One Za'abeel: Dubai's new architectural masterpiece by ALEC
One Za'abeel, located in the heart of Dubai, is much more than just a skyscraper. This ambitious project, piloted by Ithra Dubai (a subsidiary of the Investment Corporation of Dubai), redefines the standards of modern engineering and architecture. Built by ALEC Engineering and Contracting, this emblematic complex is already considered a global engineering feat thanks to The Link, the world's longest inhabited cantilever building.
Project overview
- Full name: One Za'abeel
- Owner: Ithra Dubai
- Main contractor: ALEC Engineering & Contracting LLC
- Architects: Nikken Sekkei (Japan)
- Location: Za'abeel district, between Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Mustaqbal Street
- Tower height :
- Tower A: 304 metres (67 storeys)
- Tower B: 235 metres (59 storeys)
- Start date: January 2016
- Official handover: February 2024
Impressive key figures
- Concrete volume: 215,000 m³
- Quantity of reinforcing steel: 54,110 tonnes
- Number of elevators: 77 (including 5 double-cabin)
- Number of basement floors: 7
- Estimated project cost: USD 1 billion+.
The Link: a global engineering feat
One Za'abeel's most famous feature is undoubtedly The Link, a structure unique in the world:
- Total length: 230 metres
- Cantilever: 66 metres suspended in space
- Weight: approx. 9,580 tonnes
- Height: installed more than 100 metres above the ground
- Installation method: lifting by hydraulic cylinders, with a millimetric guidance system
- Duration of operation: installation in two phases of 8 days each, with no interruption to motorway traffic below
This suspension bridge houses :
- Gourmet restaurants
- A panoramic lounge
- Terraces with 360° views
- Glass walkways for a vertiginous experience
Functions and uses of the One Za'abeel complex
One Za'abeel is a mixed-use project that brings together :
Residential
- 264 luxury apartments
- 94 apartments with hotel services
- Views of Downtown Dubai, Za'abeel Park and the World Trade Centre
- Concierge services, 24-hour security, access to hotel amenities
Hotels
- One&Only One Za'abeel: the world's first vertical urban resort
- SIRO: a hotel dedicated to well-being, sport and physical recovery
- Panoramic suites, spas, Michelin-starred restaurants, sky bar...
Offices
- 17 floors dedicated to high-end workspaces
- Flexible spaces, premium services, LEED-certified environment
- Direct connection to residential and hotel areas
Leisure and well-being
- Rooftop infinity pools
- Connected gyms
- Spas and relaxation areas
- Restaurants run by Michelin-starred chefs
- Meeting rooms and professional events
Strategic location
The One Za'abeel project enjoys an exceptional location, at the crossroads of several of Dubai's major economic and residential districts:
- Close to :
- Za'abeel Park
- Dubai World Trade Centre
- DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre)
- Dubai Frame
- Direct access :
- Sheikh Zayed Road
- Al Mustaqbal Street
- Metro and bus stations nearby
- Free trade zone: part of the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority (DWTCA Free Zone)
Energy performance and certifications
The complex is aiming for several international environmental certifications:
- Sustainable design
- Intelligent energy management
- Reduced water consumption
- Recycled and recyclable materials
- LEED Gold certification in progress
Awards and records
One Za'abeel has already left its mark on world construction history:
- Guinness World Record: longest inhabited cantilever building (The Link)
- CTBUH Award 2024 :
- Best skyscraper in the Middle East and Africa
- Best structure over 300 meters
- MEED Project Award: Project of the Year 2023 in the United Arab Emirates
ALEC: the giant behind the execution
ALEC Engineering & Contracting is one of the most respected companies in the Gulf region:
- Origin: United Arab Emirates
- Year of creation: 1999
- Recent projects: Dubai International Airport, Expo 2020 Mobility Pavilion, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
- Specialties: superstructures, complex engineering, extreme site logistics
- Main partner on One Za'abeel for :
- Main structure
- Vertical logistics
- BIM coordination and 3D modeling
- Link installation
Why invest in One Za'abeel?
One Za'abeel represents a strategic real estate investment opportunity in Dubai:
- Emblematic project with international recognition
- High rental yield due to prestige of location
- Strong demand for premium residences in the area
- Easy access thanks to motorway and metro connections
- Close to business districts: DIFC, Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay
In a nutshell
One Za'abeel is more than just a real estate project: it's a technological feat, an architectural manifesto and a global destination. Thanks to ALEC and Ithra Dubai's vision, this project redefines the standards of luxury and innovation in Dubai.
Guillaume Giroux, Dubai Immo founder and real estate expert, Dubai, UAE
As founder of the Dubai Immo Group and a real estate investor, I bring you daily updates on the Dubai market. My aim is to provide you with all the keys you need to invest wisely and securely, by sharing my in-depth analysis and strategic advice.
