The Founder’s Memorial, Abu Dhabi
Located in Al Ras Al Akhdar along the Abu Dhabi Corniche, The Founder’s Memorial is a permanent national tribute to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE. The 3.3-hectare site combines art, nature, multimedia experiences and cultural interpretation to explore his life, legacy and values.
The centrepiece of the memorial is The Constellation, a monumental three-dimensional portrait of Sheikh Zayed created by international artist Ralph Helmick. The artwork is made from suspended geometric forms and appears differently depending on the visitor’s viewpoint, while its illuminated forms create a distinctive experience after dark.
Visitors can begin at the Welcome Centre, where multimedia presentations, archival footage, personal stories and the Sheikh Zayed Encounters provide insight into his life and leadership. The encounters are screened regularly and allow visitors to hear Sheikh Zayed through recordings of his own words.
The site also includes the Sanctuary Garden, Heritage Garden and an elevated walkway surrounding The Constellation. Complimentary cultural tours in Arabic and English are available with Emirati cultural tour guides, providing additional context about Sheikh Zayed and the memorial.
Amenities
Monumental Artwork · Welcome Centre · Multimedia Presentations · Free Guided Cultural Tours · Sanctuary Garden · Heritage Garden · Elevated Walkway · Free Admission · Wheelchair Accessibility · Parking
Contact Information
