Hospitality and LeisureIconicProjects

Dubai, UAE

Burj Al Arab

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    Height
    321 m
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    Sqm Facade Area
    85000 sqm
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    Status
    Completed in 1999
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    Architect/Consultant
    W.S. Atkins & Partners
Scope of work

A groundbreaking architecture
project setting new global standards

Scope of work: The project involves the design, supply, manufacture, and installation of 85,000 sqm of semi-unitized curtain walling systems, including 35,000 sqm of Mitsubishi aluminium composite cladding panels fixed on an extruded aluminium grid framework for the external envelope. It also includes 50,000 sqm of high-performance, pressure-equalised semi-unitized curtain walling engineered to withstand wind pressures up to 3.2 kPa. Additional works cover the cladding for the helipad at the top level and a suspended glazing assembly for the rooftop scenic restaurant.

Inspired by the sail of a ship, the Burj Al Arab was designed to be a distinctive landmark for Dubai. With its triangular form and striking silhouette, it became the world’s tallest hotel upon completion and features the world’s tallest atrium, rising 182 meters. As Dubai’s skyline evolves, Burj Al Arab remains an iconic symbol of the city’s transformation and global identity.

Key data

Impressive metrics that define
this extraordinary achievement

  • LOCATION

    Dubai, UAE

  • PROJECT TYPE

    Hospitality & Leisure

  • CLIENT/ DEVELOPER

    Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts

  • ARCHITECT

    W.S. Atkins & Partners

  • MAIN CONTRACTOR

    Al Habtoor Engineering Enterprises Co. L.L.C & Murray & Roberts (Concor)

  • DATE OF AWARD

    1996

  • DATE OF COMPLETION

    1999

  • LEVELS

    60

Technical details

Brief insights
about the project

Energy Efficient Glass

The glass used in the façade is highly reflective with low thermal conductivity, minimizing solar and heat gain from the harsh desert environment. This helps create a more comfortable and energy-efficient internal space.

Cladding Materials

The cladding of the main core, exoskeleton legs, and horizontals is made from white powder-coated resin-bonded aluminium panels. These panels are engineered to resist high local wind pressures for smooth and undistorted appearance on the façade.

Facade Systems

The main building façades are clad with a semi-unitized modular curtain walling system, featuring double-glazed units in alternating light and dark blue bands across the building’s height – separated by white spandrel panels to visually break up the large elevations.

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