new images detail santiago calatrava’s plans for the world’s tallest tower
all images courtesy of emaar properties

earlier this year, santiago calatrava announced that he had been chosen to build a landmark observation tower in dubai creek harbor. now, more details of the scheme have been revealed, including the fact that the structure will rise ‘a notch’ above the burj khalifa — currently the world’s tallest building. referred to simply as ‘the tower’, the ambitious project seeks to establish dubai creek harbour as one of the city’s most desired residential and leisure destinations.

the tower at dubai creek harbour / video courtesy of emaar properties

developed by emaar properties, the building will offer a panoramic vista across the city from ‘the pinnacle room’, a space that opens to sweeping sky views. observation garden decks attempt to recreate the splendor of the ‘hanging gardens of babylon’ — one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. fully glazed balconies extend outward from the tower’s core, rotating outside the skin of the structure. in addition, the tower will have a luxury boutique hotel for visitors.

the structure will rise slightly above the burj khalifa, currently the world’s tallest building

with a design influenced by the natural contours of a lily flower, the scheme evokes the image of a minaret — a common feature and distinctive aspect of islamic culture. the elongated oval-shaped bud houses the observation decks, while the slender stem is engineered to its most efficient diameter. the structure is linked to the ground with cables, which, along with the structural core, will be gently illuminated by night.

the project seeks to establish dubai creek harbour as one of the city’s most desired destinations

‘from the beginning, my team and I have tried to put the best of ourselves into this project, since it is very special and is a great honor to participate,’ said santiago calatrava. ‘the collaboration with such a prestigious firm as emaar properties makes it even more exciting and demanding. the design has clear reference to the classic art from the past and the culture of the place while serving as a great technological achievement. in my whole career, I have perceived technology as a vehicle to beauty and to art. this project envisages an artistic achievement in itself, inspired by the idea of welcoming people, not only from dubai and the UAE, but from the entire world. it is a symbol of an abiding belief in progress.’

fully glazed balconies extend outward from the tower’s core

mohamed alabbar, chairman of emaar properties, added: ‘the tower in dubai creek harbour is our tribute to the positivity, energy and optimism that dubai and the UAE celebrate, led by a leadership committed to all-round progress. a shining beacon of hope for the world, celebrating diversity and human achievements, this new iconic landmark further highlights the country’s ambition and futuristic vision and enhance our nation’s pride. it will be the destination for the world to visit, enjoy and celebrate life, as dubai prepares to host the expo 2020.’

the tower will contain a luxury boutique hotel for visitors

the scheme will form part of dubai creek harbour, a 6 square kilometer development that is two times the size of downtown dubai and located 10 minutes from the city’s international airport. the waterfront development is centered off the dubai creek, and in close proximity to the ras al khor national wildlife sanctuary, protected under the UNESCO ramsar convention and home to over 67 species of water birds.

the design is influenced by the natural contours of a lily flower