Hussein Al-Mousawi Chronicles Abu Dhabi's Early Architectural Heritage

Emirati photographer Hussein Al-Mousawi sheds light on an overlooked aspect of Abu Dhabi's architectural history through a visual project documenting buildings from the early decades of the Union.

A Quest for Architectural Identity

Al-Mousawi's passion for architectural photography began after moving to Abu Dhabi in 2013, viewing the city with fresh eyes different from his childhood visits. His studies abroad deepened his interest in urban identities, making the UAE capital a launching pad for understanding these unique architectural facets.

The project, titled "Seeking Between Facades," focuses on the diversity of buildings constructed during the 1970s and 1980s. These structures include not only residential buildings but also government institutions, palaces, markets, and structural elements like water tanks.

Al-Mousawi explained that these buildings reflect the ambition of a young nation seeking a delicate balance between modernity and local identity. His choice of lesser-known buildings aims to highlight architectural details worthy of attention, even if they are not famous icons.

Documentation Methodology and Visual Memory

Al-Mousawi follows a precise methodology in documenting architectural heritage, starting with studying the building's urban context and ending with capturing fine details like windows and doors. Timing is crucial, as he selects short windows of no more than ten minutes to ensure optimal lighting quality.

The photographer emphasizes that methodical photography plays a vital role in preserving architectural memory and passing it to future generations. The difference between spontaneous photos and serious research projects lies in the historical value these documents provide to the rapidly changing city.

Zayed's Architectural Legacy

Abu Dhabi's distinctive architectural character owes its "organic unity" to the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. A decree issued in 1984 mandated that buildings reflect Arab and Islamic character, while allowing the introduction of modern elements without erasing local identity.

This balance created a rich architectural landscape where each building harmonizes with its urban surroundings. Al-Mousawi sees contemporary architecture as adding a new dimension, contributing to an ongoing dialogue between past and present in the city's fabric.

This project serves as an important visual record of a generation of architecture expressing the city's identity in its formative stages. Al-Mousawi's effort ensures these architectural features remain alive in the collective memory despite continuous urban acceleration.