Zayed National Museum: Feel History, Shape the Future

The first national museum for the UAE and a memorial to Sheikh Zayed, the Zayed National Museum is one of the most significant global cultural institutions under development. The stunning building and garden are designed by Foster + Partners and combine a highly efficient, contemporary form with elements of traditional Arabic design and hospitality.

Magazine spread featuring Sheikh Zayed

BMD worked closely with the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism to develop a brand platform, tone, positioning and narrative that amplifies the role of history and the significance of this iconic project.

Banners for Zayed National Museum

Building on this brand strategy, we developed a fully bilingual visual identity system, the logo signalling the core notion of weaving together the various Emirates and their histories in one place.

Person holding shopping bag with Zayed National Museum branding
Tickets for Zayed National Museum

The palette, typography, photographic style and icon design come together to emphasize the beauty, heritage and timelessness of Emirati culture, creating a sensorial visual expression that brings the building and its purpose to life. 

Beauty of Pottery exhibit poster in front of palm tree
White notebook with black Zayed National Museum Logo
Bathroom wayfinding
“…a well developed brand that represents the deep history of the United Arab Emirates, reflects the culture of this nation and celebrates the values of Sheikh Zayed.”
– Dr. Peter Magee
Person holding white tote with black Zayed National Museum logo

For the Museum’s special exhibitions, we extend the brand through a flexible palette which pulls complementary colours from the artefacts which are specific to the exhibit on at the time.

Special Exhibition Programme for Zayed National Museum
Special Exhibition Programme
Special Exhibition Invitation to Pen and Word: The Arabic Language Through Time
Special Exhibition Invitation
Pen and Word exhibit poster
Special Exhibition Billboard

BMD developed a children's sub-brand that adapts the primary identity for a primary audience.

Zayed National Museum Kids activity set including activity guide, pins and coloured pencils.
Zayed National Museum Kids flash card set
Banners for Zayed National Museum Children's exhibit

Currently under construction, the Museum and garden are scheduled to open in 2025.

Zayed National Museum Hoarding in front of construction of the building
  • Client

    Zayed National Museum

  • Industry

    Art & Culture

  • Services

    Brand Identity

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