The World Edition - Architecture & Design - Dubai Reaching New Heights

Dubai Reaching New Heights

By Alexander H. Johnstone
SEPTEMBER 4, 2007

In the last decade, Dubai, United Arab Emirates has emerged as one of the most captivating cities in the world. The city increasingly exists as one of the global leaders in hospitality and tourism. With its larger than life appeal, Dubai resembles somewhat of a combination of Las Vegas and Disney World, but neither of these places is home to an indoor ski resort.

Today, Dubai appears quite similar to New York City in 1930 as competition has sparked within the city to claim the world's tallest building. Just recently, on July 21st. Burj Dubai, also known as the Dubai Tower, became the world's tallest at 1,680 feet. Being developed by Emaar Properties, the property is still under construction. However, there is a high probability that a new skyscraper in the planning process will surpass the height of Burj Dubai.

The new structure currently in planning is Al Burj, which translates to The Tall Tower. Al Burj will boast 228 floors and a total built area of 16 million square feet, approximately 5 million of which will be habitable. Al Burj will be a mixed use structure and will house offices, apartments and hotels. A large spire will top the structure, standing nearly 700 feet tall. The structure is estimated to stand approximately 3,445 feet tall, which is more than twice the height of Burj Dubai. Original designs were done by Pei Partnership Architects, but Australian Woods Bagot has replaced them as the project’s primary architect. The property is being developed by Al Nakheel, a prominent Dubai company known for its innovative Dubai waterfront developments. The CEO of Al Nakheel, Chris O'Donnell, has explained that further details on the planning of Al Burj will be revealed in early 2008.

The title of world’s tallest building will always be fascinating to people from all over the planet. As technologies expand and funds are available, the competition for height will continue. Dubai has already made its mark in this historic era of skyscraper architecture. The city will most certainly continue to intrigue the world for generations to come.