Designed by the late architect, the new Youth Orchestra Abu Dhabi venue will feature a 600-seat auditorium, 18 rehearsal rooms and free music education programmes for young children.
Abu Dhabi is set to add a new cultural landmark to its waterfront, with a concert hall designed by Frank Gehry scheduled to open in January 2027. Located in the Mina Zayed district, the building will serve as the home of Youth Orchestra Abu Dhabi, supporting a new generation of musicians through performances, rehearsals and music education.
The two-storey building takes a notably restrained approach to Gehry’s architecture. Rather than the sculptural, fragmented forms associated with projects such as the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, the design is defined by a long, straight roofline and tall glass façades divided by white panels. Inside, warm timber finishes create a softer atmosphere, while rooftop terraces provide additional spaces for visitors.
The venue will include a 600-seat auditorium and 18 rehearsal rooms, accommodating both performances and music-making behind the scenes. Its educational programme will offer free music education to children aged six to nine, making access to musical training a central part of the project.
The concert hall is among the projects Gehry designed before his death in 2025. Its relatively understated appearance offers a different perspective on an architect widely known for expressive, sculptural buildings, while maintaining a focus on how architecture can shape cultural experiences.
With its combination of performance space, rehearsal facilities and educational programmes, Youth Orchestra Abu Dhabi is intended to serve not only as a concert venue but also as a place where young musicians can develop their skills and build a lasting relationship with music.
Opening expected: January 2027
Location: Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi