Work on ‘The Tower’ skyscraper in Dubai, which is set to soar above the Burj Khalifa as the world’s tallest building, has commenced following an official ground breaking event held on Monday.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, laid the foundation stone for the tower, which is being built in the heart of the Dubai Creek Harbour mega-development.
IN PICTURES: Sheikh Mohammed launches The Tower at Dubai Creek Harbour
Emaar Properties and Dubai Holding are behind the project, which is expected to be completed by 2020, according to UAE state news agency WAM.
“Years ago, we launched Burj Khalifa, the tallest skyscraper in the world. Today, we are celebrating the foundation of a new structure that represents another phase in our journey to be at the forefront of growth in various sectors,” said Sheikh Mohammed.
The tower, which will form the heart of the 6 sq km Dubai Creek Harbour district, is set to “eclipse Burj Khalifa as the tallest building in the world”, WAM reported.
The final height of the structure has not yet been revealed. The 1km-high Kingdom Tower – a skyscraper being built in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – is also set to surpass the Burj Khalifa in height.
The Tower is designed by Spanish/Swiss architect Santiago Calatrava Valls. It will feature observation decks, restaurants and a small hotel – but will not include residential units.
IN PICTURES: Sheikh Mohammed launches The Tower at Dubai Creek Harbour
