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Already home to the world's tallest building, Dubai's infatuation with verticality doesn't seem to be coming to an end anytime soon. State-owned investment firm Dubai Holding is planning on making an indelible mark on the cityscape with a 550-metre-tall tower, a mark that will have a personal touch from Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid.
Construction of Burj Jumeirah is expected to begin right away, putting the first phase of the ambitious project on track for 2023 completion, three years after Dubai hosts the World Expo. Renderings show how the skyscraping centrepiece would anchor a wider community comprised of residences and commercial zones. The new 'Downtown Jumeirah' would be situated near the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel.
The tower naturally affords space for a public observation platform perched 450 metres from the streets below. The base of the needle-like building might be its most unique feature—cultural spaces and water fountains are arranged around the thumbprint of Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid. Like its older sibling the Burj Khalifa, Burj Jumeirah will be covered in a digital display capable of putting on spectacular night lighting displays.
"The launch of Burj Jumeirah in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who has left his fingerprint on the project, is a confirmation of the critical role this development plays in Dubai's vision for the future," said Abdulla Al Habbai, Chairman of Dubai Holding. "The entire Downtown Jumeirah area, and Burj Jumeirah specifically, are distinctive projects that focus on providing an unparalleled experience to both visitors and residents. It will not only serve the needs of residents who are looking to live in cohesive and connected communities, but will also enhance Dubai’s tourism offering by adding another icon to the Emirate’s portfolio of unique attractions."
SkyriseCities will be sure to return to this project as progress continues. For more information, check out the associated Database file and Forum thread, and as always, feel free to join the conversation in the comments section below.
