Iconic Sailboat Hotel
Declan Kennedy
| 02-02-2024
· Information Team
When it comes to Dubai, the graceful silhouette of the sailboat hotel comes to mind.
Its iconic sail-shaped structure soaring into the sky stands as a symbol of modern Dubai. It is one of the most luxurious hotels globally, offering unparalleled service and experiences synonymous with luxury.
Located on an artificial island about 300 meters from Jumeirah Beach, the hotel was conceptualized by Dubai's Crown Prince in the quest for a world-renowned landmark akin to the Eiffel Tower. Its inception and vision were lofty.
Standing 321 meters tall, the sailboat hotel boasts a uniquely intricate design, making its construction particularly complex. The artificial island had to be constructed low enough to give the impression of the hotel floating on the water, which took three years to accomplish. To mitigate flood risks, perforated concrete blocks were installed in a honeycomb pattern on the bedrock, designed as massive artificial "sponges" to reduce the impact of waves.
To anchor the structure to the artificial island, concrete piles of 230 meters had to be driven into the sand. The building comprises over 70,000 cubic meters of concrete and 9,000 tons of steel. At its peak, the project involved up to 2,000 construction workers. The sail-shaped wings of the hotel, forming a "mast" around a vast central atrium, are clad in a double layer of fabric, spaced 60 centimeters apart to filter out excessive heat and sunlight.
The hotel's atrium is 180 meters tall and is adorned with an opulent interior design. Khuan Chew, a Chinese designer renowned for embellishing numerous high-end hotels worldwide, was commissioned to design the interiors based on the ancient elements of water, fire, wind, and earth.
Water elements are prominent throughout the hotel, with its aquariums and fountains, while the entrance fountain incorporates the element of fire. The entire hotel, adorned with 24,000 square meters of marble and gemstones and 2,000 square meters of gold leaf, symbolizes the element of earth.
Above the building, there's an inverted steel cone serving as a helicopter landing pad, suspended near the roof at a height of 210 meters. In 2005, tennis legends Roger Federer and Andre Agassi played a match here, overlooking the magnificent panorama of the Arabian Gulf and the breathtaking Dubai skyline.
The hotel boasts several uniquely themed restaurants. Al Muntaha, situated on the 27th floor, translates to "The Ultimate" in Arabic, fittingly offering exquisite views and a sumptuous menu. Each dish combines the finest ingredients with innovative styles, showcasing imaginative modern French cuisine.
All 202 suites of the sailboat hotel are extravagantly luxurious, adorned with exquisite décor worldwide, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking comfort and luxury. Guests staying in the Royal Two-Bedroom Suite can enjoy private beach access, personalized experience management, 24-hour concierge service, and savor cuisines from eight distinctive restaurants.
During their stay, They can also enjoy indoor and outdoor swimming pools and complimentary access to the Wild Wadi Waterpark, among other exceptional services.
In the enchanting azure waters of the Arabian Gulf, guests can explore the highly anticipated offshore terrace. Stretching 10,000 square meters from behind the iconic hotel to 100 meters into the Arabian Gulf, it features two charming swimming pools—freshwater and saltwater—a beach with sunbeds, restaurants, and private cabanas with butler service, providing guests with the finest Arabian hospitality.
This terrace was constructed off the coast of Finland and transported to Dubai via sea, showcasing the ingenious design and engineering behind it.
This iconic building in Dubai stands as a symbol of innovation and engineering excellence, as well as the ultimate destination for global travelers to socialize and unwind. When in Dubai, don't forget to visit Jumeirah Beach to glimpse the sailboat hotel's elegance.
With such luxury, can you afford to stay at this hotel?