At the age of 91, I.M. Pei designed the Museum of Islamic Art – a fusion of modernism and traditional Islamic patterns, set on its own island. Nearby, Jean Nouvel’s National Museum of Qatar captivates onlookers with its desert rose-inspired structure, reflecting the country’s natural beauty.

The Qatar National Library also impresses visitors with its diamond-shaped exterior by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas. Not only is it home to over a million books, it houses the Heritage Library with books dating back to the 7th century.

Dubai is renowned for its jaw-dropping architecture and continually pushes the boundaries of record-breaking innovation with iconic landmarks. The Museum of the Future dazzles with its façade, etched with local poetry by Sheikh Mohamed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The Dubai Frame, designed by Fernando Donis, offers a unique perspective on the city's past and present. And towering above all, the Burj Khalifa, designed by Adrian Smith, stands as the tallest building on Earth at 830 metres high.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, designed by Yusef Abdelki, stands as one of the world’s largest mosques, adorned with 82 white marble domes, the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, and numerous gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers. Jean Nouvel’s Louvre Abu Dhabi is another architectural marvel, featuring a star-latticed dome that casts a mesmerising rain of light across the gallery grounds.

Adding to Abu Dhabi’s skyline is the striking Capital Gate building, designed by RMJM, which holds the record as the world’s furthest leaning manmade tower.

Muscat boasts architectural wonders deeply influenced by Oman’s rich culture and stunning landscapes. The Chedi Muscat, designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, features a 12-metre-high tented lobby that evokes the essence of a Bedouin tent. The Royal Opera House, a beacon of Omani elegance, stands in harmony with the majestic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, renowned for its intricate Islamic artistry. Adding a modern touch to Muscat’s cultural tapestry is the Oman Across Ages Museum, which mirrors the Al Hajar Mountains with its symbolic contemporary geometry.

Bahrain is a city of modern creativity, showcased through its innovative architectural designs. The Bahrain World Trade Centre in Manama, designed by Atkins, soars 240 metres high and uniquely integrates three wind turbines, symbolising Bahrain’s commitment to renewable energy. The Bahrain National Museum, crafted by Danish architects Krohn and Hartvig Rasmussen, appears to float on water creating a serene and captivating effect. Complementing this, the adjacent Bahrain National Theatre features sea-inspired curves, echoing the island’s rich maritime history.