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EXCLUSIVE: We run down some of the most well-known record-breaking developments to have graced the UAE landscapes in the last few years
As one explores UAE’s sprawling landscape, it becomes evident that the city is a living testament to the saying, “If you can dream it, you can achieve it.” Dubai, one of its gleaming metropolis, has become synonymous with pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
Renowned for its audacious vision and relentless pursuit of architectural marvels, the country stands proudly as a global leader in record-breaking developments.
From towering skyscrapers to artificial islands that defy nature’s limits, UAE has built a reputation as a country where dreams are transformed into reality.
To commemorate the country’s achievements, we run down some of the record-breaking projects in the UAE below.
Record-breaking projects in the UAE
1. Burj Khalifa
This shouldn’t come as a surprise considering the Burj Khalifa is what Dubai is most known for. Standing at a height of 828 metres (2,717 feet), the building was constructed using a ‘buttressed core’ structural system, where a central core provides stability, and the outer walls are reinforced with buttresses.
The tower features a cladding system that helps reduce wind forces, and the construction employed a combination of reinforced concrete and steel.
Built to symbolise the contrast between Dubai’s past and present architectural achievements, the Dubai Frame is recognised as the largest picture frame in the world. The building was constructed using a combination of steel and reinforced concrete, employing meticulous engineering and construction techniques.
Inside the Dubai Frame, various amenities and features were incorporated to enhance the visitor experience. The interior spaces were meticulously designed, including observation decks, galleries, exhibitions, and interactive displays that showcase the history and future of Dubai. State-of-the-art technologies and multimedia installations were seamlessly integrated into the structure.
3. Dubai Mall
The construction of Dubai Mall began in 2004 and took approximately four years to complete. The construction process involved the use of various materials including reinforced concrete, steel frameworks, and glass facades. The mall officially opened its doors to the public in November 2008.
Emaar Properties, one of the largest real estate developers in the UAE, was the main developer and contractor for Dubai Mall. Emaar played a crucial role in overseeing the entire construction process, collaborating with several architectural firms, engineering consultants, and construction companies.
In terms of design and architecture, Singapore-based DP Architects took the reign alongside Wimberly, Allison, Tong & Goo (WATG), and other renowned architectural firms.
Dubai Mall’s construction involved a massive collaborative effort, drawing on the expertise of numerous contractors, consultants, and professionals in the field. The result is a sprawling retail and entertainment complex that has become the largest shopping mall in the world by total area, offering a diverse range of retail outlets, entertainment venues, and attractions to visitors from around the globe.
4. Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah is an artificial island shaped like a palm tree and is one of the three Palm Islands in Dubai. It involved land reclamation and required extensive dredging and sand placement to create the palm-shaped structure. A crescent-shaped breakwater was constructed to protect the island from waves, and buildings and infrastructure were subsequently built on the reclaimed land.
The construction of the Palm Jumeirah began in 2001 and was completed in 2006. It involved a combination of materials suitable for land reclamation and subsequent development including sand, rock and geotextile fabric, as well as reinforced concrete.
The construction of Palm Jumeirah involved the collaboration of various stakeholders including Nakheel Properties, Jan De Nul and Van Oord, Al Habtoor Engineering, and Dutco Balfour Beatty, among others.
5. Jebel Jais Flight
Jebel Jais Flight is the world’s longest zipline, located in Ras Al Khaimah. It stretches for approximately 2.8 kilometres (1.75 miles) and reaches speeds of up to 150 kilometres per hour (93 mph). The zipline was built using high-strength steel cables and a complex support structure anchored securely to the rugged mountain terrain.
6. Ain Dubai
Ain Dubai, also known as the Dubai Eye, is the world’s tallest observation wheel. Located on Bluewaters Island in Dubai, it stands at a height of 250 meters (820 feet). Ain Dubai consists of 48 capsules that can accommodate up to 1,750 passengers at a time, offering panoramic views of the city’s skyline and coastline.
The construction of Ain Dubai represents an extraordinary engineering achievement, combining precision engineering, architectural design, and advanced construction techniques. Its construction began in 2015 and was completed in 2020.
7. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Located in Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world. The construction involved a combination of traditional and modern techniques. It features 82 domes, more than 1,000 columns, and 24-carat gold gilded chandeliers. The main structure is made of steel and concrete, while the exterior is adorned with white marble and intricate floral designs.
Despite not holding any official records, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is renowned for its grandeur and architectural beauty. It served as a significant religious and cultural landmark in the UAE.
8. Louvre Abu Dhabi
The Louvre Abu Dhabi is a branch of the Louvre Museum in Paris and is known for its stunning architecture. The dome-shaped structure is made of eight layers of interlocking steel and aluminium, creating a “rain of light” effect.
The complex required significant engineering expertise to handle the challenging construction process and ensure the stability of the large dome.
9. Dubai Canal
The Dubai Canal is an artificial waterway that runs through the heart of Dubai, connecting the Dubai Creek with the Arabian Gulf. It holds the record for the world’s longest single-line water fountain, stretching approximately 380 meters (1,247 feet). The canal features a captivating water spectacle, with cascading water jets and vibrant light displays.
10. Dubai Fountain
The Dubai Fountain, located at the base of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. It spans an area of 30 acres and features water jets that shoot up to a height of 150 meters (492 feet). The fountain performs captivating water shows accompanied by music, creating a mesmerising spectacle for visitors.
11. Dubai Opera
Dubai Opera is a world-class performing arts centre located in Downtown Dubai. It holds the record for the world’s largest building with a 360-degree projection screen. The theatre features state-of-the-art technology, including a flexible auditorium that can be transformed into different seating arrangements, making it suitable for a wide range of performances and events.
12. Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC)
ADNEC is the largest exhibition centre in the Middle East and holds multiple records. It boasts the largest indoor air-conditioned exhibition space in the region, covering over 133,000 square meters (1.4 million square feet). ADNEC also has the largest purpose-built conference hall with a seating capacity of 6,000. It is a hub for major international conferences, exhibitions, and events. |
