Union House listed as first site on National Register of Modern Architectural Heritage

The Union House has been listed as the first site on the National Register of Modern Architectural Heritage, the Ministry of Culture announced on Thursday.

A commemorative plaque to mark the milestone was unveiled during the visit by Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, and Minister of Culture, Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi.

Launched by the Ministry of Culture, the Register documents and preserves landmarks that embody the country's historical, cultural and architectural heritage, to strengthen the UAE's cultural identity.

Sheikha Latifa affirmed that the Union House occupies a unique place in the UAE's collective memory as the birthplace of the Union and the landmark where the Founding Fathers came together to realise their shared vision for the nation.

She noted that the building reflects a legacy of unity, ambition and a steadfast belief in people as the foundation of progress.

"The Union House remains an enduring symbol of the unity that laid the foundations of the UAE and shaped its development and prosperity," added Sheikh Salem.

Constructed in 1965 and originally known as the Guest Palace, the Union House is among the UAE's most significant historic landmarks. Commissioned by the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, it hosted official meetings that contributed to the formation of the Union and, on December 2, 1971, the signing of the UAE Constitution and the declaration of the Union.

During the 1960s and 1970s, it also welcomed Gulf leaders and dignitaries for official meetings and visits.

Architecturally, the building is distinguished by a design that combines simplicity with authenticity, reflecting the characteristics of local architecture during the early decades of the second half of the twentieth century. It comprises two interlocking structures supported by cylindrical concrete columns, with glass and aluminium façades and modern construction materials.

Today, the Union House forms part of the Union Museum, where it continues to preserve and present the story of the UAE's founding and the enduring values of the Union.

In its first phase, the National Register will include 10 buildings

• Union House in Dubai
• Rashid Tower, inaugurated in 1979
• Deira Clock Tower, one of Dubai’s oldest urban landmarks
• National Consultative Council building at Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi, associated with institutional development since 1968
• Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi, established in 1981
• Islamic Institute at the United Arab Emirates University in Al Ain, reflecting developments since 1976
• Khalid Bin Mohammed School, Al Qasimia School
• Special Education Support Centre in Sharjah
• Saqr Hospital in Ras Al Khaimah, which has held a significant place in the country's collective memory since 1981