ÅVONTUURA is excited to announce the launch of its Architecture Guide to Dubai & Sharjah; the 18th guide in its ground-breaking Wandering Series.
Dubai, a city synonymous with ambition and innovation, has emerged as one of the world’s most iconic architectural landscapes. From its humble beginnings as a modest trading port in the early 20th century, Dubai’s rapid transformation mirrors its visionary ethos. Fueled by economic prosperity and a relentless pursuit of excellence, the city boasts a skyline that rivals any global metropolis, blending tradition and modernity in extraordinary ways.
Traditional architecture in Dubai remains a vital link to its rich heritage. The Dubai Old Village and Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood offer visitors a glimpse into the past with their sand-colored wind towers, narrow alleyways, and intricately adorned courtyards. These historic districts stand as reminders of the city’s resilience in the face of a harsh desert climate, showcasing ingenious cooling techniques and materials that connect modern-day Dubai to its roots.
Contemporary architecture in Dubai is nothing short of breathtaking. The Burj Al Arab, with its sail-like design, and the towering Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, define Dubai’s bold approach to urban development. On the man-made Palm Islands, the iconic Hotel Atlantis and its newer counterpart, the Royal Atlantis, blend luxury with architectural spectacle.
Meanwhile, the Expo 2020 site continues to captivate, with standout structures like Santiago Calatrava’s UAE Pavilion—a futuristic homage to the falcon in flight—remaining open for exploration.
Sharjah, just a short drive from Dubai, offers a more understated yet equally compelling architectural narrative. Known as the cultural capital of the UAE, Sharjah embraces modernity while celebrating its identity. Highlights include the House of Wisdom, a serene library and cultural space designed by Foster + Partners, and the BEEAH Headquarters, a sustainable masterpiece by Zaha Hadid Architects. Together, these cities present a dynamic tapestry of tradition and innovation, making them essential destinations for architecture enthusiasts.
This thoroughly researched architecture guide is a must-have for architecture enthusiasts of all ages. It makes travel planning effortless and boasts an up-to-date curated list of buildings not found anywhere else; the perfect pocket-companion for your next trip abroad.
Features
1. The cover features a unique architectural icon that celebrates a local project and is illustrated as a wandering path, capturing the joy of architecture and discovery.
Cover Illustration: Burj Al Arab by WKK Architects
2. A map identifying the general locations of the buildings, major and medium-sized road networks,
urban areas, watersheds, parks and other natural features.
3. A Recommended Route identifying a must-see network of buildings and landmarks, with dashed
lines indicating routes for contemporary, modern and historical interests.
4. A Legend of selected architectural projects featuring beautifully detailed building icons, the name of
the architect(s) / designers involved, and an address for where it can be found.
5. QR code connecting you to our digital guide with pinned locations and directions in Google Maps.
Purchase our Architecture Guide to Dubai & Sharjah here.
