Architecture

Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre Al Ain

Location: Al Ain, AE
Client: AWPR, Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort
Area Gross: 15.000 m²
Building Costs: 280 Mio AED
Start of Planning: 2008
Completion: 2013

The building functions as an educational museum as well as a research centre for desert and environment related issues.
It is an accessible sculpture which is inspired by its surrounding rugged landscape.
The structural form generates a continuous loop in the architectural promenade akin to the Moebius band.
Unlike the flat desert where one experiences only the horizontal flat planes the building offers an array of experiences in the vertical axis.
It spirals up around a central courtyard to a high point which offers a vista to the safari park and the mountain ridge.
The building has obtained LEED Platinum and Estidama five pearls design rating.

Official website museum: www.szdlc.ae