About to be stitched into Dubai’s skyline, another record-breaking skyscraper set to become the world’s second tallest building when complete, according to developers.
Out of two possible designs for the Burj Azizi, one 526 metres tall and the other over 700 metres, the taller structure has now been selected and approved, in what Mirwais Azizi, Azizi Developments’ founder and chairman said was his “dream project” as the ground was first broken in January 2024.
World’s highest hotel room, restaurant and observation deck
Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, in Dubai’s World Trade Center district, and due for completion in 2028, the 725m project will now rise 131 storeys, accommodating apartments, an all-suite “seven-star” luxury hotel and a seven-floor shopping mall.
It will beat not only the city’s current second tallest building (Marina 101) but also overtake the world’s current second-tallest building, Malaysia’s Merdeka 118. However it will stand just over 100 metres short of its world-famous neighbour a little over three kilometres away, the 828-metre-tall Burj Khalifa.
In addition to entertainment facilities such as cinemas, spas, wellness centres, pools and gyms, the Burj Azizi will boast the world’s highest hotel lobby, nightclub, restaurant, observation deck, and the world’s highest hotel room, meaning visitors to those amenities will experience higher heights than those who choose to ascend the Burj Khalifa instead.
“Our investment in Burj Azizi, exceeding AED 6 billion (almost €1.5 billion), shows our commitment to creating not just a stunning building but a whole new attraction for Dubai,” Azizi said.
Skyscape of giants
Effectively, the Burj Azizi will add to the skyscape of giants that is starting to define destination Dubai, a capital made up of more towers reaching over 300 metres tall than any other city around the globe, according to figures from the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat. The new tower will have to compete with a vast array of architectural wonders but Azizi is determined it will stand the test of time.
“My vision for Burj Azizi is to create a lasting legacy, a tribute to Dubai as a destination of choice for both residents and visitors and a monumental achievement in engineering,” said Azizi.
Nearby meanwhile, the Tiger Sky Tower, slated to open in 2029, will give the Azizi a run for its money, breaking five other world records, boasting the world’s highest infinity pool and the tallest zip line at 447 metres. In a glass city, in a desert, it will even contain a rain forest.
