Zaha Hadid, the renowned Iraqi-British architect, is celebrated for her groundbreaking designs and her innovative use of fluid, sweeping curves. Her work embodies cultural expression, expands creative boundaries, and reshapes contemporary architecture. From her first built project, the Vitra Fire Station in Germany, to Abu Dhabi’s iconic Sheikh Zayed Bridge, her impact is unmistakable. This article explores Zaha Hadid’s architectural legacy, with a focus on her most notable designs in the UAE.
1. Azizi Venice: Dubai's second Opera House
Dubai South’s cultural district features a striking collection of venues that elevate the emirate’s creative scene. At its core is a 2,500-seat opera house designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, showcasing a bold, futuristic form with advanced acoustic and visual technology for an exceptional performance experience. A flexible 400-seat theatre adds an intimate space for drama, comedy, workshops, and smaller shows.
The district also includes a large exhibition hall for up to 2,000 visitors, suitable for everything from traditional art to digital installations. To support emerging talent, a dedicated performing arts academy rounds out the development.
2. Sheikh Zayed Bridge, Abu Dhabi
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.
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.
