Apple Al Maryah Island: A Jewel in Abu Dhabi’s Skyline

Apple Al Maryah Island, designed by Foster + Partners and completed in 2022, stands as a symbol of architectural excellence in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Situated in the prestigious financial district, the store occupies a prime location on the island’s waterfront, adjacent to The Galleria Al Maryah Island Mall. This architectural marvel not only enhances the skyline but also serves as a dynamic hub for visitors and locals alike.

Integration with the Waterfront Landscape

Elevated above the bustling promenade, Apple Al Maryah Island features a sleek, rectilinear design that complements the surrounding urban environment. The store is nestled atop a cascading black water feature, creating a striking visual contrast against the shimmering skyline. External entrance ramps cut through the water, establishing a seamless connection between the promenade, store, and mall, while Absolute Black granite stone paves the way inside, seamlessly extending the waterfront experience into the store.

Experiential Design and Connectivity

The design of Apple Al Maryah Island prioritizes the visitor experience, offering a sensory journey from the moment of entry. Mirrored stainless-steel portals welcome visitors, enveloping them in the sights and sounds of cascading water jets. Inside, a 72-foot-long jointless mirror foil ceiling adds drama, creating a kaleidoscopic effect that blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior. The light-filled interior offers panoramic views of the coastline and cityscape, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of Abu Dhabi.

Spaciousness and Sustainability

Internally, the store boasts a generous floor-to-ceiling height of 19 feet, enhancing the sense of spaciousness and openness. Timber-paneled avenues, flanked by Ficus trees, create a serene environment conducive to exploration and discovery. The project incorporates innovative sustainable features, including a radiant floor system combined with displacement ventilation, ensuring efficient cooling while minimizing environmental impact.

Seamless Integration of Design Elements

Foster + Partners’ meticulous attention to detail is evident in the seamless integration of architectural elements and interior design features. Display tables nestled amongst foliage add a touch of greenery, while theatrical lighting creates dappled shadows, enhancing the ambiance of the space. The timber paneling extends from the avenues down the staircases, creating a unified language across multiple levels of the store.

Future Creative Hub

As one of the newest additions to the fleet of Apple stores in the Emirates, Apple Al Maryah Island is poised to become a vibrant creative hub and coveted destination for the region. With its innovative design, experiential approach, and commitment to sustainability, the store sets a new standard for retail excellence, reaffirming Apple’s position as a leader in both technology and design.