Museum of the Future brings a future-focused vision to life in Dubai

This commitment to creating a better tomorrow is reflected in the design and construction of the building. The Museum’s founders wanted to showcase low-carbon best practices in line with the United Arab Emirate’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. That meant sustainability had to be built in.

The founders are using the latest technologies to achieve their sustainability goals. That includes utilizing the Facility Explorer smart building automation system. The system connects heating and cooling, lighting, fire and security systems in one digital platform. It gives the museum's leaders a clear view of all building data and helps them make more informed and timely decisions about the efficiency of their assets and the safety and comfort of staff members and visitors. Leaders can also address emerging issues from wherever they are in the building. Handheld devices help them identify possible glitches in the heating or cooling systems and address them before they affect people's enjoyment of the Museum or incur costs.

High-tech solutions have also been deployed to ensure the safety and security of visitors. A state-of-the-art security system meets the Foundation's strict security standards without affecting the iconic building design. CCTV cameras are concealed so they blend seamlessly with the curved surfaces of the Museum, and access control card readers are integrated into their environment.

The Foundation has used technology and innovative techniques to create a unique and dynamic space that has minimal impact on the environment.

The Museum of the Future's primary objective is to inspire people to reimagine the future and empower them to shape it. It achieves this through its ever-evolving content, which includes ongoing events and continually changing exhibitions.

Its circular form represents humanity and the void at the center symbolizes the unknown. Rising 77 metres above the city and spanning 30,548 m², the building's facade is made from more than 1,000 stainless steel panels and adorned with calligraphic quotes from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai.

The founders have taken advantage of the local climate and materials to minimize the Museum's impact on the planet. The design of the building allows natural light to flood the interior, which reduces the need for electricity. Energy-efficient LED lighting illuminates the property at night. Solar panels provide 4,000 megawatt hours a year of renewable energy, which is a third of the Museum's electricity consumption. The building also features advanced thermal insulation and sustainable materials.

Outside, a smart irrigation network uses a sub-surface mat system to deliver water directly to the roots of plants in a targeted and efficient manner. Landscapers also minimized the demand for water by selecting native and drought-friendly plants that can withstand Dubai's climate.

Energy and water use have been reduced during operations as well. Multiple collection and water recycling systems reduce water wastage by around 25 percent.