The upcoming Burj Azizi on Sheikh Zayed Road aims to push the boundaries of Dubai’s architectural innovation—figuratively and literally—by becoming the world’s second-tallest structure after the Burj Khalifa.
The 725-meter skyscraper, with 132 stories, is set for completion in 2028. It will feature record-breaking attractions, including the world’s highest hotel lobby, nightclub, observation deck, restaurant, and hotel room.
With an estimated cost of Dh6 billion, Burj Azizi is poised to be an architectural marvel, further enhancing Dubai’s skyline, according to AE7, the Dubai-based architectural consultancy firm behind its design.
A Vertical Destination
Burj Azizi will offer a vertical shopping mall, a seven-star hotel themed around seven cultures, luxury residences—including penthouses and holiday homes—wellness centers, swimming pools, cinemas, gyms, and an adrenaline zone simulating life “in the clouds.”
The tower will also surpass Kuala Lumpur’s 679-meter Merdeka 118 as the second tallest globally. AE7’s principal designers Erik Hokanson, Matthew Fineout, and Moosa Swaidan described the project as a groundbreaking vertical destination and a landmark for Sheikh Zayed Road.
Tackling Unique Challenges
Unlike New York’s Steinway Tower, which is entirely residential, Burj Azizi’s mixed-use design presents unique challenges. “It must accommodate multiple entry points for hotels, residences, the vertical mall, and adrenaline zone within a compact footprint,” said Fineout.
Optimizing the tower’s core—housing elevators, stairs, and mechanical rooms—is another significant challenge, Hokanson explained. Balancing the tower’s structural spine with usable space is critical to meeting its diverse needs.
Foundations and Design
Built on a 57m x 57m base, the tower’s foundation reaches 70 meters deep—deeper than the Burj Khalifa—yet its mass is concentrated vertically. Hokanson highlighted how verticality is emphasized through layered massing and glass elements that stretch skyward.
Wind tunnel testing, conducted with experts from Burj Khalifa’s construction, ensures the tower can withstand lateral winds and gravity loads, a critical aspect given its height and slim proportions.
More than a Skyscraper
Hokanson called the project a “puzzle,” requiring cutting-edge technology and collaboration with global experts. The updated design includes over 44 elevators and multiple entrances for seamless access.
The tower will create a multilevel experience for residents and visitors, with distinct perspectives from afar, at its base, and within its interiors. A dynamic LED light show will transform it into a nighttime spectacle.
A Tribute to Dubai
As construction progresses, AE7 emphasizes that Burj Azizi is not just a skyscraper but a tribute to Dubai’s innovation and ambition. Swaidan noted, “This tower reflects Dubai’s legacy in design, engineering, and innovation, setting new benchmarks in the global market.”
The project highlights Dubai’s relentless pursuit of excellence, with support from local authorities ensuring its successful completion. Burj Azizi will stand as a testament to the emirate’s visionary spirit, leaving a lasting legacy on its skyline.
