From Ancient Foundations to Modern Marvels: The Evolution of UAE in Architecture and Design

Over the past fifty years, the architectural landscape of the United Arab Emirates has undergone a dramatic transformation. From its early days of modest Bedouin structures, traditional wind towers, and small commercial hubs, UAE has evolved into a metropolis known for its towering skyscrapers, cutting-edge designs, and expansive suburban developments. This swift metamorphosis, particularly notable from the late 1980s onward, raises a compelling question: how did the UAE become one of the most distinctive technological hubs in the Arab East?

In this article, we seek to explore some of the factors behind this architectural evolution. In particular, we will examine:

• Dubai’s Cultural Heritage – Ancient Structures and Barajeels

• The Industrial Revolution and its Impact on UAE

• The Birth of UAE and the Rise of Local Art Scene

• The Iconic Architecture: Burj Khalifa and Beyond

Dubai’s Cultural Heritage – Ancient Structures and Barajeels

Dubai's ancient architecture was influenced by the Antiquity period, which featured arches, domes, aqueducts, and amphitheatres. They were not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional. Arches and domes, for instance, allowed for the creation of large, open interior spaces, while aqueducts demonstrated advanced engineering capabilities for water transport. 

Al Ahmadiya School, established in 1912, showcases traditional Emirati architecture with its use of courtyards, wind towers, and decorative arches, blending functional design with historical aesthetics.

Al Ahmadiya School, 1912

Another example of this is the Jumeirah Mosque, built in the traditional Fatimid style with large domes and arches, reflecting the continuation of ancient architectural principles. 

Jumeirah Mosque

Furthermore, Dubai's architecture was deeply influenced by traditional Islamic designs that were both functional and harmonious with the harsh desert environment.

One of the most distinctive features of this period was the use of wind towers, known locally as Barajeel. These square towers were ingeniously designed as natural cooling systems, directing the wind down into the living spaces below and providing relief from the intense heat. Constructed from locally sourced materials such as coral, mud, palm wood, and gypsum, Barajeel exemplified the resourceful use of available resources. Remnants of these traditional wind towers can still be seen in historical areas like Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, serving as a testament to Dubai’s rich architectural heritage.

Al Fahidi

Engineers today are drawing inspiration from these ancient cooling techniques as part of a broader movement towards sustainable architecture. For example, Masdar City in Abu Dhabi has incorporated modern interpretations of Barajeel to enhance energy efficiency and reduce reliance on air conditioning, showcasing a blend of traditional wisdom and contemporary innovation.

The Industrial Revolution and Its Impact on UAE

The Industrial Revolution, which began in England around 1750 and lasted until sometime between 1820 and 1840, profoundly impacted global architecture and development, including the regions that would later become the United Arab Emirates (UAE). 

The influence of British authorities during the Trucial States protectorate resulted in many architectural changes from the Industrial Revolution. 

As progressive industrialization and urbanization spread worldwide, new industries emerged, producing durable consumer goods that fueled economic growth and mass production. Thanks to the newly-adopted machine production, many materials became more accessible at that time. This had also led to the adoption of concrete, metal, and glass, the integration of which marked a revolutionary phase in the UAE's architectural landscape, enabling innovative construction technologies.

Dubai at the end of the 19th - beginning of the 20th century: architectural transformations

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Dubai began to prosper from the pearl trade, which brought increased wealth and international influence. During this era, the city saw the construction of more elaborate and durable buildings using coral stone, supported by wooden poles and adorned with intricate gypsum decorations. This way, Dubai began to absorb influences from foreign traders and visitors, evolving from purely traditional designs to a blend of local and external ones.

The discovery of oil in the 1960s brought another major transformation in Dubai, speeding up modernization and urban development. With increased wealth from oil exports, the introduction of air conditioning and modern construction materials enabled the construction of tall buildings, drastically changing the city's skyline. This period also involved significant investment in infrastructure, such as roads and ports, pushing Dubai further into the modern era.