Dubai just broke ground on what will be the world’s tallest tower. Developer Emaar Properties says The Tower at Dubai Creek Harbor will stand 928 meters tall, dwarfing the Burj Khalifa’s 829.8 meters. Designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, the energy-efficient tower will feature observation decks and elements reminiscent of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum chose Calatrava’s design, which should be complete in 2020 – just in time for the World Expo 2020. Abu Dhabi Media publication The National likened The Tower at Dubai Creek Harbor to the Eiffel Tower, built for Paris’ 1889 World Fair.
Related: The world’s new tallest tower moves forward in Dubai
After the groundbreaking ceremony on monday, Sheikh Mohammed said, “The new tower sets another challenge in the history of human architecture – a race the UAE deserves to lead. We strive for new achievements. A new heart for our city and global landmark. Humankind has no ceiling or border but our imagination.”
Calatrava cited Islamic tradition as inspiration for the colossal tower, which will be nearly 100 meters (just over 328 feet) higher than the Burj Khalifa. The Tower at Dubai Creek Harbor will be a key component of Emaar Properties’ Dubai Creek Harbor development, which will be double the size of Dubai’s current downtown area.
Emaar Properties describes The Tower at Dubai Creek Harbor as a “next-generation smart hub” packed with cutting-edge technology. According to the company, the tower will “incorporate an advanced digital lifestyle defined by the latest developments in artificial intelligence.” They have already finished wind-engineering and seismic tests to ensure the safety of the soon-to-be tallest tower in the world.
+ Emaar Properties
+ Santiago Calatrava
Via The National
Images via Emaar Properties (1,2)
