Ready for a journey into the future? Museum of the Future launches us forward in time to 2071 where we discover what the world might look like a generation or two from now. We discover Earth from space, new generation wellness, DNA libraries and future play.
Divided into 7 levels, even the entrance is a future experience. Although we have booked online, our wrist tags are issued by scanning our QR code on one of the foyer ticket machines. As we queue for entry, a (machine) animal floats across the ceiling towards a functioning yet futuristic looking spiral staircase.
OSS Hope (Level 5)
Soon we are being launched into space and forward in time to 2071. When we step out of the space shuttle onto OSS Hope’s (Orbital Space Station) command centre we can see planet Earth from our vantage point in space. From here we are able to monitor projects, explore inventions and even apply for a position ourselves.
It is thought provoking if you take the time to read and interpret the vast array of information presented in a somewhat abstract way. Children will love the interactive buttons and displays, however, without some guidance and explanation, they might not learn much.
The HEAL Institute (Level 4)
After our drop pod lands us back in Dubai we take one of the vertical transport options (lifts or stairs) to Level 4 where the Heal Institute takes us through innovations designed to heal our planet.
A DNA library stores the genetic code of thousands of species. Designed to enable regeneration and subsequent strengthening of the ecosystem through bioengineering, this also feeds into the sustainable theme.
We experience the flow of energy of a rainforest through the focus of a Ceiba tree. Here we are able to imagine a world which heals itself including a fire resistant tree and a flora rich Empty Quarter using seed bombs as germination tools.
Al Waha (Level 3)
Al Waha is 2071’s spa for mind and body. A complete wellness centre focussed on all the senses. Al Waha’s calming entry takes us along a corridor of archways where Aya, our avatar, guides us through the therapies that await.
The archways open out to a virtual beach where waves flow around us as our feet sink into the soft (virtual) sand. Around this, therapy rooms focussed on feel, grounding and sound await.
Al Waha Therapies
Feeling Therapy: Here we are able to reconnect our mind and body by exploring our hands’ ability to feel subtle, nuanced sensations. We place our hands around a small mound where electromagnetic pulses vibrate soothingly through our palms and fingers.
“The human hand is one of the most complex and beautiful pieces of natural engineering ever created. No other body part has the hand’s dexterity, sensitivity or muscle intelligence Digital technology emphasizes a limited range of actions, reducing the thousands of tasks our hands can perform to just tapping, typing and swiping. By reducing what our hands do, we also reduce what we feel, shrinking the regions of the brain involved in sensitivity, awareness, and empathy.” – Museum of the Future
Grounding Therapy: In the next session we enter a space with paneled wooden walls and columns. In the centre a large gong radiates sound through the area caused by sound wave vibrations behind the gong. Seats are positioned within curtained sections giving the impression of a calming waiting room where, lost in contemplation, the sound vibrations surround and soothe.
Sound Therapy: In this room a group sits around a table and collectively hums into a speaker. The sound waves travel into the centre, depicted by colorful digital projections, to join and connect the participants.
Reflections
After these therapies we move onto a room of reflection. A pool of water floats on columns in a tranquil room. There is space to lie or sit back and watch the ripples reflect on the roof and around the room. It is calming and if you can switch your mind off from the outside noises, relaxation may abound. My husband nearly fell asleep while all I could hear was children shrieking from outside the room!
Tomorrow Today (Level 2)
The Tomorrow Today exhibit on Level 2 is probably the closest to a traditional museum that can be experience here. Except, instead of looking at artifacts from the past, be it recent or distant, this space only exhibits items that are real or imagined for future use.
Among the exhibits are the Audi Skysphere, a Gravity Jet Suit and Micro Palette by Toyota.
The Audi Skysphere concept is an “electric, two-door glimpse into the future”. A luxurious interior provides a fully interactive space where the autonomous driving vehicle makes it possible to deliver a range of other captivating experiences in this “human centric ecosystem”.
The Gravity Jet Suit operates with kerosene engines attached to 3D printed arms powered with a battery in a backpack. The vision is an individualised, more accessible, more sustainable commute.
Toyota’s micro palette reimagines delivery. It replaces delivery drivers with small electric autonomous vehicles intended to complete the last few miles of a parcel’s journey. The vehicle foreseeing reusable packaging and displays messages, greetings or advertising, depending on its mission and destination.
Future Heroes (Level 1)
The Future Heroes concept is a children only play area designed to ignite imagination and creativity. Available to those 10 years and younger, the children enter a padded (rubberised) moonscape where sections deliver different experiences. Balls falling from the sky, climbing frames head into space and there is room to run (and hide) from parents.
Good To Know
Museum of the Future is located along Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) and adjacent to Emirates Towers near DIFC. Book tickets online to ensure availability. Ideally arrive 15 minutes before your time allocation, ensurin you get the most from your experience. Parking is available on site (3 hours free with museum entry). Street parking at RTA hourly rates is also available close by.
Would I Return?
Yes. This is a fun family experience with lots of ‘wow’ factor.
Truly like something out of the future, the Museum of the Future transports us to another time.
