The dazzling skyline of Dubai has added yet another shimmering jewel: One Za’abeel. Officially recognized by Guinness World Records for having the world’s longest cantilevered building, this engineering marvel redefines architectural boundaries. Nestled in the heart of Dubai, the structure stands as a beacon of innovation, connecting two towers with a suspended concourse called The Link.
The Link ambitiously stretches 230 meters (754 feet) and projects 67.5 meters (221 feet) over the city. This floating walkway, suspended 100 meters (328 feet) above the ground, hosts the UAE’s longest infinity pool and offers 360-degree views of Dubai's stunning skyline and the expansive desert beyond.
But why create such a daring structure? Koko Nakamura, Chief Architect at Nikken Sekkei, explained, “We wanted to create an elegant building that both represented the spirit of Dubai and provided a strong gateway for the city.” The towers stand tall—305 meters and 235 meters, respectively—easily capturing the attention of travelers arriving from Dubai International Airport.
The design and construction of One Za’abeel were nothing short of monumental. The cantilever alone weighs nearly 10,000 tons and required meticulous planning and execution. The assembly was done in two phases. Over 12 days, the main section, weighing 8,500 tons, was lifted into place. This lift was one of the heaviest in the region. The smaller 900-ton section was attached in just four days, completing the record-breaking feat.
The architectural ingenuity of One Za’abeel doesn't stop at its cantilever. The structure features 26,000 square meters of premium office spaces, a SIRO hotel, and 264 ultra-luxurious residential units. The twin towers are also home to eight Michelin-inspired restaurants, including a Japanese-Peruvian fusion spot that offers a dining experience unlike any other. All these amenities are encapsulated within low-emission, high-transparent glass exteriors that not only provide panoramic views but also offer high solar shielding.
This incredible project faced its share of challenges. Originally slated to open in late 2021, the timeline was pushed back due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this, construction surged ahead with unwavering determination, embodying the spirit of a city known for its record-breaking feats.
In addition to its visual and architectural splendor, One Za’abeel serves a practical purpose, acting as a bridge between its two towers and easing traffic flow into downtown Dubai. The development is conveniently connected to key financial districts and offers an array of retail options, urban parks, and green spaces that encourage community interaction.
Floating above the bustling streets of Dubai, The Link provides more than just a pathway. It offers a unique vantage point where visitors can indulge in luxury dining or simply soak in the spectacular views. Moreover, this sky-high marvel has managed to become an instant hit among tourists and locals alike, serving as a must-visit destination in the city.
While the cantilever’s instant visual impact might draw in the crowds, it’s the engineering genius that often leaves them in awe. Constructed from a robust tubular steel member system arranged in a diamond grid pattern, The Link boasts both structural stability and a spacious, column-free interior. This design ensures safety while reducing wind-induced swaying, a common issue with tall buildings.
It’s not just architects and engineers who marvel at the structure. Shaddy Gaad, Senior Marketing Manager at Guinness World Records, remarked, “Dubai has transformed into a record-breaking hub, serving as a model in overcoming limitations and achieving the seemingly impossible. The Link at One Za’abeel showcases this relentless determination and innovative vision that defines the Emirate.”
Intriguingly, Dubai is no stranger to record-breaking landmarks. The city is already home to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and the world’s largest fountain, the Dubai Fountain. One Za’abeel now joins this list, standing as a testament to human ingenuity and the unending ambition to reach new heights.
An engineering spectacle, a luxury destination, and a testament to innovation, One Za’abeel is more than just a building—it’s a new chapter in Dubai’s storied architectural narrative. As travelers come and go, this breathtaking structure reminds them of the city’s limitless potential and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Issam Galadari, Director of One Za’abeel Holdings, perfectly encapsulated this sentiment, noting, “Achieving the Guinness World Records title for the 'Longest Cantilevered Building' serves as a badge of recognition that we have successfully delivered on the promises we set for the development from the very beginning.”
As Dubai continues to evolve, One Za’abeel stands as a sterling example of what happens when ambition meets innovation. As residents move into their luxurious new homes and tourists explore the sky-high marvel, one thing is clear: the sky is not the limit; it’s just the beginning.
