Shaun Killa, the architect behind Dubai’s most photographed building, discusses his latest project, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, and how sustainable design shapes the future of luxury hospitality

By Jennifer Choo | September 2025

Shaun Killa’s Museum of the Future is a 77-metre-tall torus covered in Arabic calligraphy, situated in Dubai’s financial district. It is perhaps the most photographed building in a city not short of photogenic architecture.

Killa has spent two decades turning Dubai’s grandest ambitions into steel and glass. Born and educated in South Africa, he arrived in the Emirates in 1998 to work on the interiors of Burj Al Arab. By 2015 he had started his own firm, establishing a practice that combines environmental innovation with bold design—the Bahrain World Trade Centre was the first skyscraper to generate its own power through integrated wind turbines.

His latest project, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, brings that approach to luxury hospitality. The hotel, designed as a futuristic superyacht, cuts energy consumption by 40% through self-shading balconies while completing Dubai’s beachfront architectural narrative. In a city where architects compete to build the tallest, fastest, and flashiest, Killa has carved out a reputation for substance beneath the spectacle.

Tatler Homes spoke to him about maritime inspiration, technological innovation, and creating timeless architecture in a fast-moving city.

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab reflects a maritime elegance inspired by superyachts. How did you bring that idea to life in the design?

The starting point was to honour both Dubai’s maritime heritage and the narrative already established along this shoreline. Jumeirah’s beachfront story begins with Madinat Jumeirah, rooted in traditional forms, then transitions through Al Naseem’s modern minimalism, before moving into the sail-shaped Jumeirah Burj Al Arab and the wave-inspired Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is the final chapter in this trilogy, expressed as a futuristic superyacht. Its double-curved forms, sweeping terraces, and fluid lines capture the sensation of a vessel moving out to sea. Positioned between a private marina and an extended beach, the resort embodies Dubai’s seafaring history while redefining the future of luxury hospitality. It’s not just a building; it’s the culmination of a journey that connects past, present, and future in one architectural story.

You’ve used some really advanced 3D modelling and façade technology on Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. How does technology shape your design process from concept to construction?
Technology allowed us to turn ambition into reality. The complex double-curved façade and the 36-metre steel arch framing Jumeirah Burj Al Arab demanded parametric tools, robotics, and CNC fabrication. These systems gave us the precision to achieve fluidity without compromise, ensuring the building performs environmentally as well as aesthetically. For me, technology is never for spectacle; it’s about enhancing experience and performance. It allows intuition and hand sketches to evolve into structures that are timeless, buildable, and enduring.

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab isn’t just a hotel; it’s a whole experience with its spa, multiple pools, and 11 unique restaurants. How did you approach designing a space that feels both luxurious and welcoming, while offering a diverse range of experiences under one roof?

Luxury today is about freedom of choice and moments of discovery. At Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, the guest journey was choreographed like a performance, dramatic arrivals, fluid transitions, and spaces that unfold in contrast. The arch frames Jumeirah Burj Al Arab with a sense of awe, then guests move through a lobby that feels like the bow of a yacht, into terraces, gardens, pools, and dining concepts that shift in atmosphere. Each of the 11 restaurants and bars is distinct, yet they’re bound by a narrative of fluidity and connection to the sea. The aim was to make every experience feel intimate and curated, while still part of a larger voyage.

The Museum of the Future’s iconic void symbolises the unknown. How do you approach embedding deep symbolism into your architecture without compromising functionality?

Symbolism must always serve a purpose. The Museum of the Future’s void is a metaphor for the unknown, but it also defines spatial clarity and ensures daylight penetrates the atrium. We embed meaning into form only when it aligns with performance, experience, and constructability. To me, architecture should never be ornament for its own sake; it must work on multiple levels: technical, symbolic, and human.

I read that your first sketch of the Museum of the Future was done late at night by hand. Can you describe your ideation process and how intuition and technology interact in your work?

At the end of 2014, I was invited to join the international competition for the Museum of the Future. For weeks I explored options, but none captured the ambition set by the UAE Vice President and Prime Minister. One evening, I cleared the page and began again. In a late-night sketch, I captured the torus form, the calligraphy, and even the landscape podium in one gesture. It was a moment of instinct meeting imagination.
From there, intuition gave way to technology. Together with my team, we used advanced parametric tools and optimisation models to refine every detail, from the diagrid structure to the calligraphy and façade. Robotics enabled the complex fabrication, turning what began as a hand-drawn idea into a buildable reality.
For me, design always begins with a sketch, when ideas are at their rawest. But it is technology that tests, evolves, and realises them. The Museum of the Future is a testament to that balance: a vision born from intuition, made possible through the most advanced tools of our time.

Sustainability has been a core theme in your projects, such as the Bahrain World Trade Centre, which features wind turbines. How do you balance pushing the boundaries with making sure your buildings are environmentally responsible?

For me, pushing boundaries and sustainability are inseparable. At Bahrain World Trade Centre, I pioneered integrated turbines; at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab we created self-shading balconies that cut energy demand by 40%, greywater recycling systems, and landscaped roofs to reduce the heat island effect. True innovation means designing with empathy, for place, for people, and for the environment. Luxury should not come at nature’s expense; it should enhance quality of life while minimising impact.

Dubai is renowned for its bold and ambitious architecture. How has working here shaped your approach to design? Has the city influenced what you aim to create?

Dubai has given me the freedom to dream bigger. This city doesn’t just accept ambition, it demands it. But with that comes responsibility, to design icons that endure, not novelties that fade. Dubai has taught me to think on a scale of legacy: to create architecture that captures the spirit of its time while remaining relevant for decades to come. It’s a place where tradition and modernity meet, and that duality shapes everything we design.

You lead a team of young architects at Killa Design. How do you encourage fresh ideas and creativity while keeping your projects consistent and focused?

I believe in creating a studio culture where curiosity thrives. Young designers bring fearless ideas, and I encourage them to sketch, experiment, and question. But creativity is channelled through discipline; we align every idea back to purpose, context, and narrative. That balance between freedom and rigour ensures our projects feel fresh yet cohesive. It’s about nurturing a collective creativity within a strong design ethos.

Dubai is constantly evolving, with new, futuristic buildings emerging continually. How do you create designs that feel timeless in such a fast-moving environment?

Timelessness comes from honesty. A building is timeless when it responds authentically to its context, climate, and culture. At Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, the design grows from the sea and Dubai’s maritime story, ensuring it belongs here rather than chasing trends. Timeless architecture adapts, welcomes, and resonates, it’s as meaningful in fifty years as it is today because it’s crafted with integrity and intent.

Looking back over your career, from early projects like Jumeirah Burj Al Arab to what you’re doing now, how has your design philosophy changed?  Are there any ideas that have stayed with you all along?

When I worked on Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, the focus was on creating icons that defined a city. Over time, my philosophy has evolved towards architecture that not only inspires visually but uplifts people’s lives, connects with nature, and gives back environmentally. Sustainability has always been my true passion, from pioneering integrated wind turbines at the Bahrain World Trade Centre, to embedding energy-saving systems at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, and achieving LEED Platinum certification at the Museum of the Future. For the Museum, sustainability was a driver from the very first sketch: we used passive solar design, low-energy and low-water engineering solutions, recovery strategies, and renewables from an off-site solar farm. More than two-thirds of the building sits below a landscaped podium roof to reduce solar gain and heat island effect.

What hasn’t changed throughout my career is the belief that architecture must be both innovative and responsible; it should evoke emotion, endure in meaning, and serve future generations.

Killa Design’s maritime-influenced seafront resort, nestled between Jumeirah Burj Al Arab and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, completes an iconic waterfront trilogy.

By Rima Alsammarae | July 2025

Emerging from Dubai’s historic shoreline like a  vessel poised for departure, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is not only a new luxury resort, but a bold architectural statement about the future of hospitality design in the city. Designed by Dubai-based Killa Design, the 155,000m² development completes Jumeirah’s iconic waterfront trilogy, nestled between the sculptural form of Jumeirah Burj Al Arab and the sweeping curves of Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is the first Jumeirah property to extend out into the sea, and its architecture draws directly from both Dubai’s maritime heritage and contemporary luxury culture. It is also, says practice founder Shaun Killa, a response to Dubai’s architectural evolution – a product of digital design and construction technologies which extends a ‘narrative’ beginning with the traditional architecture of Jumeirah Al Qasr and Jumeirah Mina Al Salam, and transitioning through the ‘classic’ design of Jumeirah Al Naseem, and the modern era represented by the neighbouring hotels.

‘We were mindful of preserving the view of Jumeirah Burj Al Arab from the beach to the north-east,’ says Killa. ‘That led us to intentionally separate the hotel and residences, creating an open sightline through the site.’

The layout responds to the peninsula’s geometry through a ‘shift’ in the hotel’s massing – a subtle rotation that divides the landward spa and dining zones from the seaward hotel guest rooms.

Killa Design’s approach included a close focus on the guest journey. This is most apparent in the grand arch – a 36m-wide, four-storey-high engineering feat that supports 11 floors of accommodation above. Positioned at the point where the building shifts in plan, and at the end of the approach road along the western side of the promontory, the arched passage through the hotel creates a dramatic arrival sequence, framing views of the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab and immersing guests in a world where architecture and landscape are in constant dialogue.

‘Unlike traditional hotels, where guests are dropped off behind the building,’ says Killa, ‘our design ensures that the moment guests arrive, they are greeted with breathtaking views. The fluted soffit beneath the arch is gently lit at night, creating a warm and inviting ambience.’

From the lobby, a meandering path passes through bars, restaurants and lounges, all designed as distinct yet interconnected environments – a route that Killa likens to moving towards the bow of a yacht. Outdoor terraces, gardens and pools with 270-degree sea views extend the sense of immersion in the marine environment.

Accommodation includes 386 rooms and suites. In each, the architects aimed to foster a sense of indoor-outdoor living with floor-to-ceiling glazing and wide balconies that draw the horizon into the room. (Interior design was by HBA, Avroko and LTW Designworks.) The uppermost floors house four penthouses — each around 650m² — while 82 branded residences and a collection of over-water villas provide private luxury living integrated within the resort.

Design languages across the spaces were developed to respond to specific functions. While the penthouses were designed to be ultra-luxurious with expansive open-plan layouts and wraparound terraces, the apartments feature contemporary minimalism and maritime influences. Private villas, cantilevered over the quay wall of a new marina on the north-eastern side, feature their own pools and uninterrupted sea views.

Perhaps unexpectedly given the opulence of the project, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is underpinned by a robust sustainability strategy that balances performance with luxury. Self-shading terraces are calculated to reduce energy consumption by up to 40 per cent, while landscaped roofs help with insulation, and grey-water recycling supports irrigation across the lush 260,000-plant landscape. Resort policies exclude single-use plastics, while LED lighting and energy recovery systems further minimise its environmental footprint.

‘These measures reflect our commitment to creating architecture that is environmentally conscious without compromising luxury,’ says Killa.

Material selection was fundamental to creating both durability and a contextual character. Natural stone,  including limestone and marble, was used both externally and internally for its textures and ability to weather well in a coastal climate. Lightweight composite materials clad the facade, ensuring resilience against salt-laden winds while maintaining a crisp, contemporary finish.

Externally, landscaping softens the architecture, embedding the resort within a lush, green environment that contrasts with the sleek built forms. Water features and planting zones are integrated throughout the site.

Internally, the nautical narrative continues through the use of wood, intended to evoke the timber decks of yachts. In the lobby, tactile elements such as turquoise velvet seating and wave-patterned rugs subtly echo the movement of the sea. Throughout the interiors, bespoke furniture and handcrafted details draw on the region’s vernacular traditions while maintaining a contemporary aesthetic. The palette includes coral stone, rattan and woven textiles.

‘These elements reflect aspects of the region’s history, such as pearl diving and fishing,’ says Killa. ‘Culturally, we were interested in how we could reference local materials and design traditions in a contemporary way.

‘Materials that reflect the coastal vernacular are layered with more modern finishes to create contrast and balance. It’s not about nostalgia, but about making sure the building feels authentic to where it’s located.’

In a city known for architectural spectacle, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab distinguishes itself through refinement, innovation, and its sensitivity to context – both built and natural. It represents the culmination of Jumeirah’s architectural narrative along the beachfront, but also a bold step into the future of resort design.

‘This type of project embodies the spirit of Dubai,’ says Killa, ‘the city’s entrepreneurial energy, its maritime soul and its vision for luxury hospitality on a global stage.’

Rima Alsammarae is a writer and former editor of Middle East Architect.

Between sea and sky, Shaun Killa’s latest creation completes Jumeirah’s coastal trilogy with sculptural grace and quiet confidence.

By Shehzin Shaikh | June 2025

As my car curved along Jumeirah Beach Road, the sculptural form of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab rose into view, an architectural flourish that gleamed like the bow of a superyacht anchored in Dubai’s coastline.

The resort, nestled between the iconic Burj Al Arab and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, immediately announced itself as more than just a luxury retreat. This was designed with a vision, elegant, futuristic, and connected to its nautical inspiration.

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is the final piece in Jumeirah’s trilogy of oceanfront icons. Designed by Shaun Killa of Killa Design, the 16-storey, 85-metre-high property stretches across 155,000 square metres and redefines what a waterfront resort can be.

Killa, who has worked with Jumeirah for 24 years, beginning with the Burj Al Arab, told me that this was a culmination of a long creative journey. “Over the years, this collaboration has evolved into a true partnership,” he explained. “What sets Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab apart is its role as both, a complement to iconic landmarks and a bold vision for the future of hospitality.”

From the moment I stepped onto the entrance deck, I was immersed in Killa’s masterstroke, a sweeping steel arch that frames the Burj Al Arab in the distance. “Unlike traditional hotels where guests are dropped off behind the building,” Killa said, “our design ensures that the moment guests arrive, they are greeted with a breathtaking view.” In the evening, the arch glows with subtle lighting beneath its fluted soffit, creating an arrival that feels more like boarding a private vessel than entering a hotel.

Inside, the lobby continues the maritime narrative. Its gentle curves and forward movement evoke the sensation of walking toward the bow of a yacht. “This undulating path extends through multiple bars and restaurants, each offering distinct atmospheres,” Killa said, “designed to immerse guests in a variety of sensual and visual experiences.”

The design seamlessly flows between indoor and outdoor spaces. Overlooking a two km shoreline, the resort offers two private beaches and four pools, including an adults-only option and a serene spa pool.

Terraces with sweeping 270-degree ocean views make you feel as if the sea surrounds you entirely, a deliberate effect, said Killa, “This integration of views and experiences is central to our design philosophy.”

Every room and suite, and there are 386 of them, is designed to celebrate this sense of openness. Floor-to-ceiling windows open to generous terraces, while interiors by HBA, Avroko, and LTW blend soft palettes, luxurious textures, and gentle maritime cues.

In the Royal Suite, at 664 square metres, the Arabian Gulf seemed to stretch forever. The Pearl Suite features a 460-square-metre terrace ideal for sunset gatherings. The Ocean Grand Terrace Suite curves like a ship’s prow, giving the sensation of floating above water.

Dining here is not just a meal, it’s a curated experience. The Fore combines four cuisines in one setting: Mediterranean, Indian, Asian Fusion, and Japanese. Mirabelle serves refined French Mediterranean classics, while Iliana, a Greek retreat, offers a private beach and rooftop terrace.

Rialto channels the grandeur of Venice, and Kinugawa brings contemporary Japanese elegance to the poolside. My morning ritual became a visit to the Pierre Hermé Viennoiserie, home to impossibly delicate pastries that lived up to their legendary creator.

But for those seeking restoration, it’s the Talise Spa that truly elevates the luxury. Spanning three floors, it includes a 20-metre indoor wellness pool, chromotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, cryotherapy at –85°C, and a salon by celebrity stylist Limoz Logli. The spa blends science and serenity, offering healing through design and detail.

Residential living at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is no less indulgent. Eighty-two branded residences offer exclusive access to all hotel amenities, while the Marsa Al Arab Marina can berth yachts up to 61 metres. I toured a duplex where the private pool overlooked a moored superyacht, a lifestyle of seamless luxury, sea to sky.

Sustainability is deeply embedded in the architecture. Continuous balconies provide self-shading and reduce cooling loads by up to 40%. Greywater recycling supports lush landscaping that includes over 3,100 palm trees and 260,000 shrubs.

The resort is free of single-use plastics and employs low-energy systems and green roofs to reduce environmental impact. “These measures reflect our commitment to creating architecture that is environmentally conscious without compromising on luxury,” Killa noted. Of course, no visionary project is without challenges.

Killa highlighted the structural complexities of engineering the grand arch, which spans 36 metres and supports nine floors, and the cantilevered quay wall villas hovering over the sea. “These challenges pushed us to redefine possibilities,” he said, “resulting in solutions that are as bold as they are seamless.”

As we wrapped our conversation, I asked Killa how he sees the future of luxury hospitality. He gestured to the sweeping landscape before us, terraces spilling into gardens, pools disappearing into horizon lines. “Guests can expect an experience where architecture, nature and service converge to create something beautiful,” he said. “Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is a resort that redefines hospitality, it’s a place where every detail tells a story.”

And as I looked out across the water, past the iconic Burj Al Arab and into the shimmering dusk, I knew I had just experienced the final chapter of a design trilogy, one that pushes beyond architecture and into art.

The newest addition to the city’s coastal district of landmark hospitality completes a trilogy of iconic Dubai hotels inspired by the sea.

June 2025

Step inside Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Dubai’s new luxury lifestyle destination that mirrors the city’s dynamic spirit.

Along Dubai’s ever-evolving shoreline, a striking composition of architecture emerges: a triad of buildings that narrates the city’s transformation through design and hospitality. The Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, with its willowing sail form, remains a global emblem of opulence and engineering bravado; the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, with its dynamic, wave-like shape, evokes movement and memory; and now, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab completes this ensemble with a sinuous design that anchors Jumeirah’s story of combining contemporary refinement and cultural nuance. It is designed by the Museum of the Future architects, Killa Design.

“While the design of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is inspired by the sleek elegance of superyachts, its soul is undeniably Emirati, with subtle yet meaningful references woven throughout — from the architectural details to the carefully selected materials that echo the beauty of the desert and the sea.” adds Harun Dursun, Managing Director, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab.

“Every guest is welcomed with the warmth, generosity, and joy that are hallmarks of the Jumeirah brand. Whether in the hotel or its residences, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab offers a sense of familiarity and serenity, creating a home away from home in a buzzing city.”

Together, these three landmarks do more than define a skyline and shoreline; they tell the story of a journey. One that spans from the visionary roots of the city’s early ambitions to its current role as a hub of architectural innovation. In dialogue with one another, they form a coastal district that’s both deeply rooted in context yet boldly global in outlook – where form, function and fantasy coalesce into a singular experience of place.

Architect Shaun Killa has created iconic buildings with projects such as the Museum of the Future and the Dubai Opera. His latest work, the “Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab”, builds on this tradition whilst simultaneously breaking with it. In this interview, Killa explains why true luxury is often invisible, how to make a building evoke emotion and why architecture today must offer more than just spectacular pictures for Instagram.

Written by Laura Bähr | May 2025

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab in Dubai: The secrets behind the new luxury hotel

Shaun Killa is one of Middle East’s most influential contemporary architects. He rose to prominence through visionary large-scale projects such as the award-winning “Museum of the Future” in Dubai, a sculptural landmark that uniquely combines technology, poetry, and precision. Killa had previously set standards with iconic designs such as the Dubai Opera and the Bahrain World Trade Center – not only aesthetically but also in terms of sustainability. His latest project, the luxury hotel “Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab,” adds a new dimension to this oeuvre: quieter, more subtle, but no less impressive. In an interview with GQ, the South African-born architect talks about understated luxury, emotional spatial experiences, sketch ideation – and how to design a building that is neither loud nor intrusive, but simply unforgettable.

GQ: Mr. Killa, your new building, the “Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab”, is reminiscent of a superyacht in its design language. When did you know: This is the right design?

Shaun Killa: It was a process of refinement. The briefing of the client was clear: the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab remains the landmark. Our building should complement it, not compete with it. We have developed many variants – some were too bold, others too restrained. Finally, we decided on the one that looked balanced. The Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab does not compete – it brings its own sense of luxury and prestige.

Shaun Killa on the important common thread in a project

So it was also about respecting the existing landmark?

Shaun Killa: Absolutely. From the beginning, it was clear that the view of the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab could not be compromised, that was our first major design decision. The second was thematic: We wanted to embrace the site’s maritime heritage, but in a contemporary way. The building’s lines are inspired by a modern superyacht, luxurious, elegant, and modern.

What can guests expect when they arrive?

Shaun Killa: Not a typical hotel entrance. From the moment you are dropped off, you stand on a direct axis with the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab – that’s dramatic. Inside, the experience changes. We focused on intimacy: smaller spaces, separate pools, relaxation areas – almost like on a private yacht. This is exactly what the ultra-luxury clientele is looking for. Not a huge lobby, but something intimate, quiet, comfortable.

The meaning of true luxury

In an earlier interview, you said the building had to be “restrained and luxurious” – and that true luxury is often unexpected. What is your personal favorite detail about this project? Maybe something you don’t notice right away?

Shaun Killa: I would say the arrival itself. You are dropped off under a large, wing-like arch and have a clear view of the sea, the horizon and the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab. Day or night, the combination of form, lighting and context is something special. It’s subtle, but it creates a powerful emotional impact – and that to me is luxury: not loud gestures, but moments that stick in your memory.

And inside?

Shaun Killa: Here to, we didn’t want a conventional approach. There is no central, monumental lobby. Instead, you move through a series of smaller, intimate spaces. Even the lounge is divided into five or six zones, each for about 20 to 25 people. This creates a sense of comfort. That was important to us. In other hotels everything is designed for grandeur – we wanted the opposite: something quiet and exclusive.

With a great view.

Shaun Killa: Exactly. When you enter the front facing rooms, you have three views simultaneously: the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, across the marina and out to the open sea. It is an almost 720-degree view that gives guests a sense of constant connection with the water. This type of visual layering is rare – and it elevates the experience to a new level.

Accommodation or experience? The hotel industry of the 21st century Century

Does the atmosphere change at night?

Shaun Killa: Yes. We have introduced a subtle LED line that runs along the balconies and gently traces the architecture after sunset. The building is deliberately designed to be sculptural – it shifts, staggers back, interlocks in certain areas. The movement of these lines draws the eye across the form to where the building merges into the landscape. For me, that’s the real highlight: the form becomes even more expressive in the softer light.

How do you start a design – with an idea, a line or a feeling?

Shaun Killa: For me, it usually starts with a feeling. I ask myself: what does this building want to be? Whether it’s the Museum of the Future, the Dubai Opera or a resort – I start by thinking about how it should fit into its context. It is about understanding the relationship to the place, to the city, the people – and then finding a solution that is elegant and timeless.

What does that mean in practice?

Shaun Killa: At the Museum of the Future, we had six weeks. I tried four or five different variations in the first half – and discarded them all. It just didnt feel right. I started from scratch. Sometimes you have to go through that process to find the right answer.

The design secrets of the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab

And with the “Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab”?

Shaun Killa: I thought of the “Trilogy”: the very modern Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, the Jumeirah Beach Hotel – and what comes next? We divided the building to preserve the view of Jumeirah Burj Al Arab from Sunset beach, and then focused on the form. It should have a maritime quality, reminiscent of a superyacht in motion. But also to be majestic – subtle in its architectural language. Often the simplest forms are the most elegant.

Is there a technical detail on the Marsa Al Arab that is particularly clever, but barely visible?

Shaun Killa: Yes, the facade. It is made of GRP (glass reinforced plastic) and has been completely modeled in Rhino 3D. Each geometry went directly into fabrication, allowing us to create continuous, seamless forms with almost invisible joints. This level of refinement is very demanding. Another example is the Quay Wall Villas—the world’s first villas built directly over a rock revetment. Normally, such infrastructure and architecture are separate—we brought them together. This created villas that appear to float.

Do you still work by hand?

Shaun Killa: Yes, I still sketch with pen or pencil, whatever’s available. (laughs) When I draw, I work on how a building behaves in its environment. It’s intuitive. Drawing allows me to quickly test ideas without immediately falling into technical specifications. On the computer, you immediately get to scale and detail, sketching keeps it open, conceptual.

Are there rituals that you can no longer do without?

Shaun Killa: Absolutely. I visit the construction site as often as possible. You notice things on site that you don’t see in a drawing. I also ask a lot of questions, not just about functions or numbers, but about emotional goals. What do I want people to feel here? What memories do I want them to take away? I try to understand everything from the perspective of the client, the guests and the building itself.

Do you prefer to work alone or in a team?

Shaun Killa: It depends. I like to sketch on my own to clarify the core idea, but I often pitch my ideas to the team. We have over 100 talented designers, and honestly, it often becomes a bit of a design competition, in the best sense. (laughs) They challenge each other, and challenge me too. That energy helps the work evolve.

Sustainability as a central topic

With all the external influences – from the customer to the technology – do you have a personal guiding principle that you adhere to?

Shaun Killa: Yes, I always stick to the core idea. Over the course of a project, it’s easy to lose the original thought. But if you maintain that common thread, from the initial design to the final detail, the architecture becomes coherent and can become truly iconic. And sustainability is part of the process from the very beginning, through orientation, passive solar control , energy recovery, and renewable energy. In some projects, we’ve achieved complete solar operation. At Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, the space constraints didn’t allow for that, but we incorporated all feasible sustainable elements.

Sustainability is currently a central topic in architecture. Do you think the term is sometimes overused?

Shaun Killa: Yes, definitely. It’s often mentioned, but not always backed up with substance. To achieve true sustainability, you have to work through the details, materials, systems, efficiency. Only then can you convince clients or budget planners. If you don’t know exactly what you’re talking about, you’ll quickly be outvoted. We have real experience with net-zero projects, and this benefits even those projects where complete sustainability isn’t feasible.

Was there a detail in this project that could have been implemented better without regulations?

Shaun Killa: Not really. We always work within technical and regulatory frameworks and integrate them into the design from the very beginning. Even a project like the Museum of the Future , which looks almost otherworldly, meets all regulations regarding fire safety and escape routes. You work within the rules, and still create something extraordinary. That’s what I call solution-oriented design.

You have been in business for decades – how have the expectations of architecture changed?

Shaun Killa: The hospitality industry has completely changed. Twenty years ago, a resort was primarily about function, a place to stay and eat. Today, people are looking for an experience. They want something emotional, something they can share. Instagram has changed that, many guests find a hotel through pictures. And once they’re there, they’re looking for moments. A resort today needs to resonate visually and emotionally.

The Instagram-driven design approach of modern architecture

As an architect, how do you deal with this Instagram-driven design approach?

Shaun Killa: We embrace it. In our studio, we call them “irresistible, Instagrammable moments” (laughs). Every project should have seven to ten such moments, not because they’re good for social media , but because they evoke a strong emotional response. When someone feels something when they walk into a room, they want to capture, preserve, and share that moment and when it’s shared, others want to experience it for themselves.

And that works?

Shaun Killa: Yes, absolutely. This resort hasn’t even officially opened yet , and yet occupancy is already remarkably high. This has been achieved almost entirely through word of mouth and social media. Several well-known influencers have already visited—not by invitation, but because they wanted to. It’s about ensuring that every guest, no matter who they are, has a truly special experience. Something unforgettable.

Does it sometimes bother you as an architect that today it often seems to be just about photos?

Shaun Killa: That’s simply the direction the world is heading. People express themselves visually. If someone is moved by a space and wants to share that, that’s a good thing. As designers, it’s our job to respond to that. To create spaces that touch people and are memorable—whether someone takes a photo or not.

KILLA DESIGN COMPLETES JUMEIRAH MARSA AL ARAB

By Ravail Khan | March 2025

Completing a trilogy of nautical hotels, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab opens its doors along Dubai’s shoreline. The new resort by Killa Design is positioned between the iconic sail-shaped Burj Al Arab and the wave-inspired Jumeirah Beach Hotel, drawing inspiration from the sleek contours of superyachts to continue this symbolic narrative. Its futuristic and sculptural form is defined by sweeping curves, from its sinuous silhouette to its wraparound terraces, that together evoke a sense of rhythm and movement that engages with the fluidity of the Arabian Gulf.

Led by Shaun Killa, the architect behind Dubai’s Museum of the Future, one of the resort’s defining architectural features is its grand, 36-meter-wide steel arch which frames views of the Burj Al Arab and sets the tone for the experiential journey. The circulation flows like the deck of a floating vessel, leading through a series of lounges, bars, and dining venues, ahead to the 386 rooms and 82 serviced residences that each speak to the timeless aesthetics of 1960s Riva yachts. Key sustainability initiatives are also integrated throughout, taking into consideration the structure’s environmental impact and the living experience. Self-shading terraces are utilized to reduce energy consumption by up to 40%, while a graywater recycling system effectively supports irrigation and landscaping. Meanwhile over 3,100 palms and 260,000 shrubs have been planted throughout the exterior spaces, maintaining a connection with nature.

THE NAUTICAL-INSPIRED RESORT LOOKS TO THE FLUIDITY OF 1960S YACHTS

With interiors completed in collaboration with HBA, AvroKO, and LTW Designworks, each guest room of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab features a private terrace of at least 22 square meters, extending the living space into the landscape. The resort’s Presidential, Royal, and Pearl Suites feature layouts designed to feel like curated private residences rather than traditional hotel accommodations, with the Royal Suite appearing to float above the water. Its expansive 310-square-meter terrace and plunge pool offer uninterrupted ocean views, while the Pear Suite includes a wraparound terrace and a private kitchen that can host up to 80 guests.

The private residences, ranging in size from 79 to 229 square meters, each also enjoy access to exclusive pools, fitness facilities, and spa services. Dubai-based studio Killa Design has designed these units as fully serviced homes, blending contemporary and bespoke artisanal details, particularly highlighted by a central atrium installation in the public space featuring over 1,500 hand-blown shell-shaped crystals from the Czech Republic’s crystal valley.

The resort’s gastronomic offerings include eleven dining venues, including a first-of-its-kind restaurant concept that transforms throughout the day, and a patisserie by celebrated pastry chef Pierre Hermé. Further elevating the ultra-luxury hospitality experience with opportunities for rejuvenation and retreat, Killa Design weaves natural light, panoramic Gulf views, and private terraces through the three floors of the TALISE Spa. The space’s design follows three guiding principles — Performance, Intention, and Empowerment — translated into therapies fusing advanced technology with holistic treatments. A 20-meter indoor pool, a dedicated women’s gym, and suites complete the spa’s immersive healing environment.

IN DIALOGUE WITH THE WATERFRONT LANDSCAPE AND ARCHITECTURE

The resort’s design reflects a broader architectural narrative that has continued to take shape along Dubai’s coastline over the years. ‘The site played a pivotal role in shaping the vision. We wanted to create a resort that responds not just to its immediate surroundings but the entire evolution of Jumeirah beachfront hospitality offerings,’ share the architects.

Marking a progression through time, this begins with tracing the traditional aesthetics of the neighboring Madinat Jumeirah’s Al Qasr and Mina Al Salam — together shaped like an Arabian citadel — transitioning through the contemporary expressions of Jumeirah Al Naseem which dot the shoreline. Killa Design envisions the final chapter as a futuristic form, establishing Marsa Al Arab resort as both a counterpoint and a complement to its neighbors, as well as a visual extension to the architectural symbolism of Burj Al Arab and the waters that tie the hotels together.

The long-awaited Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is the final piece in Jumeirah’s nautical trilogy, joining the wave-shaped Jumeirah Beach Hotel and sail-shaped Jumeirah Burj Al Arab on the city’s most desirable stretch of beach.

By Selina Denman | March 2025

Why book?

This is the newest place to see and be seen in Dubai. Emerging from the ocean like a futuristic superyacht coming into dock, the long-awaited Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is the final piece in Jumeirah’s nautical trilogy, joining the wave-shaped Jumeirah Beach Hotel and sail-shaped Jumeirah Burj Al Arab on the city’s most desirable stretch of beach.

Set the scene

Marsa Al Arab extends 470 metres out to sea, on reclaimed land that runs alongside the famed Burj Al Arab, offering a new sidelong perspective on Dubai’s most famous landmark. While Burj Al Arab is all rigid lines and uncompromising verticality, Marsa Al Arab is feminine, sinuous and full of surprises.

Architect Shaun Killa was involved in the original design of the Burj more than 25 years ago, and is responsible for a number of other landmark projects in the region, including Dubai’s Museum of the Future and the new Shebara at Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea. For Marsa Al Arab, Killa took his cues from the world’s most luxurious yachts, creating a striking silhouette of sweeping curves and dramatic drop-offs.

My Marsa experience starts at my front door, where I am picked up in a dark green, custom-designed Bentley Flying Spur. For those hoping to skip the traffic altogether, yacht transfers from Dubai International Airport are available to guests in certain room categories. This is a property that aims to wow from the offset: we pull up alongside a dancing fountain under a sweeping arch that frames the Burj Al Arab (a scene Killa says he would love to one day see in a James Bond film). In the hotel’s entrance, a dynamic aerial glass sculpture mimics the movement of a sea breeze; a deep blue 3D-printed ceramic wall nods to the ocean; and 3D-printed wood panels capture the sandy hues of the desert behind discreetly positioned check-in desks.

In spite of the property’s size – 300 rooms, 86 suites and 82 serviced residences – there’s been a concerted effort to make it feel intimate and exclusive. The lobby is divided into pockets, half hidden by mashrabiya screens, centred around a charming viennoiserie by renowned chef Pierre Hermé, where the rows of pretty pastries look almost too good to eat. A custom-created scent lingers in the air – top notes of black pepper and clove; undertones of cedar, sea salt, patchouli and marine steam. The expansive grounds have a Bali-inspired vibe: thousands of trees and plants – oil palms, ficuses, Japanese saigon, olive and lemongrass – hug meandering paths, thoughtfully appointed terraces and the resort’s four outdoor swimming pools, which include an adults-only pool at Kinugawa and one reserved for suite guests at Iliana Pool Club.

There are seamless nods to contemporary Emirati and Arab culture, from lobby lounge menus designed by multidisciplinary artist Andre Mcheileh to custom-made tableware by Lebanese jewellery designer Nadine Kanso. As part of the hotel’s cultural immersion program, I spend a morning learning how to paint with famed Emirati fashion designer and artist Feryal Al Bastaki, an experience that proves almost as good for my soul as my morning in the spa.

The backstory

Homegrown hospitality brand Jumeirah operates some of the UAE’s most iconic properties, including Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary, Jumeirah Emirates Towers and Jumeirah Mina A Salam, as well as landmark hotels around the world, from London and Capri to the Maldives and Mallorca. It recently made its debut in Africa, with the launch of Jumeirah Thanda Island and Jumeirah Thanda Safari.

The rooms

Rooms at Marsa Al Arab are inspired by Italy’s vintage Riva boats, with understated nautical themes and terraces that look out either over Burj Al Arab, or the hotel’s marina and the sweeping curve of Kite Beach beyond. Amenities are by Votary and celebrity hair stylist Rossano Ferretti, and all rooms are equipped with Dyson hairdryers.

I stay in the royal suite, an enormous space on the hotel’s 12th floor that offers some of the best views in Dubai from its 310-square-metre terrace, dominated by a raised plunge pool that looks out to sea. The Jacuzzi in my marble-clad bathroom is almost as big, facing floor-to-ceiling windows that offer dramatic headlong views of the Burj. There’s a private gym, spa treatment room, dining table for 10, fully-stocked bar and living area lined with plush sofas. If I could move in, I would.

Food and drink

On opening night, Marsa’s 15 restaurants and bars are already buzzing, a sign of the pent-up anticipation this opening has generated. This is a city that offers endless choice when it comes to dining, but there’s plenty here to make Marsa a firm favourite.

The hotel has, thankfully, sounded the death knell for the soulless all-day dining restaurant and instead serves up The Fore, dubbed Dubai’s first “transformative dining space”. Four distinct restaurants – the Japanese Umi Kei, inspired by the art of kintsugi; the Asian fusion Madame Li; Mirabelle, a delightful Mediterranean brasserie; and The Bombay Club, curated by famed Indian chef Manav Tuli – are, come morning, transformed through nifty panels and hidden walls into a cohesive venue that serves one of the best breakfasts in Dubai. An a la carte menu offers specialties such as black truffle scrambled eggs, lobster Benedict, Turkish-inspired menemen and a goat’s cheese phyllo pie, but I find myself drawn repeatedly to the feuillette station, where delicate puff pastries are stuffed with fillings ranging from veal to heirloom tomatoes and avocado. There’s a room dedicated to healthier fare, including fresh fruits, granolas and six variations of ice tea, and counters offering a curated selection of dishes from each of The Fore’s restaurants, from a dosa station at Bombay Club to sushi and maki rolls at Umi Kei.

Elsewhere, Rialto offers Italian classics done just right and the Mykonos-inspired Iliana serves up Greek fare on a sun-kissed terrace by the edge of the sea.

The spa

Jumeirah’s signature spa offering, Talise, has been honed to perfection here – set across three floors, with a women’s only section, 13 treatment rooms, a 20-metre indoor pool and a remedy suite that offers an iDome, hyperbaric oxygen chamber and cryotherapy, among other facilities. The spa has exclusive partnerships with EviDenS de Beauté, Swissline and Ground Wellbeing for its skincare treatments, and relaxation rooms come with cosy terraces and a selection of books covering everything from menopause to daily mantras.

I start my morning with 25 minutes in the iDome, basking in far infrared rays for a full body detox, before a 90-minute sleep massage that begins with me picking out a crystal and an affirmation card encouraging me to “embrace the soothing power of silence”. From mini cactus bowls placed under massage beds to rose quartz eye masks, it’s all the thoughtful little details that really set this spa apart.

The area

Marsa Al Arab’s setting in Jumeirah, midway between old and new Dubai, makes it the perfect jumping off point for exploring the city. It sits on a prime stretch of beach that serves a number of Jumeirah’s other properties, and Marsa guests are free to roam the bay at will. In the opposite direction, there’s a 14-kilometre walking and running track that hugs the coastline and is perfect for sunset strolls. One side of the hotel is flanked by the new D Marin Marsa Al Arab Marina, a pedestrian strip of homegrown restaurants and cafes that look out over the superyachts docked at Marsa’s marina.

The service

Flawless, from start to finish. Staff at the hotel hail from 99 different countries, a fitting reflection of what makes Dubai so unique as a destination. You can expect vociferous Italian waiters at Rialto, exuberant Indian chefs at The Bombay Club and a burly Greek sommelier at Iliana.

All suites come with a dedicated butler; mine is the unendingly charming and efficient Zahra. Marsa’s butlers are trained by the British Butler Academy, but there’s no stuffiness here. Every night I return to my room to find handwritten, often hilarious, notes left by Zahra, alongside thoughtful gifts, from a Marsa-branded toiletries bag with my initials on it, to a printout of Jeanne Coulon’s short story, Bahri and the Pearl. That’s in addition to a bathrobe, slippers and pillow cases with my initials on them.

For families

Kids will have a ball exploring Marsa’s sprawling grounds, but for more contained adventures, there’s the dedicated Family Club for guests aged three to 10.

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab has launched on Jumeirah Beach, featuring a design inspired by superyachts, eleven diverse dining experiences and a high-tech spa.

By Olivia Palamountain | March 2025

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is a superyacht-inspired property that completes the luxury brand’s nautical trilogy (alongside the wave-shaped Jumeirah Beach Hotel and the iconic sail-shaped Jumeirah Burj Al Arab).

Designed by architect Shaun Killa, the property draws inspiration from “the majesty of the world’s finest yachts,” featuring 386 elegantly designed rooms and suites, 82 serviced residences and an 82-berth superyacht marina.

The interiors are inspired by the hue of golden hour, incorporating marble-clad surfaces, organic wood, soft-edged seating, handcrafted silk carpets, hand-blown crystal lights and textured fabrics.

Expansive windows throughout the property offer views of the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, the Arabian Gulf, and the surrounding landscapes, which include four outdoor pools.

The resort presents what it describes as “an extraordinary gastronomic journey” with 11 curated dining experiences and four destination bars. Among them is The Fore, a new-to-Dubai concept that transforms throughout the day, featuring four destination restaurants and a central bar.

Other culinary highlights include Iliana, a Greek Mediterranean pool club and rooftop bar; Kinugawa, which combines Japanese and French cuisine; and The Bombay Club, a celebration of Indian cuisine curated by Michelin-starred Chef Manav Tuli.

Wellness is central to the resort’s offering, with the state-of-the-art TALISE Spa spanning three floors. The spa is guided by three foundational pillars: Performance, Intention and Empower.

Advanced treatments are available in the Remedy Suite, featuring four technology-driven therapies including cryotherapy, ChromoSpace light treatments, iDome infra-red triple detox and a hyperbaric oxygen chamber.

Bespoke treatments and holistic therapies are offered in 13 treatment suites, each with a private terrace overlooking the Gulf. Facilities include a 20-metre indoor pool and fully equipped fitness studio.

Families are catered for with a dedicated Family Club for guests aged 3 to ten, designed around connection and discovery. The club applies the techniques of “Jumeirah Circle”, described as “a fun educational concept for a meaningful family experience.”

The resort also emphasises cultural connections through a curated programme of exclusive activities. Partnerships with local and international artists, galleries, and museums celebrate Dubai’s cultural narrative, while an artist in residence programme provides platforms for chefs and creatives.

Beyond the hotel itself, the Marsa Al Arab Marina and Promenade offers a waterfront social hub featuring “serene vistas, homegrown dining concepts, exclusive retail stores and sophisticated suites” for both locals and visitors.