As one of the most exciting cities in the world, Dubai is home to architectural projects that continue to grow in ambition and scale. Here are three reasons why Dubai is a trailblazer in construction.

1. The city is a leader in sustainable design

Set in a region of high temperatures and low rainfall, Dubai puts sustainability at the heart of urban development. “Surface temperatures here can reach 70-80 degrees celsius,” explains Sameer Dabekar, Axalta’s Specification Leader for the Middle East. “This is one of the reasons why powder coatings are a popular option. The fact that they can contribute towards LEED points is a benefit for specifiers.”

The first city in the Middle East to receive a Platinum rating in the LEED for Cities category, Dubai has developed its own green building rating too – Al Sa’fat. Since 2020, all new buildings must achieve a Silver Sa’fat rating as a minimum standard. 

2. It’s not always about the skyscrapers

The horizon might be characterised by buildings that soar into seemingly impossible shapes but there is striking design at ground level too.

The Office of the Future was the world’s first functional building constructed using a 3D printer. Designed to house the The Dubai Future Foundation, the building’s cool-white organic forms were created in concrete using a 20-foot-high printer in 17 days; it took a further 48 hours to install.

3. Architecture is enhancing wellbeing

The Sustainable City has been fostering the happiness and health of its residents since it opened in 2016. It’s a community where a holistic approach to living touches every aspect of community life, from medical and educational facilities to onsite yoga, powerwalks and other sporting activities. No wonder it’s been voted the happiest community in Dubai.

The 500 contemporary villas are grouped into neighbourhoods and connected to an urban farm containing 11 biodomes that produce food for the community. A mixed-use communal plaza houses retail spaces, restaurants and office space. 

Looking to the future

The Loop – a proposal by URB, a developer of sustainable cities – will be one of the most talked about structures in Dubai if plans come to fruition. A zero-carbon 93-km indoor walking and cycling track, The Loop will act as a sustainable urban highway, snaking through the city. Thanks to a kinetic walking track, users will create electricity with every footstep.