dubai opera house moves closer to completion in the UAE

dubai opera house moves closer to completion in the UAE
images courtesy of EMAAR

the city of dubai is ready to add to its roster of impressive architecture with a new cultural complex, designed by atkins, to be built opposite the world’s tallest building. the ‘dubai opera’, initiated by global property developers EMAAR, forms the centerpiece of the city’s downtown opera district – a region that will eventually include a range of luxury hotels and residences, a retail plaza, restaurants, recreational spaces and parks.

accessed from mohammed bin rashif boulevard, the district is connected with pedestrianized walkways and animated streets. not only will the shaded plaza encourage people to spend time outdoors, but also guide pedestrians towards the landscaped waterfront promenade.

the ‘dubai opera’ forms the centerpiece of the city’s downtown opera district

the ‘dubai opera’ is a 2,000 seat multi-format theater whose design is born from the city’s maritime history, in particular arabian sailing vessels. the ‘bow’ of the structure contains the main stage, orchestra and seating areas, while the elongated ‘hull’ features waiting areas for spectators, a taxi-drop off area and parking amenities. the scheme boasts a number of versatile spaces including a lounge positioned at the uppermost level, with the restaurant, which also contains a small stage for performances, presenting sweeping views across the neighboring lake and towards the towering burj khalifa.

the district is connected with pedestrianized walkways and animated streets

importantly, the complex has the ability to transform into three different modes; a theater, a concert hall, and a ‘flat floor’ – an open space for a variety of banquets or special events. in theater mode, the space is suitable for opera, musicals, ballet and dance performances, large scale drama productions, lectures and conferences – seating between 1,940 and 2,040 guests depending on configuration.

the design stems from the city’s maritime history, and in particular arabian sailing vessels

in order to transform the venue into a concert hall, a series of towers on stage create an acoustic shell that surrounds the orchestra, while overhead reflectors enhance the hall’s acoustics. in addition, the concert platform can vary in size to suit the ensemble. in the third arrangement – ‘flat floor’ mode – the room caters for a number of events, including weddings, with banquet-style seating able to accommodate up to 1,000 guests. the volume offers the flexibility to be configured for trade shows and exhibitions where furniture can be supplied or removed accordingly.

the scheme guides pedestrians towards the landscaped waterfront promenade

mohamed alabbar, chairman of EMAAR properties, said: ‘the opera district highlights the vision of his highness sheikh mohammed bin rashid al maktoum, UAE vice president and prime minister and ruler of dubai, to develop a vibrant cultural community and events destination in the city which will encourage our talented local artists and also promote global cultural exchange.

‘dubai opera, which is central to the new arts and lifestyle district, will be a spectacular addition to downtown dubai, already home to global icons such as burj khalifa. the state-of-the-art opera house and the varied lifestyle components of the opera district will energize dubai’s events and tourism sectors. with the city establishing its global reputation as an arts hub, the new development will also strengthen the ‘dubai art season,’ which brings together the city’s vibrant arts initiatives.’

the complex is on track to open its doors to the public in 2016.

in theater mode the space is suitable for opera, musicals, ballet and dance performances