Zayed National Museum Unveils Contemporary Majlis Al Shaheen, Celebrating Emirati Heritage and Innovation

Inside the Zayed National Museum in Abu Dhabi, the newly completed Majlis Al Shaheen exemplifies modern Emirati hospitality through its upscale interpretation of the traditional majlis. Designed by Agata Kurzela Studio based in Dubai, this space is part of a broader initiative to highlight the work of both Emirati artists and international designers within the museum’s exhibitions.

Opened on December 3, 2025, the Zayed National Museum is dedicated to the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the leader who unified the seven emirates of the UAE in 1971. The museum serves as a cultural touchstone, reflecting on over 300,000 years of the nation’s history while bridging traditional elements with contemporary design.

A Contemporary Take on Tradition

Agata Kurzela, the project’s lead designer, emphasized that the goal was to allow Emirati creatives to showcase their heritage through modern expressions. She noted that Emirati designers today draw heavily from their rich culture, with their works serving as “a springboard into something new.” This philosophy underlines the intention to present a unique perspective on Emirati life and culture, blending the old and the new.

The architecture of the museum, designed by renowned Pritzker Prize-winning architect Lord Norman Foster, features five lightweight steel towers resembling falcon wings. These structures symbolize the UAE’s resilience and innovative spirit, akin to the national bird, the falcon.

Design Elements Reflecting Emirati Values

The interior spaces of the museum were developed to engage with the architectural themes and collections, amplifying the voices of local talent. Kurzela described the intention behind the museum’s design as an effort to “expand the legacy of the living culture of the UAE,” integrating traditional rituals of gathering and hospitality into contemporary spatial language.

The majlis serves as a focal point, drawing inspiration from essential cultural elements such as gahwa (Arabic coffee), dates, and woven palm fronds. The design includes a warm and textured palette featuring materials like rope, wool, ceramic, camel leather, metal, and stone — all of which are native to the UAE.

Integrating Cultural Pluralism

At the heart of the Zayed National Museum is Al Liwan, the public atrium that welcomes visitors. Within this space, the Research Library features an 18-meter replica of the Magan Boat, an ancient maritime vessel that sailed the Arabian Gulf over 4,000 years ago. Its design, inspired by traditional Bedouin tents, utilizes raw materials such as reeds and goat hair.

According to Kurzela, the design efforts deliberately chose to build upon the existing cultural narratives rather than recreate them. The emphasis is placed on envisioning a future shaped by the legacy of Sheikh Zayed, fostering an environment that honors both tradition and innovation.

Craftsmanship and Artistry on Display

Distinct furniture and decor pieces play crucial roles in exemplifying the museum’s interconnectedness with Emirati heritage. For instance, the Wasl furniture collection by Emirati designer Abdalla Al Mulla features reconfigurable designs that reflect a contemporary adaptation of the misbah, or prayer beads.

Another notable contribution is the Ned sofa and table system, created by Omar Al Gurg. Made from sustainable materials sourced in the UAE, these elements reflect a modern interpretation of the Misned, a traditional backrest cushion. Artwork by Emirati artist Juma Al Haj adorns the walls, emphasizing local artistic talent.

Reflecting the Seasons and Landscapes

In line with regional climatic influences, various spaces within the Zayed National Museum invoke the Al Durour calendar, a traditional Emirati system dividing the year into climatic phases. The Majlis Al Hurr space, for example, is inspired by the winter season and features materials and designs that embody both shelter and aesthetic beauty during the cooler months.

Local talents, such as Aljoud Lootah and One Third Studio, have created pieces that incorporate regional design philosophies, such as camel leather detailing, which evoke the local landscape. Carpets produced by traditional Afghan artisans enhance the multicultural aspect of the museum, marrying local narratives with global craftsmanship.

An Invitation to Experience

The Zayed National Museum’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural pluralism is further highlighted through handcrafted rugs that adorn its spaces, reflecting the diverse nationalities that coexist within the UAE. The artisanal carpets supplied by Zuleya, an initiative under the Fatima Bint Mohamed Bin Zayed Initiative, celebrate the craftsmanship of Afghan artisans while honoring Sheikh Zayed’s vision for social impact.

The design language throughout the museum harmoniously merges past traditions with modern influences, echoing the dynamic rhythms of the UAE’s desert landscape. This blend is a powerful representation of the innovative and determined spirit inherent within Emirati culture.

For further insights into the museum’s offerings, visit MOJEH.