The Etihad Museum, containing the site of the historic Union House, is located in Jumeirah 1, Dubai. On a day out to discover more about the history of the UAE, we arrive at the museum to witness the futuristic interpretation of a building that preserves and displays the nation’s heritage. The museum is intended to capture the story of the United Arab Emirates, its visionary leaders, and the important events in history that led to the unification of the seven Emirates and the formation of the United Arab Emirates on 2 December 1971.
The Pavilion
Before entering the exhibition, we are captivated by the architecture of the building and the symbolism of the structure itself. The curving Pavilion with its scroll-like form was designed by Canadian firm Moriyama & Teshima Architects. The curve of the building mimics the parchment paper of the UAE Constitution while the impressive entryway features embossed bronze columns which represents pens in motion, referencing the signing of the document that formalised the Emirati unification.
The bronze text reproduces the nations founding philosophy. It appears to float on a page of marble amid the light and airy surrounds.
The marble continues down a majestic curved staircase to the permanent exhibition downstairs in the subterranean museum. Before we get to the first of the eight ‘pavilions’ of the museum section, we stop short. A massive, eye-catching painting of the UAE and its surrounds confronts us. The painting is by the famous Emirati artist Abdul Qader Al Rais.
The Museum
The eight pavilions of the permanent exhibition cover aspects of the social, political, cultural and military history of the nation. The exhibits are a mixture of film, mixed media, timelines and more traditional artifacts. They all lead towards the focal point being a display of the Constitution of the United Arab Emirates.
After watching a documentary film about the history of the UAE and exploring interactive maps and timelines, we pause to consider the seven leaders. Together, these leader created and implemented a vision which made the nation we know today.
It is uncommon for a generation to have witnessed the creation of a nation. Even less for it to have been achieved peacefully and documented so readily. Photos, interviews and explanations walk us through the key historical events: the formation of the union; important moments; and challenges that confronted the founding fathers in their journey.
​The display of biographies, family trees and unique pictures weaves the spaces together. These seek to build a picture of how and why the UAE came about. It also lays out the vision that Sheikh Zayed held for the future of the nation. A nation which he had been elected to lead.
The Leaders
“The United Arab Emirates’ social structure has been and still is based on tribal clans across the country no matter where they settled, whether it be on the coast, deserts, oases, mountains or islands. This natural human system stems from the natural instinct to have a sense of belonging. For within every clan, individuals pay allegiance to the other individuals, and the clans, whether they be of the same tribe or a different one pay allegiance to a tribal leader of the main tribe in the area. This is also drawn upon in the familiar proverb “Unity is strength”. For this unity builds the internal structure for the Emirates and is considered the nucleus that has founded the strength, success and stability of the Emirates.
The Emirates are connected together as fingers to a hand. Wherein despite the many difficulties the tribes faced before the founding of the Council of Trucial State Rulers, they were overcome quite soon.
In 1968 the United Kingdom announced its intentions to end its protectorate over the course of the following three years. This brought it upon the rulers to take upon themselves the fate and future of the Emirates. And so, after many meetings, discussions and obstacles, the founding rulers met to plant the seeds of unity and place the foundations to the country, and pledged their allegiance to the country and it’s ruler.”
– Etihad Museum
The Constitution
This sets the scene to witness the Constitution of the Federation of the United Arab Emirates. Having been signed by the Founding Governors of the Emirates, in conjunction with the Treaty of Friendship between the UAE and UK, the Constitution is displayed in both Arabic and English. Phrases from the Constitution grace the golden fresco which wraps protectively around the cabinet containing this precious historic document.
Union House and the Flag
This staircase and the courtyard known as Union Tree Garden are more architectural highlights of the museum. As we head onto the outdoor concourse, we look back to the striking facade of the Etihad Museum Pavilion. Onward to Union House, the location of the signing of the historic Treaty and Constitution in 1971.
Outside again in the manicured park that lies along the waterfront overlooking the Pearl Jumeirah is the Union House Flag. At 123 meters in height, I feel positively miniscule as I look up to watch the flag flying in the uncharacteristic Dubai breeze.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum originally raised the flag at Union House. This day marks the beginning of Flag Day Celebration traditions. Flag Day commemorates the anniversary of Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan becoming the president of the UAE in 2004.
The population commemorates on November 3 year. Emiratis reaffirm their allegiance to the UAE flag, a symbol of the country’s unity. It is also an opportunity to remember and reflect on the efforts of the founding fathers; Sheikh Zayed, Sheikh Rashid and their brothers from the five other Emirates.
Good To Know
Etihad Museum is open 10am – 8pm daily (hours may differ over public and religious holidays). Entry to the museum is AED25 for adults and AED10 for students. Entry to the concourse is free.
Allow 1-2 hours for a thorough visit of the museum including temporary exhibitions. There is a restaurant on site.
Would I Return?
Yes. It is an interesting exhibition and a beautiful building.
One Reply to “Etihad Museum”