UAE Megaprojects: 34 Upcoming Developments Set To Transform the Nation
The UAE is currently undergoing a massive transformation as a series of groundbreaking megaprojects are set to reshape the nation’s landscape.
With a clear vision set for the next decade and beyond, the UAE is paving the way for a future characterised by innovation and progress.
From iconic structures to advanced urban planning, these upcoming developments are poised to redefine the UAE’s economic, social, and cultural fabric – as it reaches its goal of becoming one of the world’s top three best cities to live and work in.
That said, here is a look at some of UAE’s upcoming megaprojects aimed at transforming the nation over the next 10 years:
1. Dubai Creek Tower
In August 2023, Emaar founder Mohamed Alabbar revealed that the Dubai Creek Tower project is “currently in the process of being redesigned,” according to a statement by Emirates News Agency (WAM).
Alabbar revealed that the Dubai Creek Tower’s construction is expected to begin within the next year.
Emaar Properties and an international firm will collaborate to develop a fresh concept for the project over the next 7 to 8 months.
However, it is “unlikely” to be the tallest structure in Dubai, the founder told Arabian Business in an exclusive interview.
“A lot of work is still going on the redesign, I’m not sure it will be the tallest tower in Dubai. We have to always look at our bottom line and deliver value to our customers and our shareholders,” Alabbar said at the time.
The initial design of the tower, which was intended to be 100 metres taller than the Burj Khalifa and serve as the focal point of the Dubai Creek Harbour development, included cable ties. However, construction was halted after the foundation was laid in 2017 due to the impact of the pandemic.
“There is not a set timescale for this. I have to be happy with the redesigns,” Alabbar told Arabian Business.
2. Etihad Rail passenger train
In 2022, Etihad Rail unveiled a prototype of a passenger train during the UAE’s 51st National Day celebrations on December 2. The train is part of Etihad Rail’s plans to transport heavy goods initially and later accommodate millions of passengers by 2030, resulting in reduced travel time between cities.
With a maximum speed of 200 kilometres per hour, the Etihad Rail has the potential to cut travel time between emirates in half. By 2030, it is estimated that “the number of passengers is expected to reach more than 36.5 million annually,” Etihad Rail said in a statement in December 2021.
The passenger service, which is expected to begin operations by 2030, will have stations spanning from Sila near the Saudi border to Fujairah on the East Coast. Commuters will be able to “to travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai in 50 minutes, and from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah in 100 minutes,” as per the statement.
Etihad Rail is collaborating with the Federal Transport Authority and other transportation authorities across the UAE to enhance passenger connections and further develop the existing network.
3. Burj Binghatti
Binghatti, a property developer, has partnered with luxury jewellery company Jacob & Co to construct what they claim will be the tallest residential building in the world.
While the final height of the skyscraper in Business Bay has not been disclosed, the current record is held by New York’s Central Park Tower at 472.4 metres.
The Princess Tower, standing at 393 metres, is currently the tallest residential tower in Dubai.
The new residential complex, spanning over 100 floors, will offer two and three-bedroom residences in the Business Bay area.
The development, known as Burj Binghatti Jacob & Co Residences, will feature extravagant amenities such as an infinity pool with panoramic views of the Dubai skyline, as well as an in-house concierge service offering private chefs, bodyguards, and chauffeurs.
The design of the tower was created in collaboration with watch manufacturer Jacob & Co, and it will also include a private member’s club and high-end penthouses.
4. Eywa Dubai
R.evolution has announced its latest real estate project in Dubai called Eywa, which draws inspiration from the banyan tree.
This luxury residential development aims to redefine urban living in Dubai and will be the first project of its kind in the UAE for R.evolution, a prominent European real estate developer. Eywa will consist of 48 waterfront residences ranging from two to five bedrooms, with sizes ranging from 3,064 to 16,256 square feet.
The location of the development along the Dubai Water Canal offers views of the water, Downtown Dubai, and the iconic Burj Khalifa.
The architectural design of Eywa is also inspired by the Southern Sky Column, a quartz sandstone mountain in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China.
The unique design elements include circular open columns, intertwined branches, and interlacing roots. R.evolution aims to create a sense of “wild luxury” that allows residents to connect with their surroundings on a deeper level.
Eywa will offer a range of state-of-the-art facilities and amenities, including shared and private spaces, such as a chef’s table, library, private waterfalls, and hammocks.
The development will feature high-quality finishes, well-planned spaces, spacious bathrooms, and kitchens equipped with premium appliances to provide residents with a luxurious living experience.
The design and architecture of Eywa are being handled by Open AD and Brewer Smith Brewer Group (BSBG). Christie’s International Real Estate Dubai is the exclusive real estate broker for the project.
5. The Island
The Island in Dubai, UAE, is an ongoing construction project in the hospitality and leisure sectors.
It is being developed by Wasl Hospitality & Leisure and will introduce renowned Las Vegas hotel brands MGM, Bellagio, and Aria to the Middle East.
The project, designed by UNStudio, is located on a man-made island spanning 26 acres and will feature over 1,400 hotel rooms, suites, and apartments, along with various amenities such as retail outlets, dining options, and entertainment venues.
BSBG is involved as the lead consultant, executive architect, and structural engineer for the project.
The Island aims to enhance Dubai’s appeal as a global holiday destination and includes components like resort hotels, a beach club, a multi-purpose entertainment venue, F&B experiences, retail spaces, a lagoon, children’s entertainment, and The Sphere.
6. Wasl Tower
The Dubai Wasl Tower, scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2024, is a unique and unconventional building that stands at a height of 302 metres.
Once finished, the tower will boast a ceramic façade designed to create the impression of dynamic movement.
The design of the Wasl Tower revolves around its Z axis, incorporating the concept of “contrapposto” movement, which is commonly seen in classical art. This design element will give the tower the appearance of facing multiple directions simultaneously.
It will comprise a total of 64 floors and offer various amenities, including 229 residential units, 258 hotel rooms, 185,345 square feet of office space, and 11 parking floors.
In October 2022, Arabian Business reported that construction of the tower has progressed significantly, with structural works completed up to the 56th floor and the façade reaching level 13. The tower is being developed by the Wasl Asset Management Group.
7. Baccarat Hotel and Residences
Shamal Holding has revealed plans to introduce the Baccarat Hotel and Residences to Downtown Dubai, with an expected opening in 2026.
The skyscraper, designed by Studio Libeskind and 1508 London, will feature a glass façade, adding to the iconic skyline of the area.
Originally launched in New York in 2015, the Baccarat Hotels and Residences will mark its debut in Dubai. Taking inspiration from crystalline structures, the residences will offer stunning views of renowned landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, Al Fahidi Fort, the Dubai Frame, and the Dubai Creek.
Tower One will house the hotel, which will comprise 144 rooms and suites, while the residences will consist of 49 rooms and also include four dining outlets.
SH Hotels and Resorts will manage the property, and Shamal Holding will collaborate with H&H Development, a Dubai-based developer, real estate investor, and asset manager.
8. Dubai Metro Blue Line masterplan
In November 2023, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid approved the new Dubai Metro Blue Line, a 30km route with 14 stations linking major areas by 2029. The line aims to accommodate the growing population outlined in Dubai’s 2040 urban plan.
Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed launched the project during a ceremony at Dubai Creek Harbour. The Blue Line will link the Red and Green lines, running from Al Rashidiya to Dubai International Airport through districts like Dubai Silicon Oasis and Dubai Festival City. It includes an iconic station designed by SOM at Dubai Creek Harbour.
The line is expected to serve 200,000 passengers daily by 2030, increasing to 320,000 by 2040. It will cost an estimated AED56.5 billion but yield economic and social benefits like reduced traffic and appreciated land values near stations.
The new line is Dubai’s fifth metro project and will expand its railway network to 131km and 78 stations upon completion in 2029. It is a key part of Dubai’s transit and development vision for the future.
9. Hatta redevelopment masterplan
The Hatta Master Development Plan, part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, aims to preserve Hatta’s natural environment, enhance its tourism competitiveness, and foster local entrepreneurship.
It seeks to support domestic projects initiated by Hatta residents, stimulate tourism, and maintain the area’s unique geographical identity.
The plan, first announced in October 2021, outlines the development of Hatta over the next two decades, with a focus on promoting well-being, creating investment opportunities, and transforming it into a year-round tourist destination.
It includes improving public facilities and services, establishing a sustainable transportation system, and providing sustainable hotels to support tourism and sports activities.
Private sector partners play a significant role in the rapid progress of development projects in Hatta, contributing investments and job opportunities.
To oversee the development and governance of Hatta, a Supreme Committee will be formed in partnership with the private sector.
10. Palm Jebel Ali
In May, Dubai revealed plans for a major new project named Palm Jebel Ali, as announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the development will cover an area twice the size of Palm Jumeirah at 13.4sq km. It aims to provide housing and facilities for around 35,000 families.
Palm Jebel Ali will feature an extensive coastline reaching 110km. Over 80 hotels and resorts will be constructed to support Dubai’s ambition to strengthen its tourism industry. Abundant green spaces and waterfront zones are included in the design.
As part of Dubai’s 2040 urban blueprint, the project follows principles like walkable mixed-use neighbourhoods.
Smart technology and sustainability practices will also feature to create an efficient community. Renewable sources will fulfil 30 percent of energy needs once completed.
The development forms part of Sheikh Mohammed’s vision to double Dubai’s economy by 2033.
Palm Jebel Ali is expected to raise living standards while boosting real estate and tourism sectors over the coming years.
11. Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab
Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, a luxurious resort developed by the Jumeirah Group, is set to open in Dubai.
The resort is strategically located, with stunning views of the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. It is part of a larger development project led by Dubai Holding, which aims to establish Dubai as a top global tourist destination.
The resort, inspired by the ocean, is situated on a peninsula and boasts the largest private beach in the emirate.
It complements the wave-shaped Jumeirah Beach Hotel and the sailboat-inspired Burj Al Arab, forming an oceanic trilogy.
The resort offers spacious rooms, personalised services, and exceptional amenities and dining options, ensuring a serene and exclusive retreat for guests seeking relaxation and privacy.
Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab features a variety of luxurious accommodations, including rooms, suites, penthouses, and hotel apartments. The rooms have expansive balconies and terraces that provide panoramic sea views and a 180° view of the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah and the new superyacht marina.
Recently, Arabian Business reported that two luxurious penthouses in the Marsa Al Arab development were sold by Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty for a total value of AED706 million ($192 million).
These penthouses not only rank among the most expensive properties ever sold in Dubai but also stand out as some of the priciest penthouses worldwide.
The resort’s guests can also enjoy multiple pools, spa and wellness facilities, and a selection of more than 10 meticulously designed restaurants and bars, alongside picturesque views.
12. Saadiyat Grove
Abu Dhabi’s prestigious Saadiyat Island will be home to the new Saadiyat Grove project, estimated at a value of $1.5 billion, according to Geoff Ford, Associate Principal at CRTKL, a global architectural, planning, and design agency.
The development aims to serve as a “connective fabric” between the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, and Zayed National Museum.
Upon completion, Saadiyat Grove will encompass 60,000sqm of retail, entertainment, and leisure spaces.
It will feature approximately 3,000 residential units, two hotels, and co-working spaces tailored for startups and new businesses.
The design of Saadiyat Grove draws inspiration from traditional urban design principles, evident in its organised streets and squares arranged in a “city-layering plan” across multiple levels.
The project will incorporate various amenities and offerings. Street-level venues will house food and beverage outlets, while retail spaces will be situated on the street and first levels, providing visitors and residents with views of the museums from different vantage points.
Geoff Ford expressed the collaborative effort between CRTKL and Aldar Properties, stating that Saadiyat Grove sets a new standard for mixed-use design and development. With an emphasis on community and culture, the project embodies a modern lifestyle and represents the future of residential, retail, and entertainment environments.
Ford highlighted the project’s adherence to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, integrating low-carbon solutions and passive strategies to combat the urban heat island effect.
Saadiyat Grove aims to enhance the pedestrian experience year-round and promotes the concept of the “15-minute city,” with various transportation modes such as motorised bikes, segways, shaded walkways, autonomous cars, shuttle buses, and driverless personal rapid transit vehicles.
Saadiyat Grove will also include dedicated spaces for visitors and residents, such as libraries and galleries. Construction is already underway, and the project is expected to open to visitors within the next four to five years.
13. Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi
The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, set to be completed by the end of 2025, will be located in the Saadiyat Cultural District.
With a total area exceeding 35,000 square meters, the museum’s design by Mecanoo is intended “to resonate with natural rock formations.”
It will house rare specimens from the Earth’s natural history and serve as a scientific research and teaching institution.
The museum aims to educate visitors about the planet and take them on a journey through time and space, showcasing the past, present, and future of the universe.
The collection will include notable items such as the skeleton of the Tyrannosaurus rex named ‘Stan’ and the Murchison Meteorite specimen.
The museum will also conduct studies in various fields including zoology, palaeontology, geology, marine biology, molecular research, entomology, and earth sciences.
14. Guggenheim Abu Dhabi
The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is situated in the Saadiyat Cultural District and is a collaboration between the emirate’s Department of Culture and Tourism and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation.
It is scheduled to open in 2025 and will feature collection displays, exhibitions, commissions, research, and publications that aim to present diverse perspectives on the global histories of modern and contemporary art.
The museum, designed by architect Frank Gehry, will blend global modern and contemporary art and showcase the interconnected histories and cultures of our time.
The collection will have a global focus with an emphasis on West Asia, North Africa, and South Asia (WANASA). It will explore points of intersection, transcultural exchange, specific contexts, and histories, while also acknowledging unique artistic achievements.
The collection currently consists of over 600 works spanning various artistic media, generations of artists, and numerous countries and regions, including a particular focus on the Gulf and WANASA.
Once open, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi will serve as a creative platform for artists worldwide.
15. The Zayed National Museum
The Zayed National Museum is dedicated to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE.
Designed by Lord Norman Foster of Foster + Partners, the museum will tell Sheikh Zayed’s story, highlight his achievements, and exhibit galleries that showcase his values and beliefs.
The museum’s galleries are influenced by Sheikh Zayed’s dedication to education, conservation, the environment, sustainability, heritage, culture, humanitarianism, and faith, as stated on the Abu Dhabi Culture website.
Additionally, the Zayed National Museum, located at the Saadiyat Cultural District, will present the natural and human history of the UAE, focusing on its connection with the world.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the changes in the environment throughout millions of years and the development of resources that have influenced society, trade, and the economy over time.
They will also discover evidence of human habitation in this area from 200,000 years ago to the present, as mentioned on the website.
16. Louvre Abu Dhabi Residences
The Louvre Abu Dhabi Residences was first announced in Q1 2022 as a collaboration between Louvre Abu Dhabi and Aldar Properties.
These residences are part of the Saadiyat Grove community on Saadiyat Island. They offer studios and one to three-bedroom apartments with views of the museum. The apartments are available in two colour schemes: Dark Premium and Light Premium.
The Dark Premium apartments feature cool neutrals like charcoal with slate gray undertones, while the Light Premium apartments have taupe and creamy accents.
The interiors of the apartments are designed with marble finishes, metallic accents, and exclusive artworks, as per information seen on the Abu Dhabi Off Plan website. The residences also provide green spaces, communal areas, and covered walkways.
Some two-bedroom apartments have a maid’s room, walk-in closet, powder room, and storage closet. Similarly, three-bedroom apartments include a home office, maid’s room, and similar amenities.
The residences offer various amenities such as an infinity pool, gym, sauna, yoga/pilates studio, meditation lawns, a residential theatre, children’s play area, sunset deck with a juice bar, museum-view lounge, games room, coffee station, and more.
Additional services include in-house laundry, housekeeping, pet spa, shopping bag drop-off, package delivery, refrigerator stocking, reservation assistance, personal fitness trainer, art advisor, 24/7 concierge service, valet service, doorman, and bellboy.
17. Dubai Reefs
Dubai is developing a large floating community called Dubai Reefs. The project will span 200sq km and feature facilities for marine research, regeneration, ecotourism, hospitality, retail, and education.
At the centre will be a marine institute focused on protecting Dubai’s marine environment. It aims to create the world’s largest artificial reef home to over 1 billion corals and 100 million mangrove trees.
The community will offer ecotourism experiences on floating eco-lodges powered completely by renewable energy like solar and hydropower. Another feature is Regenerative Ocean Farming, a climate-friendly food production method.
The Dubai Reefs project’s goal is to become a model for ocean living while reducing climate impacts. It expects to provide social, environmental and economic benefits, transforming Dubai into a sustainable ocean and city destination.
18. Dubai Urban Tech District
Dubai is set to establish the world’s largest urban tech district, known as the Dubai Urban Tech District, on a 140,000sqm plot in Al Jaddaf.
The development aims to foster an innovative urban tech ecosystem by attracting venture capital and supporting entrepreneurs.
According to URB, the developer behind the project, it is expected to generate around 4,000 employment opportunities.
The district will also serve as a global tech hub for urban innovation, providing dedicated office spaces and a range of amenities. Moreover, the Urban Tech District is committed to a zero-carbon policy, aligning with sustainability goals.
Apart from office spaces, the district will offer facilities for hosting conferences, training programs, research activities, seminars, and business incubation.
19. Dubai Agri Hub
Dubai will be home to a massive agri-tourism destination, called Agri Hub by URB, which aims to create 10,000 jobs and ensure food security in the emirate.
The project, slated to open in 2030, will offer a blend of entertainment, adventure, and agricultural experiences.
Local UAE farmers will have the opportunity to sell their products directly to visitors, promoting a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to shopping, dining, and entertainment.
The development aims to enhance the well-being and prosperity of rural communities.
Agri Hub will serve as an innovative blueprint for future decarbonised rural tourism hubs, featuring 100 percent water recycling, green transit systems, bio-saline agriculture, and on-site zero waste management.
The exact location of the project will be confirmed in 2024, and construction is scheduled to begin in 2025.
20. Dubai Cycle City
This Dubai cycling masterplan called ‘Dubai Cycle City 2040’ aims to become the world’s most bike-friendly city, surpassing Amsterdam and Copenhagen.
The plan includes the development of a 93km cycling highway called ‘THE LOOP’ as part of a paradigm shift in urban mobility. The aim is to encourage residents to choose cycling or walking as their primary mode of transport, allowing swift access to key locations and services within the city.
By 2040, Dubai’s population is expected to double to 8 million, and the city’s car-centric lifestyle necessitates a fundamental change in transportation.
The Dubai Cycle City initiative seeks to address this challenge through an entrepreneurial approach. URB, a sustainable architecture firm, is leading the effort and has proposed a comprehensive cycling network consisting of various types of cycling infrastructure. The goal is to create the smartest and most connected cycling infrastructure in the world.
With over 1,000 km of cycling infrastructure and the ambition to outshine renowned cycling cities like Amsterdam, the Dubai Cycle City 2040 project demonstrates the city’s commitment to sustainable urban development and a future where cycling becomes the preferred mode of transportation.
21. THE LOOP
Dubai will be home to a transportation system called ‘THE LOOP,’ a 93km climate-controlled highway aimed at connecting over 3 million residents.
The project, developed by sustainable architecture firm URB, is part of Dubai’s initiative to promote walking and cycling as the primary modes of transport for daily commutes. THE LOOP, still in its research and development phase, aims to create a smart cycling and walking infrastructure.
Key features of THE LOOP include its reliance on 100 percent renewable energy through kinetic power, zero emissions transport, and the use of 100 percent recycled water for irrigation.
The project also focuses on providing additional amenities for residents, promoting health and well-being, and integrating vertical farms for food security.
URB’s CEO, Baharash Bagherian, stated that THE LOOP reflects Dubai’s ambition to become the most connected city on foot or bike and represents the future of urban mobility infrastructure.
The project aligns with Dubai’s goal of transforming into a 20-minute city, where residents can access essential services and destinations within a 20-minute walk or bicycle ride.
With its emphasis on sustainable transportation, diverse community services, and enjoyable climate-controlled environments, THE LOOP aims to revolutionise urban mobility and contribute to Dubai’s long-term vision of creating a more connected and sustainable city.
22. The Link by One&Only One Zabeel
Set to open in January 2024, The Link forms a part of the One Za’abeel project, which is an “urban vertical resort.”
Designed by Japanese architectural firm Nikken Sekkei, this innovative structure will connect two glass towers with the world’s longest cantilevered building.
Positioned 100m above ground, The Link will boast a range of amenities, including restaurants, bars, an observation deck, a gym, a spa, a pool, a banquet hall, and a rooftop terrace, among others. Additionally, it will feature a glass-walled infinity pool and 229 hotel rooms and suites, as well as over 90 residential units.
The Link’s construction is progressing steadily, situated above Dubai’s Happiness Bridge, and is currently undergoing final technical preparations. The ambitious project aims to create a landmark on Dubai’s skyline, offering residents and visitors an experience within its panoramic space.
23. Meydan One Mall
The Meydan One Mall, located beside The Link by One & Only One Za’abeel, will house over 550 retail outlets, along with a 13,200sqm hypermarket.
Its centrepiece will be a “grand civic plaza” capable of accommodating more than 30,000 people, featuring a floating stage for concerts and events.
The plaza will also showcase the Meydan One Mall fountains, accompanied by a dynamic boardwalk lined with numerous restaurants and cafés.
Spanning 25,800sqm, the dancing water fountain will also serve as a major attraction.
Additionally, the mall will comprise 190 food and beverage outlets, a 21-screen cinema, a 1km indoor ski slope, and a 12,000 square-metre Winter Village.
Visitors can also access a 28,000sqm entertainment area, a medical centre, a luxury plaza hotel, a lifestyle canyon, and an expansive crystal lagoon spanning 8.2 kilometres. Ample parking will be available, with a capacity for 12,600 vehicles.
24. Abu Dhabi’s Al Hudayriyat Island project
Abu Dhabi will develop Hudayriyat Island, under a new major project. Covering over 51 million sqm, the project will expand the city’s coastline by 53.5km including 16km of new beaches.
Key attractions include a world-class surfing destination called Surf Abu Dhabi, billed as the largest artificial wave facility globally. Another is Velodrome Abu Dhabi, a new indoor cycling track suitable to host international championships.
The development will also include over 200km of cycle tracks and the largest urban park in Abu Dhabi spanning 2.25 million square metres. It is slated to have varied spaces like a mangrove walk, eco-farm and events valley.
Over the next 18 months, enabling infrastructure for the first phase will be constructed, Arabian Business reported citing Modon Properties.
25. Jubail Islands
Abu Dhabi’s Jubail Islands, located between Saadiyat Island and Yas Island, is an expansive AED15 billion upcoming megaproject.
Managed by the Jubail Island Investment Company (JIIC), it already boasts an impressive mangrove park.
The development aims to accommodate more than 5,000 residents and will include various amenities such as restaurants, a beach club, sports facilities, nurseries, schools, clinics, community centres, and business centres.
In addition, Jubail Islands will offer spacious outdoor areas, including parks, walking tracks, kayaking stations, and cycling routes, catering to nature lovers and watersports enthusiasts. The project seeks to create a well-appointed environment for residents and visitors alike.
The Jubail Islands project, overseen by JIIC, aims to provide a comprehensive living experience with a range of amenities and outdoor activities. The development’s proximity to Saadiyat Island and Yas Island adds to its appeal, as these areas are already well-known for their attractions and recreational offerings.
In November, it was reported that the megaproject is nearing completion and will offer extensive amenities across its six communities.
Commercial areas will include over 18,000sqm of office space and over 8,000sqm of retail space.
The project is managed by LEAD Real Estate Developer and offers low-density, low-impact residential estates within Abu Dhabi’s mangrove forest.
“As Jubail Island nears completion, we remain committed to delivering the best lifestyle experiences to all residents, guests, and professionals. Our team has worked tirelessly to select the right retail partnerships and design the best facilities to reflect our distinct community ethos, always keeping nature central to our decision making,” Engineer Abdulla Saeed Al Shamsi, Corporate Director of JIIC said.
26. Underwater floating mosque in Dubai
In an effort to promote religious tourism and attract more visitors, the UAE is set to open a floating mosque next year at Dubai Water Canal.
Developed by the emirate’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), the AED55 million project will feature a unique prayer hall located underwater that can accommodate up to 75 worshippers.
The floating mosque is part of a larger initiative to draw tourists to religious sites in Dubai. Visitors will reportedly have the opportunity to enter the mosque, pray, and observe the underwater prayer hall. The above-water levels will house a hall for Islamic lectures and workshops.
While the mosque welcomes people of all faiths, visitors will be requested to dress modestly and adhere to Islamic customs. Women will be required to wear attire that covers their heads and shoulders.
27. 3D-printed Dubai mosque
Dubai is set to have the world’s first fully functional 3D-printed mosque by 2025, according to the emirate’s Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities (IACAD). The project aligns with the vision and directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The mosque, located in Bur Dubai, will cover an area of 2,000sqm and accommodate 600 worshippers.
Using 3D printing technology, the mosque’s structure will be built over a period of four months, followed by an additional 12 months to incorporate the necessary facilities. The 3D printer, operated by three workers, will be capable of printing two sqm per hour. Raw materials and a special concrete mix will be mixed by the printer, according to IACAD’s director, Ali Al Suwaidi.
The printing process involves layering a mineral-infused fluid material along a predetermined route mapped by a computer. The fluid then solidifies into concrete, instantly transforming the digital design into a tangible 3D object.
This mosque is part of Dubai’s 3D Printing Strategy, which aims to leverage technology for the betterment of humanity and position the city as a global industry leader by 2030.
Hamad Al Shaibani, the director-general of IACAD, expressed that building the world’s first 3D-printed mosque is a remarkable project, embodying the vision of Sheikh Mohammed.
28. Dubai flying taxi project
Dubai revealed plans to launch flying taxi services by 2026. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum approved designs for vertiports, stations for the aerial vehicles. Images showed interior and exterior designs for vertiports located near transport hubs.
The Dubai Roads & Transport Authority recently shared images, showing the branding of Foster + Partners. One image showed a vertiport adjacent to a Dubai Metro station, facilitating transport integration.
The initial network connects Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Airport and Palm Jumeirah. Vertiports will have designated take-off zones, passenger areas, and security and charging facilities.
Sheikh Mohammed approved prototype vertiport designs near the airport. It will feature two parking floors and a rooftop terminal linked via a bridge to the metro. The project aims to introduce autonomous electric aerial taxis with a range of 241 km and top speed of 300 km/h. Trials have been carried out since 2017 and regulations are being prepared for the upcoming commercial service.
29. Ciel Tower
The Ciel Hotel is scheduled to become the world’s tallest hotel in 2024. With a height of 365 metres, the building will become a prominent addition to Dubai Marina’s skyline. The hotel is managed by The First Group, a property developer based in Dubai.
The architectural design of the hotel is done by NORR, an architectural firm based in London. The hotel will have 82 floors and an observation deck made of glass on the top floor, providing visitors with panoramic views of Dubai Marina, the Palm Jumeirah, and the Arabian Gulf. The hotel will also feature a “sunset lounge” located on the 74th floor.
The structure is 99 percent complete and the electrical, plumbing and mechanical work is 80 percent complete in the building’s basement, podium floors and storey levels, Arabian Business reported earlier this year.
Once completed, the Ciel Hotel will surpass the current tallest hotel in Dubai, the Gevora Hotel.
30. Bugatti Residences
Bugatti and Binghatti have partnered to create the Bugatti Residences, a luxury real estate project in Dubai.
The residences will consist of 182 units spread across 43 floors, offering two-, three-, and four-bedroom penthouses with names inspired by iconic destinations.
The exteriors of the residences draw inspiration from the French Riviera and Dubai’s sand dunes. The units will feature exclusive amenities such as a beach, pool, spa, fitness club, chef’s table, valet services, and car lifts connecting the garage to the penthouse.
The residences will be located in the “heart of Dubai,” which includes both Downtown Dubai and Business Bay.
The furniture in the residences will be custom-made by Rimac, incorporating Bugatti’s design elements.
The partnership aims to bring Bugatti’s concept of luxury from the automotive industry into real estate. The Bugatti Residences are slated for completion within three to three and a half years and targets ultra-high-net-worth individuals from the world over.
31. Mercedes-Benz Places | Binghatti
Binghatti Properties and Mercedes-Benz have announced a collaborative project called Mercedes-Benz Places | Binghatti.
The new branded residences, located in Downtown Dubai, will be surrounded by renowned landmarks such as Dubai Mall.
Also offering views of the Burj Khalifa, Mercedes-Benz Places will be a 65-storey masterpiece rising 341 metres high.
Inspired by Mercedes-Benz’s design philosophy of Sensual Purity, the architecture of the project aims to create timeless and serene spaces.
By using smart home technologies and intelligent mobility solutions, Mercedes-Benz Places Dubai also aims to redefine comfort and convenience in modern living spaces.
32. Sharjah Floating Theatre
According to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), a new open floating theatre project is set to be established in Sharjah, specifically in the Kalba region.
The theatre, which was conceptualised by Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, has a unique design resembling a sea shell and will be situated amidst water basins.
It will offer a panoramic view of the Kalba Corniche and the Arabian Sea. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi reviewed the plans for various projects, including the theatre.
33. Azizi Venice
Azizi Venice is an upcoming real estate project being developed in Dubai South which will cover a large area consisting of residential units, condominium buildings, luxury villas, and mansions.
It will also include leisure, retail, and commercial spaces. The community will have a pedestrianised boulevard that will be temperature-controlled and will feature a cycling and jogging track, sports facilities, and a promenade with eateries and boutiques.
The highlight of the project will be the Azizi Opera, the second opera house in Dubai, located at the heart of the boulevard.
The community will have two five-star hotels and a boutique hotel on an island in the lagoon. Underground parking facilities will be available.
The project aims to be a unique community and tourist attraction, with amenities such as a hospital, kindergarten, schools, and a main road with dining and shopping options. It will have attractive lighting, musical water fountains, and seasonal decorations.
Azizi Venice is strategically located in Dubai South’s Golf District, with good connectivity and proximity to the airport. The project aims to contribute to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to enrich the lives of people in Dubai.
34. Dubai Islands
Formerly known as Deira Islands, the Dubai Islands is a man-made archipelago developed by Nakheel.
The project covers 17sqm across five isles and will feature upmarket residences, hotels, lifestyle projects, and marinas. Approximately 80 hotels are planned, along with luxury and wellness hubs, boutiques, family-friendly resorts, and eco-conscious options.
The development includes 2 square kilometres of parks and open spaces, premium golf courses, marina promenades, and pathways for water and road transportation, walking, and cycling.
The centrepiece of the project is Deira Central, offering a wide range of retail, entertainment, and living options. The upcoming Deira Mall, located on the Dubai Islands, is set to become one of the city’s largest shopping centres.
