Photo Credit : WAM
The Ministry of Culture has officially added Union House to the National Register of Modern Architectural Heritage, making it the first site to be recognised under the new national initiative aimed at preserving the UAE’s modern architectural and cultural legacy.
The announcement was made during a visit by H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, and Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture. Organised in collaboration with Dubai Culture and Arts Authority and Al Serkal Advisory, the visit highlighted the country’s commitment to protecting landmarks that reflect the UAE’s history, identity and architectural heritage.
During the visit, Sheikha Latifa and Sheikh Salem unveiled a commemorative plaque marking Union House’s inclusion in the Register. The National Register, launched by the Ministry of Culture, documents and safeguards buildings and sites of historical and architectural significance across the UAE, strengthening the national narrative and preserving cultural identity for future generations.
The dignitaries also toured Union House, where the meetings leading to the formation of the UAE took place before the declaration of the Union on December 2, 1971. The landmark remains one of the country’s most important national symbols, representing unity, cooperation and the shared vision of the Founding Fathers.
The visit concluded with a session titled “The Union House: Celebrating Modern Architectural Heritage,” presented by Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the UAE President. He reflected on the UAE’s formative years and emphasised the importance of preserving modern architectural landmarks that document the nation’s growth and historical journey.
Sheikha Latifa said Union House holds a unique place in the UAE’s collective memory as the birthplace of the Union and the site where the Founding Fathers united to shape the nation’s future. She added that the values established within its walls continue to inspire the country’s progress, while its recognition as the first site on the National Register marks an important milestone in preserving the UAE’s modern heritage.
She also noted that the designation reinforces the UAE’s commitment to protecting landmarks that preserve collective memory, celebrate national identity and ensure the legacy of the Union continues to inspire future generations.
Sheikh Salem said the inclusion reflects the exceptional national importance of a site closely linked to one of the defining moments in the UAE’s history. He stressed that preserving historic buildings is essential to strengthening national identity and connecting future generations with their heritage.
“The Union House remains an enduring symbol of the unity that laid the foundations of the UAE and shaped its development and prosperity,” Sheikh Salem said. “By including it in the National Register of Modern Architectural Heritage, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting sites of exceptional national and cultural value.”
He added that the Register reflects the Ministry of Culture’s ongoing efforts to document the UAE’s modern architectural heritage and raise awareness of buildings connected to key milestones in the nation’s development.
Originally built in 1965 as the Guest Palace, Union House was commissioned by the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. It hosted the meetings that led to the establishment of the UAE and was the venue where the UAE Constitution was signed and the Union declared on December 2, 1971. During the 1960s and 1970s, it also welcomed Gulf leaders and international dignitaries for official meetings.
Architecturally, the building reflects the simplicity and authenticity of local design from the mid-20th century. Its distinctive structure features two interconnected buildings supported by cylindrical concrete columns, complemented by glass and aluminium façades that represented modern construction techniques of the period.
Today, Union House forms part of the Union Museum, continuing to preserve and showcase the story of the UAE’s founding and the enduring values of the Union.
The National Register of Modern Architectural Heritage was launched alongside the inaugural meeting of the National Identity Committee under the UAE National Identity Strategy and the National Policy for Preserving Modern Architectural Heritage. Its first phase includes 10 landmark buildings recognised for their contribution to the evolution of modern architecture in the UAE.
Alongside Union House, the inaugural list features Rashid Tower and Deira Clock Tower in Dubai, the National Consultative Council building at Qasr Al Hosn, the Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi, the Islamic Institute at United Arab Emirates University in Al Ain, Khalid Bin Mohammed School, Al Qasimia School, the Special Education Support Centre in Sharjah, and Saqr Hospital in Ras Al Khaimah.
