Mecanoo's Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi Opens in 2025

Mecanoo has finalized the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, a 35,000 m² facility scheduled to open in 2025. The architectural design is influenced by the region's geological features and wadis, allowing the structure to rise from the landscape as if sculpted by time. This concept emphasizes the convergence of water and earth, highlighting it as a source of movement and change. Rather than a standalone entity, the museum is envisioned as a landscape molded by natural elements, merging architecture with the terrain. Visitors will engage with natural history even before entering the museum. The 82,000 m² site encompasses a plaza, gardens, galleries, educational facilities, and more. The design team features Mecanoo, Egis Group, and others, while exhibit design is by Ralph Apelbaum and Barker Langham. The client is the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT), with Miral as developer and Alec as main contractor. Photographs are credited to Ossip Architectuurfotografie and Deed Studio.