Wahat Al Karama
The Memorial
About Wahat Al Karama
Based on the keenness of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, "may God protect him", and based on his inimitable vision, to commemorate the memory of the nation's righteous martyrs who sacrificed their pure lives in fulfillment of national duty, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, ordered to establish Wahat Al Karama, which was officially inaugurated on November 30, 2016, as a monument that embodies the highest meanings of pride of the honorable championships of the nation’s martyrs, and gratitude for their sacrifices in order to maintain the security and dignity of the homeland, and in order to protect its gains and achievements.
The design
The competition for the best design simulating the vision of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan - may God protect him - was announced, and one of the most prominent designers of the world, with artistic and architectural backgrounds, participated in the competition at that time.
Location
The location was officially announced in 2015, as Wahat Al Karama is located in a vital area opposite Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque on the east side, and on the other side it is bordered by the Ministry of Defence.
Label
The name “Oasis of Dignity” was adopted by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, in an effort to link the present with the past, in reference to the close connection with the past that is characterized by authenticity.
The Pavilion of Honor
The journey ends at The Pavilion of Honor, the last station in Wahat Al Karama. On the right, Surat Al Fatiha is engraved, whereas the ceiling is covered in eight panels, seven of which represent the seven emirates. The eighth panel represents the UAE’s heroes. Verses of Surat Al Imran are engraved on the upper panels.
The Memorial Plaza
The Memorial Plaza is the second station in Wahat Al Karama and occupies the largest space in it (4000 square meters). It is surrounded by amphitheater- style seating with the capacity to hold up to 1,200 people. The amphitheater and plaza are paved using elegant travertine stones.
The Memorial
The Memorial is the centerpiece of Wahat Al Karama, and its third external station. It was designed by British artist Idris Khan. The symbolism behind it is clear - its 31 aluminum-clad panels lean against each other, portraying the unity, solidarity and synergy between the UAE's leadership and its citizens.
Visitor Center
The first stop in Wahat Al Karama, the Visitor Center, offers a unique, interactive experience providing an opportunity to learn more about the nation's heroes, the memorial, as well as the UAE's diplomatic and humanitarian efforts.
