UAE’s Most Exciting Megaprojects to Watch Out For

Get ready to be amazed with the latest megaprojects set to transform the UAE

The United Arab Emirates is known for its ambitious and innovative development projects that have set a new standard for the construction industry.

With projects ranging from towering skyscrapers to man-made islands and theme parks, the UAE has consistently demonstrated its commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

Over the next 10 years, the UAE is set to embark on several groundbreaking megaprojects that will shape its future.

These projects aim to bring about significant changes to the physical and economic landscape of the country. Additionally, they will create job opportunities and boost economic growth. Furthermore, the projects will also establish the UAE as a leader in sustainability, technology, and innovation.

Dubai

Dubai Reefs

A new project being developed by URB is Dubai Reefs. If completed, it would be the world’s largest floating living lab for marine restoration and ecotourism. This project aims to create a sustainable floating community for marine research, regeneration, and ecotourism, which will help to protect the marine and coastal environment of Dubai.

The organization aims to build the most diverse artificial reef, which will cover 200 square kilometers and create a home to more than one billion corals and 100 million mangrove trees.

The institute will attract oceanographers, climate scientists, ocean farmers, and marine educators for its unique facilities and will also aim to be responsible for the next generation of marine biologists. Several educational programs will also take place here to help spread knowledge to visitors.

urb.ae

Meydan One Mall

Dubai’s vibrant retail scene is set to become even more dynamic with the highly anticipated opening of the Meydan One Mall in the near future. The mall will offer a unique shopping experience, with over 600 retail outlets, including luxury fashion brands, restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues.

One of the main attractions of Meydan One Mall will be the world’s longest indoor ski slope, measuring an impressive one kilometer in length. The 12,000-square-meter Winter Village within the mall will be the perfect place for skiing enthusiasts to enjoy the slopes, regardless of the weather outside.

In addition to the ski slope, the mall will feature a range of entertainment options, such as a 21-screen cinema complex, a hypermarket, and a 25,800-square-meter dancing water fountain.

With its exceptional blend of retail, dining, entertainment, and sustainability, Meydan One Mall is set to become a destination of choice for visitors and residents of Dubai.

meydanone.com

Burj Binghatti

Burj Binghatti is an upcoming residential tower in Dubai that will be the world’s tallest residential tower. It will have over 112 storeys and feature luxurious two and three-bedroom suites and penthouses.

The unique design of Burj Binghatti, with diamond-shaped spires, is the work of Jacob Arabo, a renowned diamond designer.

Developed by Binghatti and Jacob & Co, the tower will have an “infinity swimming pool” overlooking Dubai’s skyline and the iconic Burj Khalifa.

the-burj-binghatti.ae

Dubai Urban Tech District

Dubai’s Urban Tech District is a place where innovation and entrepreneurship in urban technology come together to solve the challenges created by urbanisation. The district, located in the Creekside of Al Jaddaf area, will create 4000 jobs in green urban tech, education and training.

In addition, it will be the largest urban tech district in the world, providing facilities for conferences, training, research, seminars, and business incubation. Furthermore, it will also be home to the urban tech institute, fostering the next generation of urban tech leaders.

Urban tech solutions will address issues like zero-mile food production, food security, affordable and scalable renewable energy, low energy demand water harvesting, zero-waste management, and waste to energy solutions. The district will provide investment opportunities for innovators who are tackling these issues.

Baharash Bagherian, CEO of URB, the company behind the project, said that Dubai is best positioned to lead the Urban Tech Transformation. The district will be a new global tech hub for urban innovation, enabling the growth of urban-tech solutions at a much larger scale, and providing opportunities for a new breed of innovative companies.

urb.ae

World’s first 3D printed mosque in Dubai

Dubai will construct the world’s first 3D-printed mosque that will accommodate 600 worshippers and cover 2,000 square meters over two floors. The mosque will be made from a concrete mix, with construction starting by the end of the year and expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2025.

“We elected to 3D-print the mosque because it’s a new and innovative technology that can potentially save time and resources compared to traditional building methods,” said Ali Mohammad Alhalyan Alsuwaidi, head of engineering at the Dubai Government’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department. The company responsible for construction has not been named.

The building process of the 3D-printed structure involves programming large printing machines with design information, which then build the structure in layers by squeezing out construction material from a nozzle.

Dubai Wasl Tower

Wasl Tower is a skyscraper project that is currently under construction in Dubai on Sheikh Zayed Road. The 302-meter tower, once completed in Q2 2024, will be the region’s tallest ceramic-façade building, featuring 229 residential units, 258 hotel rooms, 185,345 square feet of office space, and 11 parking floors.

The building’s unique design is based on its Z-axis, and it adopts a classic ‘contrapposto’ movement, allowing it to face almost every direction. Moreover, the tower is also equipped with shading and cooling techniques to acclimatize to local temperatures during hot summer months.

unstudio.com

Dubai Agri Hub

Dubai Agri Hub is a new project that aims to support the growth of the agriculture sector in the UAE. 

The project will provide a platform for farmers, entrepreneurs, and investors to connect and collaborate on agricultural initiatives, with a focus on sustainable and innovative farming practices. The hub will feature state-of-the-art facilities such as greenhouses, laboratories, and food processing units.

One of the key goals of the Dubai Agri Hub is to increase local food production and reduce the UAE’s reliance on imported produce. The hub will also support the growth of the country’s aquaculture industry, with facilities for fish and shrimp farming.

In addition to its agricultural focus, the Dubai Agri Hub will also serve as a community space with recreational areas and facilities for events and exhibitions.

The construction is due to begin in 2025 and is expected to be completed in 2030.

urb.ae

Kempinski Floating Palace

Imagine staying at a luxury hotel that floats on water! That’s what the Kempinski Floating Palace project in Dubai is all about. It’s the first of its kind in the city and it’s a 156-room and suite hotel that’s connected to 12 other floating luxury villas. Guests can arrive by speed boat or even with their own boats. And if you have a yacht, there’s a yacht parking deck for up to 16 yachts and a connected floating helipad too!

The main building of this floating palace is structured in four parts and is connected in the center by a glass pyramid. It has all the amenities you’d expect from a luxury hotel like gourmet restaurants, bars, spa, pools, boutiques, and even banquet areas. The 12 luxury villas, which are partly for sale and partly for rent by hotel guests, are connected by pontoons and spread over two floors with a roof terrace and infinity pool. The villas offer two, three, or four bedrooms, and crew and staff rooms.

Furthermore, the luxury houseboats are really innovative and come equipped with all the technical features of a smart home. They have panoramic windows that offer a great view of the surrounding area. You can even cruise around in them at a maximum speed of six nautical miles because they’re environment-friendly and come equipped with solar panels.

According to the CEO of Kempinski Group and chairman of the management board of Kempinski AG, the project by Seagate Shipyard will be open to guests from 2023 onwards. 

Ciel Tower

Ciel Tower is a skyscraper that’s currently under construction and set to become the tallest hotel-only building in the world at over 360 meters tall.

The architectural masterpiece is the latest landmark addition to the Marina district’s world-famous skyline, and The First Group’s largest and most luxurious project to date.

The building’s design is truly unique, with tapers in the upper and lower parts, a silver-colored facade, and some sleek recesses in the upper part that will include a bar and infinity pool.

Moreover, the tower will have a total of 82 floors, with over 1,042 rooms, including 150 suites. The skyscraper’s foundation required over 12,000 cubic meters of concrete and 3000 tons of steel!

The project is set to be completed in 2023, and the tower is expected to open its doors in 2024.

cieltowerdubai.com

Dubai Vertical City

The Vertical City is a zero-energy building proposed by the Italian architecture firm Luca Curci Architects at the Knowledge Summit in Dubai in 2019. It is designed to be a self-sustainable tower on water that can house up to 25,000 people with a zero-waste policy and the use of renewable resources such as solar panels, wind turbines, and wind water.

Incorporating natural elements on every level, the building aims to prioritize natural light and ventilation. Additionally, the tower will be surrounded by photovoltaic glass, generating energy for the entire structure. With green zones spread throughout the tower, the intention is to promote a healthier lifestyle and enhance community life.

Furthermore, accessibility will not be an issue with the tower being reachable by water, land, or air. The circular basement will be equipped with external and internal docks and three naval entries, while a semi-submerged bridge will cater to pedestrians, cars, and public electric transport. Moreover, helipads will be available on the upper garden.

The Vertical City will have 10 modular layers with a height of 750 meters and 180 floors, with a capacity of 25,000 people. Each modular repeated layer will be at a height of 72 meters, with a diameter of 155 meters, of which 120 meters is empty space. Moreover, the building will house apartments, duplexes, villas, offices, stores, and other facilities.

The structure will also feature multiple underwater floors that will host parking and technical areas, as well as spas, meditation centers, gyms, and luxury hotel rooms with underwater views. The innovative project is designed to align with the sustainability goals of Dubai and the UAE, with a focus on creating a more sustainable way of living and reducing poverty.

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is a new ultra-luxury resort being built in Dubai, set to open in 2023. Taking inspiration from a super yacht, the resort’s design will complete a trilogy of nautical-inspired hotels on the Jumeirah shorefront.

With 386 rooms and suites, four penthouses, and 83 luxury hotel apartment suites, guests will enjoy stunning sea views of the Arabian Gulf or yacht-filled marina from every room. Additionally, each room will feature a balcony or terrace, along with state-of-the-art amenities.

The resort will feature serene private gardens, a private beach, and a sprawling 3,500 square metre, three-storey spa. Guests can take a dip in one of the collection of gorgeous pools, including a large circular pool, a family infinity pool, and a private VIP adult pool. The resort will boast an impressive collection of 10 restaurants and bars, designed by globally renowned restaurant designers. Additionally, there will be a luxury 82-berth marina, a scenic boardwalk, and a cluster of nine ocean-facing bedroom marina villas.

jumeirah.com

Abu Dhabi

Abrahamic Family House

The Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi will be a symbol of peace and understanding between different faiths. It will include a mosque, church, synagogue, and an educational center, showcasing the values shared between Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

The upcoming project is inspired by the Document on Human Fraternity signed by Pope Francis and Grand Imam Ahmed Al-Tayeb in 2019. It aims to create a space for dialogue, learning, and worship that promotes tolerance and hospitality to all.

The design of the building features three cubic volumes of identical size that express their unique characteristics while maintaining an external visual harmony. The project will be open to all and built on a podium.

It is a powerful representation of the UAE’s belief in tolerance and hospitality and serves as a beacon of hope for a more peaceful world.

Completion date is anticipated in 2023.

The Zayed National Museum

The Zayed National Museum is being built to honor the life and legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE. It is designed by the renowned architectural firm Foster + Partners, who have incorporated elements of traditional Arabic architecture into the modern and innovative design.

The museum is set to be a cultural landmark, with a focus on showcasing the UAE’s history and culture to the world. The building itself will feature a series of wings, inspired by the feathers of a falcon, which is a symbol of strength and courage in Arabic culture. There will be a range of exhibits, including interactive displays, galleries, and a theater. It will also include a library and research center, as well as a café and gift shop.

In addition, the museum will showcase Sheikh Zayed’s life, achievements, and vision for the UAE. Visitors will be able to learn about his work in developing the country and his commitment to sustainability. 

fosterandpartners.com

Abu Dhabi Midfield Terminal

Abu Dhabi’s new Midfield Terminal, designed by KPF, is set to open at the end of 2023. The terminal is expected to open on UAE National Day, December 2.

The terminal is designed by KPF and is expected to be able to accommodate up to 11,000 passengers per hour, or about 45 million passengers annually, once it is launched. Spanning over 700,000 square meters, the terminal is valued at 10.8 billion dirham ($2.94 billion), according to Reuters.

The new terminal has a road tunnel leading from the midfield to the present terminal, which would facilitate easy connections for passengers. A satellite boarding concourse can also be added to expand the midfield terminal. 

The company has been using technology to transform the digital journey for travelers from the time they leave home to arrive at their destination. The new terminal is expected to provide a seamless and comfortable travel experience for passengers, with state-of-the-art amenities and facilities.

adairports.ae

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is a new marine theme park being built in Abu Dhabi. The park is set to open on 23rd of May 2023 and will cover an area of 183 acres.

The new park will feature a wide range of marine animals, including dolphins, whales, sea lions, and sharks. Visitors can enjoy up-close encounters with these creatures, as well as watch them perform in shows and exhibitions.

A variety of attractions will also be available, including roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly rides. There will be plenty of dining options available, as well as shops and other entertainment venues.

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is being developed by Miral, a company that specializes in creating immersive entertainment experiences. The park will be located on Yas Island, a popular tourist destination in Abu Dhabi.

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi goals is to provide visitors with a fun and educational experience, while also promoting conservation and the protection of marine life. The park will focus on research and conservation efforts, as well as educational programs and initiatives.

seaworldabudhabi.com

Saadiyat Grove

Saadiyat Grove is a new residential project in Abu Dhabi, located on Saadiyat Island, the cultural and tourism hub of the city. The project, developed by Aldar Properties, features a range of luxury villas, townhouses and apartments, designed to cater to the needs of modern families.

Additionally, it offers a unique blend of nature and luxury living, with over 65% of the area dedicated to open green spaces and parks. The community also features a range of amenities including a swimming pool, gym, playgrounds, and a clubhouse.

The villas and townhouses come in a range of sizes and designs, with spacious interiors and modern finishes. Also, the apartments are available in one, two, and three-bedroom configurations, and offer stunning views of the sea and the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club.

The project is strategically located close to a number of attractions including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, and the Saadiyat Island Beach Club. It is also conveniently located close to major transportation routes, providing easy access to the rest of the city.

aldar.com

Guggenheim Abu Dhabi

The Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum is set to open in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District in 2025. The Guggenheim is famous for its unconventional designs, and the Abu Dhabi branch is no different.

It will feature 28 galleries spread across 11,600 square meters, with an additional 23,000 square meters of exhibition spaces contained within the distinctive cones and terraces attached to the building.

The museum will focus on modern and contemporary art, with a special emphasis on pieces from the West Asia, North Africa, and South Asia region. The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi will act as a platform for artists from this area. It will commission work from innovative creators and explore how the interconnected histories and cultures of the region have shaped our world.

Natural History Museum

Abu Dhabi is getting a new Natural History Museum in Saadiyat Island. It opens in 2025 and will showcase earth’s natural history over 13.8 billion years. It will highlight the geological history of the region, local flora and fauna, and tell earth’s history through an Arabian lens.

The museum will have a teaching institute and scientific research centre for zoology, palaeontology, marine biology, molecular research and earth sciences. Visitors can see rare specimens, including a 67-million-year-old tyrannosaurus rex skeleton and the Murchison Meteorite. The museum aims to inspire curiosity and passion for the natural world.

Ras Al Khaimah

Wynn Resorts Ras Al Khaimah

Wynn Resorts is launching the Wynn Al Marjan Island, an integrated resort on Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, opening in early 2027. The multi-billions resort is on the beach, and has a beautiful design that rises 305 meters above the Arabian Gulf, with stunning views of the sea.

The resort has 1,500 rooms, suites, and villas, and guests can indulge in high-end shopping, a state-of-the-art events facility, an exclusive spa, and extensive entertainment choices. Some of the entertainment options include a theatre hosting unique productions and daily light and laser shows.

The project’s cost is USD 3.9 billion (Dhs14.32 billion), a significant foreign direct investment in the Emirate’s hospitality industry. Construction has already started for the opening in 2027.

Wynn Resorts will also feature the first casino in the UAE, with further details to be released later this year, according to Craig Billings, the CEO of Wynn Resorts. The casino component is set to be larger than the one at Wynn Las Vegas, providing an immersive and exhilarating experience for visitors.

Sharjah

Sharjah Floating Theatre

Sharjah, known as the cultural capital of the Arab world, has a variety of thrilling projects such as the House of Wisdom and Khorfakkan amphitheatre and waterfall. Soon, Sharjah will be home to a new open floating theatre project.

The theatre is located on the corniche of the city of Kalba and has a unique seashell-like shape surrounded by water basins. This design came about from an idea by the Ruler of Sharjah himself.

The floating theatre is set to offer a unique cultural experience to the people of Sharjah and visitors alike. The opening date is yet to be announced.

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