Joanna James
The UAE and the nation’s association with stunning architecture hardly need any introduction, for the Gulf country’s slew of mind-blowing architectural wonders are among the most typical of the nation’s fabled sensation. Come, let the architecture buff in you unleash in the beautiful UAE.
At a mind-boggling 828 metres, the tallest building in the world adds yet another superlative to the UAE, something certainly the Gulf nation has no shortage of. Burj Khalifa, standing tall in downtown Dubai, is the exotic city’s undisputed crown jewel and an unmissable destination for many, if not, all of its travellers. The futuristic design is supposedly an inspiration of Islamic architecture and is said to resemble the natural shape of a desert flower. Zoom up to the 124th floor, where the modish observation deck affords breathtaking views of the world-class Dubai cityscape.
At Louvre Abu Dhabi, it’s not only architecture buffs that are appeased, but also ardent art and history buffs, as the universal museum houses over 600 masterpieces of art and artefacts from around the world. While it’s the incredible collection of multi-regional art that draws the crowd, for the architecture enthusiasts, it’s the iconic star-latticed dome that puts the museum on the itinerary. Eight-layered and 180 metres tall, the distinctively designed dome allows sunlight to filter through and cast an alluring light on the interiors, making for a magical “rain of light”.
Standing in all its glory at the end of Abu Dhabi’s famous Corniche, Etihad Towers dominates the capital city’s glimmering world-class skyline. It is a striking complex of 5 skyscrapers, with the tallest tower reaching 305 metres in height. Visitors to the observation deck on the 74th floor are greeted by panoramic views of the vibrant metropolis. To add to your delight, the capital city is also home to properties offered by major hotel chains, including the likes of Minor Hotels.
The capital city of Abu Dhabi basks in the glory of being home to the largest mosque in all of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. While the 82 Moroccan-designed white marble domes are the architectural highlight of the mosque, there’s a whole lot more to treat your eyes to, including the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, the imposing 1,000 pillars and the countless chandeliers adorned with millions of Swarovski crystals. It’s important to note that visitors are welcomed only outside of prayer times.
In the midst of the towering, ultra-modern structures immediately characteristic of the exotic Gulf city, Dubai Creek takes you back in time to the Dubai of centuries past, with the city’s quaint charm still intact in the old-world quarter. Scores of traditional buildings inspired by Bedouin design occupy the creek, striking a fascinating juxtaposition set amidst the glass-swathed skyscrapers of Dubai.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
