The One Za’abeel Complex features two towers standing at 305 m and 235 m, connected by a unique 230 m horizontal bridge.
The newly constructed One Za’abeel in Dubai, UAE, designed by the Japanese firm Nikken Sekkei, boasts the world’s longest cantilever structure, measuring approximately 66 m, as reported by Design Boom on February 1. A cantilever is a long horizontal structure fixed at only one end to a vertical column.
The One Za’abeel complex consists of two towers and a horizontal bridge. (Photo: Dezeen).
One Za’abeel comprises two skyscrapers, The Tower and The Residences, linked by a closed horizontal bridge known as The Link. Situated at the gateway to Dubai’s central financial district, the project serves as a landmark for travelers arriving from Dubai International Airport. The development aims to create a vibrant community catering to residents and global visitors, featuring a variety of dining options, retail shops, office spaces, urban hotels, green areas, city parks, playgrounds, and even a swimming pool.
The Link, suspended at a height of 100 m, features a 230 m observation deck stretching along the east-west axis between the two towers. Constructed using a tubular steel system arranged in a diamond-shaped grid on all four sides, The Link ensures structural stability while providing a spacious interior without columns.
The construction process involved lifting the first segment of The Link, weighing approximately 8,500 tons, into position over 12 days. This is one of the heaviest structures ever lifted in the region. The remaining 900-ton cantilever section was raised and attached within 4 days. Positioned between the two towers, The Link enhances safety and reduces sway caused by wind—a common issue in high-rise buildings.
One Za’abeel encompasses 530,000 m2 of complex space, with 12,000 m2 designated for retail, 26,000 m2 for office space, in addition to luxury residential areas. The Tower stands at 305 m, while the second building, The Residences, reaches 235 m. The exterior of the structure features high transparency Low-E glass with excellent sun-blocking performance.
“One Za’abeel is now the first cluster of buildings that welcomes visitors as they travel from the airport to the city center and will be the last structure they see before departure. We aim to create an elegant building that represents the spirit of Dubai while serving as an impressive gateway to the city,” stated Kokona Nakamura, chief architect at Nikken Sekkei.
