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.
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.
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.
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.
“…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
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.
BMD developed a children's sub-brand that adapts the primary identity for a primary audience.
Currently under construction, the Museum and garden are scheduled to open in 2025.