Wahat Al Karama

About Wahat Al Karama

In line with the H.H. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, recognition of the UAE's heroes' sacrifices in the service of their country, and his directives to commemorate them, and the directives of H.H. Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, Wahat Al Karama, was officially inaugurated on 30th Nov 2016, to become a timeless tribute to commemorate and honor the UAE's heroes.

The Martyrs' Families' Affairs Office (MFAO) at the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Court manages and supervises Wahat Al Karama, overseeing its plans and programs in coordination with stakeholders. Wahat Al Karama is the perfect destination for those seeking to learn more about the UAE's heroes by walking around and exploring the stories behind their heroic sacrifices.

Name

The name, “Wahat Al Karama”, was approved by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. It symbolizes a bridge between the past and the present. The word “Wahat” (i.e. oasis) is inspired by Emirati landscape, which features green oases with streams running through them. Put together with the word “Karama” (i.e. dignity), the name symbolizes the heroes’ endless dignity.

Location

The location was officially announced in 2015 as a vital site opposite Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the East, and near the UAE Armed Forces General Headquarters and the Ministry of Defense to the West.

Design

A competition was announced for the design that best reflects the vision of H.H. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed. Many prominent designers from various artistic and architectural schools participated in the competition. Idris Khan was selected as the winner for his memorial design that best embodied the bonds of solidarity and unity. In March of the same year, construction of Wahat Al Karama began, and ended within a short period of time.

Construction Phases

Wahat Al Karama is a 46,000 square meter site. It includes various internal and external areas across the site. Its monuments include the Visitor Center, The Pavilion of Honor, The Memorial, The Memorial Plaza and other facilities.