The UAE’s constantly evolving landscape has consistently showcased its relentless drive towards innovation, sustainability, and excellence.
Known for transforming desert sands into architectural marvels, the UAE continues to present larger-than-life developments that have captured the world’s attention.
This article delves into the most ambitious and ground-breaking ventures currently underway in the UAE.
Burj Binghatti
Burj Binghatti aims to surpass the 393-meter-tall Princess Tower in Dubai and is slated to rise as the world’s tallest residential tower. This UAE megaproject stems from the close collaboration between the property developer, Binghatti, and the luxury jewelry experts Jacob & Co.
The final elevation for the Business Bay skyscraper remains under wraps. However, the architectural blueprint for the mammoth complex was unveiled at the Coca-Cola Arena on November 16, 2022.
Currently, Burj Binghatti is envisioned to soar beyond 100 stories. Moreover, this architectural marvel plans to offer 2- and 3-bedroom residences, thoughtfully priced at AED8 mn and AED10 mn, respectively.
Furthermore, this “hyper-tower” plans to host an array of elite amenities. From exclusive penthouses and a private member’s club to a breathtaking infinity pool with unrivaled views of Dubai’s vast skyline, the skyscraper does not hold back.
Muhammed Binghatti, the Chief Executive Officer of Binghatti, described the tower as the epitome of architectural luxury. As such, Burj Binghatti is ready to create a ripple in the annals of architectural wonders, fittingly situated in the globally renowned city of Dubai.
Read: UAE’s GDP projections: 3.5 percent growth in 2023
Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi
Scheduled for completion by the end of 2025, this museum is one of the many UAE megaprojects under construction.
The architectural firm Mecanoo is designing the museum structure. It occupies an expansive area exceeding 35,000 square meters and aims to mirror the aesthetics of natural rock formations.
Additionally, the development of the museum aligns seamlessly with Saadiyat Vision 2025. This significant initiative strives to grow domestic, regional, and global visitor numbers, providing an invigorating boost to Abu Dhabi’s flourishing tourism sector.
This upcoming museum, located in the Saadiyat Cultural District, is gearing up to house some of the rarest natural history specimens on Earth. For instance, it will house the skeletal remains of ‘Stan, the Tyrannosaurus rex, and the Murchison Meteorite.
In addition, it is designed to serve as both a scientific research and teaching institution that inspires visitors to gain a deeper understanding of our planet. Particularly, it plans to promote comprehensive research across various disciplines, such as zoology, paleontology, geology, and marine biology, to name a few.
Jubail Islands
Located between Saadiyat Island and Yas Island, the AED12 bn Jubail Island stands as another highly anticipated UAE megaproject.
This ambitious development stretches across a vast expanse of 4,500 hectares and houses a magnificent mangrove park within its premises. The Jubail Island Investment Company oversees the project, intending to provide accommodations for over 5,000 residents.
The island’s blueprints also reveal future plans. These include a variety of fine-dining restaurants, a beach club, sports amenities, nurseries, schools, clinics, community centers, and advanced business centers.
Furthermore, the project will feature spacious outdoor areas. These include parks, walking tracks, kayaking stations, and cycling paths. This focus on outdoor amenities creates a haven for nature enthusiasts and water sports lovers alike.
Taking a significant step forward, the Arabian Construction Company will complete the construction of the first 300 villas by the fourth quarter of 2023.
Sharjah Floating Theater
Another UAE megaproject promising to transform the emirates’ architectural landscape is the Sharjah Floating Theater. This innovative initiative aims to reshape the east coast of Sharjah, specifically the Kalba area.
Monitored and reviewed personally by Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the plans for the floating theater align with his vision for the region. Drawing inspiration from him, the theater’s design takes the form of a sea shell, inducing awe in all who lay eyes on it.
Nestled amidst water basins, the theater promises to be a majestic sight. But this architectural masterpiece is not just about aesthetics. It demonstrates functionality too, with seating for a thousand people and unique viewpoints enabling visitors to appreciate the city’s attractions.
As a symbol of Sharjah’s vibrant cultural scene, the theater is expected to become a landmark attraction. However, the anticipation adds to the allure, as the opening date remains veiled in mystery.
World’s first 3D-printed mosque
Dubai, celebrated for its groundbreaking architecture, presents another world first: a wholly functional, 3D-printed mosque. This Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities (IACAD)-announced project adds further distinction to the city’s accomplishments.
The 2000-square-meter mosque, situated in Bur Dubai, will accommodate 600 worshippers. Moreover, slated for a grand opening in 2025, construction will start in October.
Advanced 3D printing technology will allow the mosque to be completed within four months. However, factoring in facility integration, the entire construction spans approximately 16 months.
A 3D robotic printer will play the lead role in this construction, steered by a team of three workers. The printer will output two square meters per hour, combining raw materials and an exclusive concrete mix—a concept detailed by IACAD’s director, Ali Al Suwaidi.
Though costs are 30 percent higher compared to traditional methods, the novelty justifies the expense.
Presently, IACAD and the Dubai Municipality are securing the final approvals for the design. This UAE megaproject reinforces Dubai’s agenda to capitalize on technology for public welfare, manifesting its vision to emerge as a global industry beacon by 2030.
Dubai Urban Tech District
The Dubai Urban Tech District, planned for the emirate’s Creekside of Al Jaddaf, covers 140,000 square meters of land. This development aims to host “venture capitals to provide the fuel for entrepreneurs,” fostering a collaborative urban tech ecosystem. Further, the project will reportedly create 4,000 jobs.
According to URB CEO Baharash Bagherian, “Dubai is best positioned to lead the Urban Tech Transformation.” Subsequently, the establishment of the Urban Tech District will secure the city’s position as a global tech hub for innovation.
By covering a total of 140,000 square meters, this district will be the world’s largest urban tech district, solidifying Dubai’s status as an urban innovation center.
In addition to dedicated office spaces, the zero-carbon Urban Tech District will feature facilities for conferences, training, research, and seminars. Moreover, it will provide various amenities along with opportunities for business incubation.
Dubai Creek Tower
Situated in Dubai Creek Harbor, near Ras Al Khor National Wildlife Sanctuary, Dubai Creek Tower originally envisioned to be a new landmark with its 360-degree viewing deck inspired by the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, a viewing deck with a café, as well as a central plaza featuring shops, a museum, and an indoor auditorium.
The planned 1,300-meter tower would have been taller than the Burj Khalifa. But a new announcement from Emaar confirmed there will be a redesign for the new tower and that construction will begin a year from now.
Looking ahead
These megaprojects are transforming the UAE into a global leader in innovative urban development. They serve as fascinating reminders of the UAE’s limitless ambition and relentless pursuit of the future.
Without a doubt, they provide an exciting glimpse of what is yet to come for the UAE’s future landscape.
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