UAE is one of the most technologically advanced regions in the world; hence it is no surprise that the region’s infrastructure develops at a lightning speed. Here’s a list of 15 upcoming architectural marvels in the UAE:
UAE is one of the most technologically advanced regions in the world; hence it is no surprise that the region’s infrastructure develops at a lightning speed. Another factor that seems to drive its speedy development currently is the EXPO 2020, which was going to be held in October 2020 but has been postponed to October 2021 due to the CoVID-19 pandemic.
The region already hosts architectural marvels that have taken the world by storm, like Burj Khalifa in Dubai and Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi, and still have no plans to settle down.
Here’s a list of 15 upcoming architectural marvels in the UAE:
1. AIN DUBAI
The world’s to-be tallest observation wheel, Ain Dubai, stands at a height of more than 250 meters. The wheel overlooks the mesmerizing skyline of Dubai.
Over 5,000 tons of temporary steel spokes and rim braces held rim segments in place during construction.
Gradually, the weight of the wheel rim has been completely transferred to 192 permanent spoke cables, which secure the structural integrity of the wheel. The wheel can, approximately, accommodate 1400 observers at a time!
2. BURJ JUMEIRAH
The next iconic structure to add to the awe-factor of Dubai’s skyline is Burj Jumeirah.
It is a 550-meter-tall tower that will rise from one end of a lake in the shape of the ruler’s fingerprint. While being surrounded by shops, it will also provide a 360-degree view of Dubai’s skyline.
The tower has basically two connected curved volumes inspired by UAE’s desert topography. Notable distinguished features of the structure are—digitally lined exterior and interior facades and observation decks located at tall heights with one having a sky restaurant and lounge capable of hosting decent-scaled events.
3. DISTRICT 2020
District 2020 is the official site of the Expo 2020 that Dubai will be hosting in October 2021.
Located in the heart of Dubai South, District 2020 forms a key part of Expo 2020 Dubai’s legacy strategy to reuse 80% of its site infrastructure. It will become the post-exhibition home of the Santiago Calatrava-designed UAE Pavilion, and Expo 2020’s centerpiece, Al Wasl Plaza.
4. DUBAI CREEK TOWER
The UAE fights and it fights hard!
Currently, home to the tallest building in the world – Burj Khalifa, Dubai – Dubai’s Creek Tower will exceed the height of its ancestor by a good margin to become the world’s next tallest building.
Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the structure will be the centerpiece of Dubai Creek Harbour Development. The form is said to be inspired by a water lily!
5. GUGGENHEIM ABU DHABI
The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is designed by none other than architect Frank Gehry. The museum is located on Saadiyat Island adjacent to Abu Dhabi. Surrounded by water on three sides, Gehry states this phenomenon gave the design process some direction.
The museum takes some inspiration from the vernacular buildings of the UAE in adopting closed courtyards and wind towers in the design. The exhibition spaces will be dynamic in terms of volume and space planning – while some are connected through catwalks across the open courtyard, others are stacked one upon the other.
6. ZAYED NATIONAL MUSEUM
This museum is dedicated to the founder of the UAE – Sheikh Zayed Al-Nayhan. Located on the Saadiyat Cultural Island in Abu-Dhabi, the structure aims at inculcating both – contemporary forms and elements of the Arabic culture.
The exterior facade comprises five light-weight steel structures in aerodynamic shapes that act as solar thermal towers.
In contrast to this, the interior is quite humbling, literally!
The pod-shaped galleries are suspended over an underground lobby. Furthermore, each opening has been carefully designed to allow light and shadow play.
7. MOHAMMED BIN RASHID LIBRARY
Although simple and straightforward in design as compared to the other structures on this list, this library is proof that even technologically forward countries cannot escape the magnetism of handheld books.
Designed in the shape of a book placed on a lectern, this 7-storeyed library will host a conference center, exhibition spaces, a children’s library, a bookshop, reading halls, a business library, and training halls.
8. MUSEUM OF THE FUTURE
The Museum of the Future is a technologically and visually bold design. The building seems to be a metallic egg and has a façade made using 3D printing. The writings on the façade happen to be poems written by the current ruler- HH Sheikh Mohammed Rashid.
The void in the structure represents all that we do not know, further advocating for the name of the museum.
9. THE ROYAL ATLANTIS RESORT & RESIDENCES
The Palm Jumeirah in Dubai is to host another Atlantis hotel.
Like its preceding structure, this structure will also mark its place in Dubai’s skyline. The 43-storied luxury hotel has a sleek contemporary exterior and the ground floor sports a water feature comprising water and fire elements designed by the renowned WET designs from California.
10. AL WASL PLAZA
The Al Wasl Plaza is the central pavilion at the site of Expo 2020.
The dome-like structure is 150 meters in diameter and 65 meters in height. Its shell will act as a translucent barrier facilitating viewing on both – inside and outside the pavilion. The designers have also employed techniques to achieve thermal comfort.
11. ME BY MELIA
The ME by Melia is the only hotel in the world whose interior and exterior both are designed by late architect Zaha Hadid. Located in Dubai’s Burj Khalifa district, the 19-story hotel will feature the flowing lines and curves that are a hallmark of the Iraqi architect’s work.
12. ADDRESS SKY VIEW
Designed by the same architects responsible for Burj Khalifa, the Address Sky View is a luxury two-towered hotel connected by a three-storeyed sky bridge. Its minimalistic design does not take away from the luxury and amenities it offers.
13. JEWEL OF THE CREEK
Jewel of the Creek is a 1 million sqm mixed-use development occupying a strategic location at the north shore of Dubai Creek. The project will transform this location into a vibrant urban center and the prominent landmark in the heart of Dubai.
Jewel of the Creek has a vast range of features: inner creek with promenade; longest swimming pool in Dubai and many others.
14. PALM TOWER
The Palm Tower is an awe-inspiring landmark rising to a height of 240 meters from the heart of the world-famous Palm Jumeirah.
The tower will be connected to the Nakheel mall in Palm Jumeirah. The building sports luxury residences, hotels, a rooftop infinity pool, and restaurants under the viewing deck.
15. AL QANA NATIONAL AQUARIUM
Located near the Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi the Al Qana will be the largest aquarium in the Middle-East. The aquarium is the centerpiece of the upcoming Al Qana Complex which is the first of its kind Built-Operate-Transfer model project.
