Zaha Hadid: Groundbreaking UAE Designs

Zaha Hadid, the Iraqi-British architect, is celebrated for her groundbreaking designs, characterized by the innovative use of curves. Her architectural creations reflect cultural values, push the boundaries of imagination, and redefine modern architecture. Hadid’s influence is evident from her first built project, the Vitra Fire Station in Germany, to the iconic Sheikh Zayed Bridge in Abu Dhabi. In this article, we delve into Zaha Hadid’s architectural legacy, focusing on her top designs in the UAE.

The Sheikh Zayed Bridge, which opened in 2010, is one of Zaha Hadid’s early UAE structural designs. Named in honor of the UAE's founding father, the bridge symbolizes the connection between past and present.

This 2-way, 4-lane highway bridge features cantilevered road decks suspended from symmetrical arches, forming a wave-like sinusoidal shape. The design is inspired by the natural desert landscape of the UAE, with its sweeping steel and concrete structure mimicking the undulating curves of sand dunes.

1. Sheikh Zayed Bridge, Abu Dhabi

2. Cultural District at Dubai South

Situated in the heart of Dubailand along E611 Emirates Road, The Residences at Al Habtoor Polo Club is a distinguished community featuring 122 luxury villas. Designed with elegance in mind, these villas offer a perfect balance of aesthetics and comfort, surrounded by lush landscapes that create a peaceful sanctuary.

At the heart of this development is the Al Habtoor Polo & Equestrian Club, spanning an impressive 6 million square feet. It features an Andalusian-style hotel, upscale bars, and gourmet dining options. As the Middle East’s premier polo destination, it offers world-class equestrian facilities, allowing residents to embrace a lifestyle where luxury, sport, and nature seamlessly intertwine.

3. The Opus, Dubai

The Opus, located in the Burj Khalifa district, is a striking architectural masterpiece developed by Omniyat. Designed by Zaha Hadid and her team, the building spans over 84,300 square meters and consists of two distinct towers that merge seamlessly into a unified structure.

The design explores the relationship between solid and void, opaque and transparent. Home to residential apartments, office spaces, and the 5-star ME Hotel, The Opus is unique as Zaha Hadid designed both its architecture and interiors.

4. Abu Dhabi Performing Arts Center

Located within the Cultural District on Saadiyat Island, the Abu Dhabi Performing Arts Center is a future landmark. Designed by Zaha Hadid, this arts hub will house five theaters, a music hall, and an opera house.

Described by Hadid as “a sculptural form emerging from a linear intersection of pedestrian paths,” the design evolves as it progresses, creating a growing organism-like structure. The performance spaces are housed in “branches” that extend from the main structure, facing westward toward the water.

The US $6.5 billion Aljada Central Hub is set to become a major leisure and entertainment destination in Sharjah, covering over 65,000 square meters. Currently under construction, it is expected to open in 2025.

The design resembles a water droplet’s impact on the earth’s surface, with oval-shaped buildings strategically placed to direct prevailing winds into communal spaces. The project integrates smart and sustainable technologies, with a microclimate sustained by recycled water and solar-powered lighting.

5. Aljada Central Hub, Sharjah