NIKKEN SEKKEI bridges dubai's new landmark with the world's longest cantilever

Nikken Sekkei completes One Za’abeel, dubai’s new landmark

The recently constructed One Za’abeel mixed-used complex in the United Arab Emirates, crafted by Japanese design firm NIKKEN SEKKEI, features the world’s longest cantilever, spanning 66 meters above the city. The development consists of two elegant skyscrapers (the Tower and The Residences) connected by an enclosed horizontal bridge called The Link, enhancing the city’s architectural landscape. Situated at the gateway to Dubai’s central financial district, the project serves as a landmark for travelers arriving from Dubai International Airport and symbolizes ambition, innovation, and connectivity. Its prime location facilitates easy access to the downtown area, underscoring Dubai’s ongoing progress. One Za’abeel aims to foster a vibrant community catering to residents and global visitors, with a diverse offering of dining options, retail outlets, office spaces, and distinctive urban hotel experiences. The Link, suspended 100 meters in the air, features a 230-meter viewing platform that spans the east-to-west axis between the towers, offering visitors breathtaking panoramic views. ‘One Za’abeel is now the first building that greets visitors as they travel from the airport to the city centre, and will be the last sight as they leave. We wanted to create an elegant building that both represented the spirit of Dubai and provided a strong gateway for the city,’ describes Koko Nakamura, Chief Architect of NIKKEN SEKKEI Ltd.

all images by Hufton + Crow

arising as a strong gateway for the city

Constructed with a robust tubular steel member system arranged in a diamond grid pattern along four sides, The Link ensures structural stability while providing a spacious, column-free interior. The construction process involved lifting the first section of The Link, weighing around 8,500 tonnes, over a 12-day period, marking one of the region’s heaviest recorded lifts. The 900-tonne remaining cantilever tip was lifted and attached over a four-day period. Placed between the towers, The Link enhances safety and reduces wind-induced swaying, a frequent issue with tall buildings. One Za’abeel covers 530,000 square meters of mixed-use space, with 12,000 square meters of retail, 26,000 square meters of offices, and new luxury residential spaces. The towers are connected by the Al Mustaqbal Bridge, easing commuting as they drive directly into the downtown area. Creating a lateral new gateway to the city, One Za’abeel Tower reaches a height of 305m, while the second tower, One Za’abeel The Residences, reaches a height of 235 meters. The exteriors by NIKKEN SEKKEI feature Low-E glass with high transparency and high solar shielding performance, with glass fins providing visual interest and solar shielding. The Podium offers retail and dining options, surrounded by green spaces and walkways. Urban parks, a playground, and a garden pool enrich the entrance experience.

a symbol of ambition, innovation, and connectivity

it features two elegant towers connected by an enclosed horizontal bridge

The Link, suspended 100 meters in the air, features a 230-meter viewing platform

the exteriors feature Low-E glass with high transparency and high solar shielding performance

One Za’abeel is redefining Dubai’s skyline

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project info:

name: One Za’abeel

architects: NIKKEN SEKKEI | @nikkensekkei_global/

location: Dubai

contractor: ALEC Engineering and Contracting

design partners: WSP MIDDLE EAST (resident engineer, AoR, MEP, structure, specialties), INHABIT (façade), LIMAH (signage), MCTS (kitchen services), CRACKNELL (landscape), BARR AND WRAY (pool equipment), RWDI (wind engineering), LPA (façade, interior lighting), ESD (signage), NORTECH (aeronautical survey), LW DESIGN GROUP and associated sub-consultants, DENNISTON, ROCKWELL GROUP, DWP, HBA SOCIAL, STUFISH and associated sub-consultants, DPA, WELLNESS, BRIMAXX, FARMBOY, CAPSULE ARTS, CROWD DYNAMICS, BRASH

photography: Hufton + Crow | @huftonandcrow