Dubai plans new tallest tower

Plans have been unveiled for a new tower in Dubai that will be taller than the Burj Khalifa.

Developed by Emaar Properties, the new tower will become the centrepiece of the Dubai Creek Harbour development – a new 6km² complex located in the historic Dubai Creek area, 10 minutes from the Dubai International Airport. It will be designed by Spanish-Swiss architect Santiago Calatrava Valls.

And while the exact height of the new tower has not been confirmed, it is expected to be slightly taller than the 828-metre Burj Khalifa, which is currently the tallest building in the world. It is expected to be ready in time for the World Expo in 2020.

“The tower is our tribute to the positivity, energy and optimism that Dubai and the UAE celebrate. It will be the destination for the world to visit, enjoy and celebrate life, as Dubai prepares to host the Expo 2020. With the tower, we are delivering a compelling monument that will add long-term economic value,” said Mohamed Alabbar, chairman of Emaar Properties.

The tower is said to draw its design inspiration from the lily, while also evoking the image of a minaret. It will have a thin stem that is linked to the ground with cables.

Once complete, it is expected to house a boutique hotel, garden observation decks designed to “recreate the splendour of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon”, and “rotating balconies that extend outward”.

“My team and I put the best of ourselves into this project, since it is a very special honour to participate,” said Santiago Calatrava Valls. “The collaboration with Emaar Properties makes it even more exciting. The design has clear reference to the classic art from the past and culture of the place while serving as a great technological achievement.”

Despite being taller than the Burj Khalifa however, the new tower is unlikely to become the world’s tallest building – or at least not for long; a 1km-high tower is also scheduled to open in Jeddah in 2020.