Sheikh Khalifa Medical City

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Visualization © L'Autre Image, courtesy of SOM

Visualization © SOM

Visualization © L'Autre Image, courtesy of SOM

Visualization © SOM

Visualization © L'Autre Image, courtesy of SOM

Architects: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill

Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Year: 2016

Sheikh Khalifa Medical City is a 3-million-square-foot medical complex in the heart of Abu Dhabi. Conceived of as three hospitals under one roof, the 850-bed complex combines a general hospital, women’s hospital, and pediatric hospital. Envisioned as a "city within a city," the design defies the typical model of a medical center and creates a bustling campus-like environment of distinct character and vibrant public spaces engaged with its community. Informed by historical regional precedents, the design seeks to strike a balance as a state-of-the-art vision rooted in local heritage. The design responds to, and is respectful of, the unique culture of the UAE and its demanding desert climate.