, the iconic mountain rising from the desert where the Empty Quarter meets Abu Dhabi. This natural landmark, a symbol of endurance and permanence, informed the museum’s massing and its role as a beacon in the landscape.
The visitor’s path is conceived as both a physical and emotional ascent. Beginning at ground level, one moves through a sequence of exhibits and experiences that weave together the UAE’s military history with its cultural commitment to stability and peace. Gradually, the circulation rises toward the elevated museum platform, where visitors emerge into expansive views across Abu Dhabi. This final moment symbolizes renewal, vision, and the ongoing aspirations of the nation.
Elevated Platform of Strength
At the culmination of the visitor’s journey lies the Viewing Platform of Strength. Elevated high above the site, this platform provides a vantage point over both city and desert, symbolizing vigilance, remembrance, and confidence in the future. It represents the UAE’s readiness to honor its history while continuing to project stability and peace.
Elevated Platform of Strength
At the culmination of the visitor’s journey lies the Viewing Platform of Strength. Elevated high above the site, this platform provides a vantage point over both city and desert, symbolizing vigilance, remembrance, and confidence in the future. It represents the UAE’s readiness to honor its history while continuing to project stability and peace. At the culmination of the visitor’s journey lies the Viewing Platform of Strength. Elevated high above the site, this platform provides a vantage point over both city and desert, symbolizing vigilance, remembrance, and confidence in the future. It represents the UAE’s readiness to honor its history while continuing to project stability and peace.
