#Abu Dhabi #United Arab Emirates #architecture #Pritzker Prize

Abu Dhabi to Celebrate the 2025 Pritzker Architecture Prize

Abu Dhabi has officially been selected to host the esteemed Pritzker Architecture Prize ceremony in 2025, a landmark event that presents a historic moment for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Middle East. This prestigious accolade is often regarded as the highest honor in the field, celebrating architects whose work shows exceptional talent, visionary ideas, and a sustainable impact on humanity and the built environment.

The choice of Abu Dhabi signals an exciting new chapter in the cultural journey of the UAE’s capital, emphasizing its role as a nexus for the world’s finest creative minds. It reflects the city’s growing influence on the global architectural discourse, underpinned by bold investments in cultural and innovative projects that blend heritage with sustainability.

Noteworthy architectural icons, such as the Cultural Foundation's rejuvenation, the Louvre Abu Dhabi designed by Pritzker laureate Jean Nouvel, and the forthcoming Zayed National Museum by Norman Foster, have established Abu Dhabi as a pivotal center for transformative architecture. These flagship projects align seamlessly with the Abu Dhabi government’s ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting its rich cultural heritage while fostering creativity and innovation as essential drivers of sustainable growth.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, expressed his honor at this selection, highlighting it as a testament to Abu Dhabi's recognition as a cultural hub. He stated, "Hosting the Pritzker Prize is a unique opportunity to provide a platform for sharing ideas that will mold the cities of tomorrow. This reinforces Abu Dhabi's long-term vision to embed creativity, dialogue, and sustainability at the heart of our development, and emphasizes the transformative power of architecture in shaping communities and enriching lives."

The Pritzker Prize has a longstanding tradition of being awarded in locations that hold architectural and historical significance across various times and geographies. Tom Pritzker, Chairman of The Hyatt Foundation, noted that the UAE's growing presence on the global arts and culture scene and its commitment to supporting the works of international architects add depth to the event, which will feature three iconic buildings – all designed by Pritzker laureates – each reshaping Abu Dhabi's skyline.

The ceremony will coincide with a public roundtable discussion on May 3 at the Cultural Foundation, led by Liu Jiakun, the 2025 laureate, who will be joined by fellow architects Riken Yamamoto (2024), David Chipperfield (2023), and Francis Kéré (2022). This gathering will delve into the critical role of architecture in celebrating cultural expression as reflected in their work, as well as the future of the built environment.

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi is dedicated to sustainably advancing Abu Dhabi’s cultural and tourism sectors and its creative industries, propelling economic growth while contributing to broader global ambitions. Their collaboration with organizations enhances the emirate's position as a premier international destination and unifies efforts toward leveraging the Emirate’s potential through innovative solutions and best practices.

In summary, the 2025 Pritzker Architecture Prize in Abu Dhabi exemplifies a melding of tradition, innovation, and architectural dialogue, thus positioning the emirate as a vital stage in the global cultural landscape.

For more details about the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the destination, visit dct.gov.ae and abudhabiculture.ae.