Opened in 2018 to mark the 100th anniversary of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s birth, the Founder's Memorial (thefoundersmemorial.ae; entry free) is a stunning, larger-than-life public art installation along the Corniche dedicated to the celebration of the life, achievements and values of the UAE's founding father.
At its heart is the Constellation, a 30m-high pavilion containing a three-dimensional portrait of Sheikh Zayed. Designed by artist Ralph Helmick, the work is made of 1327 hand-welded geometrical stars suspended on 1110 cables. Depicting the late ruler’s values and teachings as the country's guiding light, the prismatic installation sparkles at night, taking on an ethereal appearance. The portrait is most clearly visible from specific viewing points and is illuminated after dark.
The surrounding gardens are beautiful – a nod to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s love for green spaces – and include indigenous trees, medicinal plants and a falaj (traditional irrigation channel), as well as seating and an elevated walkway. The visitor center screens a short introductory film documenting the creation of the artwork. There are also free 30-minute guided tours by knowledgeable Emirati cultural guides to provide deeper context to Sheikh Zayed’s legacy. You can either book these online or at the desk on arrival.
