7 Architectural Marvels in Abu Dhabi: Conventional and Modern Landmarks in the Desert City

Stretching across 843m, the Sheikh Zayed Bridge is a landmark nearly every visitor will drive across during a trip to the UAE. Linking Abu Dhabi with the mainland, the bridge was designed by none other than Zaha Hadid, the first female recipient of the Pritzker Architecture Prize. The British and Iraqi origins of the architect clearly influenced the design of this massive steel structure which was built to resemble the curving of sand dunes and the wave patterns of the Gulf.

Louvre Abu Dhabi is another iconic point of interest you can't afford to miss whether you're based at Oaks Liwa Executive Suites or any other serviced apartments in Abu Dhabi. The brainchild of Jean Nouvel, the design of this monumental museum is one that combines traditional Arabian motifs with contemporary building styles. Home to a whopping 600 masterworks made up of paintings, sculptures and relics, the museum occupies nearly 9200 square meters. The 180m high latticed star dome which creates the "rain of light" effect when sunlight hits the roof is perhaps the most stunning feature of the building.

This imposing white granite and limestone presidential palace is another ornate structure that's the pride of Abu Dhabi. As a functional president's office, the venue that's also dubbed the " Palace of the Nation' pays homage to the U.A.E's heritage and artistic identity. Containing more than 5000 walls and floors adorned with mosaic patterns, the palace's Great Hall is where one of the globe's biggest domes is found.

As one of the most photographed buildings in the U.A.E, Capital Gate or the Leaning Tower of Abu Dhabi was declared the World's Furthest Manmade Leaning Building in 2010 by Guinness World Records. Leaning 18 degrees, the 524.9-foot structure is a modern-day marvel not only due to its shimmering glass exterior but also in how it seems to cut right across the horizon during sunset.

Ranked among the largest mosques not only in Abu Dhabi but the world at large, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is another visionary architectural gem that was commissioned by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. With 82 marble domes to its name, the mosque also boasts the world's biggest handmade carpet and an array of awe-inspiring Swarovski chandeliers, although the venue's most underrated element is clearly its massive marble mosaic works of art. 

The eco-friendly design of the Al Bahr Towers helmed by architect Abdulmajid Karanouh uses motifs from nature and Abu Dhabi culture for its inspiration. The "mashrabiya" design of the 29-storey circular building might be its most striking feature as its hive-like panels expand and contract according to the movement of the sun using a high-tech program.

With its signature clamshell design,  Aldar HQ is one of the few buildings in Abu Dhabi that pays tribute to its pearl diving and seafaring past. Towering above the surrounding landscape with its 100m height, the venue was also declared "One of the World's Most Dazzling Corporate Offices" by Emporis.