In this special edition of Arabian Business, we present some of the leading figures who are making a difference in the design and architecture scene in the region and beyond.

August 2023

Architectural marvels of the Middle East

Burj Khalifa: Standing tall at 828 metres, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai is the tallest building globally, an engineering feat that has garnered international acclaim and transformed the city’s skyline.

The Museum of Islamic Art: Designed by I.M. Pei, this architectural gem in Doha showcases a stunning blend of traditional Islamic motifs and modern design principles, becoming a cultural landmark in the region.

King Abdullah Financial District: This ambitious project in Riyadh is an urban financial centre with avant-garde architectural designs that reflect the nation’s aspiration to become a global financial hub.

Opportunities for the future

Green building initiatives: Emphasising sustainable design and green building practices can help address environmental challenges and reduce the ecological footprint of new developments.

Integration of technology: Adopting building information modelling (BIM) and other advanced technologies can improve design efficiency, collaboration, and project management in the architecture industry.

Preserving heritage: While embracing modernity, the region must also preserve its rich architectural heritage by renovating historic structures and incorporating traditional elements in new designs.

Name: Shaun Killa
Designation: Design partner
Company: Killa Design
Country: UAE

With an extensive portfolio spanning over 25 years, Killa’s philosophy revolves around crafting innovative, low-carbon sustainable edifices that challenge architectural paradigms, resulting in iconic projects like the Dubai Opera House, the Almas Tower, and the Bahrain World Trade Centre, a pioneering integration of wind turbines on a large-scale building.

He has gained recognition for his distinctive approach to architecture and with the creation of environmentally conscious and cutting-edge projects, places a strong emphasis on sustainability that continuously pushes the boundaries of conventional design.

Notable projects

Established in 2015 in Dubai, Killa Design, under the guidance of visionary architect Killa, has been actively involved in several notable projects that have garnered critical acclaim in the architectural world. These include the awe-inspiring designs for the Museum of the Future, the Address Beach Resort, W Hotel Namaste, Vida Dubai Marina & Yacht Club, Marsa Al Arab, Sheybarah Island, Aykon Twin Towers, and the ground-breaking Office of the Future, the world’s first occupied 3D-printed building.

Presently, Killa Design is immersed in the construction of exciting projects such as the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Hotel in Dubai, the Sheybarah Resort for the Red Sea Development in KSA, as well as the Palm Residence and the Cavalli Residential Towers.

Killa’s portfolio epitomises a seamless amalgamation of avant-garde design and a profound consciousness for environmental stewardship. By seamlessly integrating sustainable principles into his projects, he establishes an elevated standard for the industry, demonstrating the transformative potential of environmentally conscious structures that elevate the urban landscape.

The integration of sustainability

Killa also serves as a keynote speaker at global conferences where he inspires architects and developers to challenge the status quo and embrace sustainable practices. His focus lies in the significance of sustainable buildings and masterplans, aiming to enhance the urban habitat, improve the lives of its inhabitants, and aggressively reduce carbon emissions from the built environment. His influential presence on the global stage drives positive change in the architectural industry, advocating for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

Red Sea project unveils progress on Sheybarah Island.

Written by Myrto Katsikopoulou | August 2023

Following the news of the Shura Island construction progress in Saudi Arabia, the updates on the Red Sea Projectcontinue. Recently released footage by the developer showcases Sheybarah Island, where both overwater and inland villas are taking shape. Designed by Killa Design, the architecture firm led by Shaun Killa, these structures emerge as floating orbs that complement the horizon with their reflective mirror surfaces. Meanwhile, the inland structures draw inspiration from the mesmerizing sand dunes.

‘Now, we are at the peak of the construction: we’ve already installed 26 villas,’ reveals Ahmed Alrediny, Senior Project Specialist at Red Sea Global. ‘Seeing a project like Sheybarah here in Saudi Arabia is something to feel proud of. I’m super excited to see the project come to reality,’ he adds.

OVERWATER AND INLAND VILLAS BY KILLA DESIGN

The team at Red Sea Global (find more here) describes the project at Sheybarah Island as ‘something that has never been built before’.  They have enlisted Dubai-based Killa Design (find more here) to develop the accommodation units for what they consider to be one of their most ambitious islands. The villas take shape as futuristic steel orbs, floating above the water’s surface, reflecting the sea, sky, and reef below. The design takes its cues from the island’s natural surroundings, particularly the corals, giving rise to the circular effect. This circular motif serves as a symbol for unity, integration, and wholeness. On the other hand, the inland villas are designed to be reminiscent of the sweeping desert sand dunes, thoughtfully situated to provide guests with a sense of privacy.

‘These villas are a prime example of how Red Sea Global enhances, preserves, and looks after the environment,’shares Ahmad Ismail Executive Director at Red Sea Global. In a recently revealed video, Ismail explains that the unique ‘orb’ structures are manufactured off-site in the United Arab Emirates, offering a customized solution. The villas are transported from the factory via carriers on the sea, and then carefully offloaded onto the installation board. This meticulous approach ensures that the villas can be placed on top of the water without causing any disruption to the surrounding area and the delicate nature of the environment. Given their substantial weight of around 120 tons, every step of the process requires utmost care and precision to ensure the safety of both the structures and the environment around them.

image: screenshot, Six Years of Progress at The Red Sea, courtesy Red Sea Global

Construction Week Middle East unveils its biggest issue of the year, the 14^th annual Power 100 list.

May 2023 

Marking the second year since its redesign to focus on independent stakeholder segment, this year’s list was ranked based on an even more defined set of criteria.

The Power 100 ranking is divided into six sub-lists, namely the Top 25 Contractors, Top 25 Developers, Top 15 Consultants, Top 15 Sub-contractors, Top 10 Designers & Architects, and Top 10 Lawyers. These sub-lists collectively form the Power 100 ranking. Each sub-list showcases the most influential individuals within their respective industries, ranked in ascending order.

Shaun Killa

Shaun Killa, a Design Partner at Killa Design, has gained recognition for his distinctive approach to architecture, placing a strong emphasis on sustainability and pushing the boundaries of conventional design.

With an impressive track record spanning over 25 years, Killa is an acclaimed architect who prioritises design excellence. His philosophy revolves around the creation of innovative, low-carbon sustainable buildings that defy architectural norms, resulting in the development of iconic projects such as the Almas Tower, Dubai Opera House, and the Bahrain World Trade Centre—the first-ever integration of wind turbines on a large-scale building.

Established in Dubai in 2015, Killa Design has been involved in several notable projects, including the critically acclaimed designs for the Museum of the Future, the Address Beach Resort, W Hotel Namaste, Vida Dubai Marina & Yacht Club, Marsa Al Arab, Sheybarah Island, Aykon Twin Towers, and the Office of the Future—the world’s first occupied 3D-printed building. Presently, Killa is actively engaged in the construction of exciting projects such as the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Hotel in Dubai, Sheybarah Resort for the Red Sea Development in Saudi Arabia, Palm Residence, Cavalli Residential Towers, and others.

Additionally, Killa also assumes the role of a keynote speaker at various global conferences, where he inspires architects and developers to challenge the status quo. His speeches focus on the significance of sustainable buildings and masterplans, aiming to enhance the urban habitat, improve the lives of its inhabitants, and aggressively reduce carbon emissions from the built environment.

Through his remarkable career, Killa has established himself as a visionary architect, renowned for his sustainable designs and unwavering commitment to pushing architectural boundaries. His works continue to leave a lasting impact on the industry, inspiring professionals worldwide to embrace sustainability and innovation in their own practices.

The ranking process relies on several criteria. These include the overall value of projects completed in the past 12 months, the value of new projects secured within the same period, achievements, and successes during that timeframe, as well as initiatives undertaken by organisations for the well-being of their employees and society.

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is part of a trilogy with the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Written by Josh Corder | May 2023

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is a highly anticipated hotel that is set to open in 2023, marking a new chapter for Jumeirah Group.

Here’s everything you need to know.

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab’s design

The hotel’s design draws inspiration from a superyacht, adding to the iconic skyline of Dubai alongside the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Together, these three landmarks represent the emirate’s progression, with their wave shape, sailboat, and superyacht designs symbolising luxury and innovation.

The architectural design of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is the work of Shaun Killa. The goal was to create an extraordinary level of supreme luxury for affluent travellers. The hotel’s ergonomic superyacht design has been meticulously crafted to enhance the guest journey and seamlessly connect them to unique experiences throughout the resort.

Facilities at the hotel

The hotel will offer a total of 387 rooms and suites, including four penthouses and 82 luxury hotel apartment suites, all set amidst beautifully landscaped private gardens. Guests can indulge in wellness areas and choose from a remarkable selection of 10 restaurants. Jumeirah describes this property as its “statement property,” representing a new epoch for the group. The restaurants will feature a social-led concept, with an impressive portfolio of international chefs offering diverse culinary experiences.

The manager

Overseeing all aspects of the luxury lifestyle resort is Harun Dursun, the managing director of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. With over 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality and a background working with exclusive ultra-luxury destinations, Dursun brings valuable expertise to his role. His responsibilities include managing the architecturally designed hotel, the superyacht marina, residences, and an array of dining and lifestyle experiences. Dursun aims to set new standards for ultra-luxury hospitality and deliver truly unforgettable guest experiences.

Record-breaking residences

The record-breaking sale of one of the four penthouses at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab has made headlines in Dubai. The penthouse sold for AED420 million (US$114 million), making it the most expensive apartment ever sold in the city. Spanning an impressive 24,628 square feet, the penthouse features a private pool, dedicated lobby, and two private lifts. Luxhabitat Sotheby’s International Realty facilitated the sale, solidifying its position as the agency responsible for the most expensive apartment transaction in Dubai. The penthouse offers breathtaking 360-degree ocean views, including vistas of the iconic Burj Al Arab. Residents will also enjoy the convenience of being in close proximity to the superyacht marina.

Museum of the Future Included in Ten Architecturally Significant Museums Designed by Famous Studios

Written by Nat Barker | May 2023

To mark International Museum Day, we’ve selected 10 museums from the Dezeen archive that were designed by famous architects or are otherwise architecturally significant.

Ten museums from across the globe, including a zigzagging museum in Berlin and a tree-canopy-like museum in Budapest, are among the buildings in this roundup to mark International Museum Day on 18 May.

Museum of the Future, UAE, by Killa Design

This ring-shaped building in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, was declared “the most beautiful building in the world” by the emirate’s ruler, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Created by local studio Killa Design, it contains exhibits dedicated to the future and workshops for testing emerging technology.

Find out more about the Museum of the Future ›

Designed by the same architect behind the city’s Museum of the Future, the five-star resort will be a ‘new expression of ultra-luxury hospitality’

Written by Hayley Skirka | May 2023

In Dubai, five-star hotels are somewhat run of the mill, but there’s one area of the city that’s been synonymous with luxury resorts for longer than most.

Jumeirah on the city’s coastline has been welcoming well-heeled visitors since 1997, when Jumeirah Beach Hotel — the flagship property for home-grown Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts group — opened as one of the city’s first modern resorts.

Two years later, Burj Al Arab opened its well-documented doors less than a kilometre away and now, about 24 years since the world’s first so-called “seven-star” hotel welcomed guests, Jumeirah’s oceanic trilogy is almost complete.

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is expected to have its soft launch before the end of the year, said Katerina Giannouka, chief executive of Jumeirah Group at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai.

Old-timers in Dubai will recognise the location of the yacht-shaped hotel as the same plot where the popular 360˚at Jumeirah Beach Hotel used to stand. Located on Dubai’s largest private beach, the hotel is set to be a “new expression of hospitality in Dubai,” said Giannouka.

“Marsa Al Arab will be a phenomenal hotel and experience. We have very carefully selected the restaurants that we will be opening as part of it, with a mix of different cuisines and featured chefs. There will be hotel dining, as well as outlets on the Marsa Pier — which is open to the public … and the views from each room mean this is really going to be an exceptional hotel,” added the recently appointed chief executive.

Originally scheduled to open in 2021, the project was delayed by the pandemic, but is set to open its doors soon. More details about what travellers can expect at the luxury hotel will be revealed in the coming months. Until then, here’s everything we know about the newest Jumeirah hotel.

Where is Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab?

The five-star property is located on a peninsula jutting into the Arabian Gulf, opposite the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Jumeirah Beach. Burj Al Arab is situated to the right of the superyacht-shaped Marsa Al Arab.

Will the hotel replace Jumeirah Beach Hotel or the Burj Al Arab?

“Each hotel has a different positioning and attracts a slightly different profile of guests,” said Giannouka.

“The Burj Al Arab is extremely private on its own island and inaccessibility is almost its key feature, but Marsa [Al Arab] on the other hand is much more open and can be accessed from both sides. And then Jumeirah Beach Hotel is our flagship and has a strong family focus, so each property is slightly different.”

The Jumeirah Beach Hotel has recently been renovated and its possible that once Marsa Al Arab opens, the Burj Al Arab may undergo a similar renovation.

“We don’t have any plans at this point to close it or renovate it on that deeper level. But at some point, I can imagine that there will be a necessity to do some of the deeper renovation work and maintenance that we can’t do today,” said Giannouka.

Who designed Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab?

Designed by architect Shaun Killa, the same man who designed Dubai’s Museum of the Future, the resort is inspired by the glamour and craftsmanship of the world’s superyachts. Its external structure resembles that of a mega yacht perched on the coastline of Dubai, with tiered levels forming the bow.

How many rooms will the hotel have and what will they be like?

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab will have 303 sea-facing rooms and 84 suites all of which come with balconies. More than 40 per cent of the hotel’s rooms have terrace space bigger than 22 square metres.

Designed to maximise seafront real estate, all rooms have four-metre-high ceilings and many rooms feature 11-metre-wide floor-to-ceiling balcony windows offering guests views of the Burj Al Arab and the city’s sparkling coastline.

French designer Tristan Auer, in association with Wilson Associates, has designed the interiors which exude sophistication with a hint of nautical inspiration. Unique to the resort are a collection of premium suites that follow the contours of the property, each with retractable floor-to-ceiling glass walls, framing views of the Burj Al Arab and the resort’s new superyacht marina.

What facilities will Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab have?

The hotel will have five private swimming pools and two exclusive beaches, as well as a premium yacht club and marina, with 82 berths. There will also be nine oceanfront private villas.

A luxury spa is split over three levels — one of which is dedicated solely to women — with 13 treatment rooms, each with its own private terrace. The hotel’s fitness suite will have state-of-the-art equipment, a 20-metre pool, sauna, steam room and mixed hammam.

What restaurants and bars are opening at the luxury resort?

Details about the restaurant brands and chefs heading to Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab’s culinary outposts are being kept tightly under wraps, but we do know that there will be 10 dining outlets and nine bars at the resort.

Restaurants will span a variety of cuisines including a Mykonos-inspired Mediterranean restaurant, pan-Asian, Japanese and Indian eateries.

Adjacent to the spa will be a Californian-inspired restaurant with sea views. A Venetian-style restaurant and bar will serve fine Italian cuisine and in the Marsa Al Arab residences, a club-style restaurant will evoke American yacht club vibes.

Will Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab be open to non-hotel guests?

Visitors not staying in the hotel will be welcome to walk along the resort’s newly created Marsa Pier, which will be dotted with more bars and restaurants, as well as accessing in-house hotel restaurants and bars.

When will Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab open to guests?

At the moment, Jumeirah is hoping to launch the hotel in late 2023. However, it’s possible that the official hotel opening might not take place until early next year.

The London-based property developer will jointly develop the three towers at One Central.

Written by Colin Foreman | April 2023

Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and UK-based Candy Capital have formed a joint venture to develop three towers in the One Central commercial district in Dubai.

“Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and Candy Capital have formed a partnership and are collaborating on a new super-prime real estate development. This will be announced in more detail later this year,” said a representative of the joint venture in a statement given to MEED.

The mixed-use towers are expected to have two branded residences, two hotels, and office space. The construction work involves building three towers. The two taller towers will be connected by a sky bridge that will contain one of the hotels.

Dubai-based Killa Design has been appointed as the architect for the project.

London projects

Candy Capital is a privately held family office established by British entrepreneur and businessman Nick Candy. His best-known property development is One Hyde Park in London, which he developed with his brother Christian. It consists of 86 apartments and three retail units and is considered one of the wealthiest residences in the world.

The existing One Central district has been completed by DWTC in phases.

The local/UK Al-Futtaim Carillion was the contractor for the first three phases of building work. The first phase was awarded in 2014. It involved building a 146,000-square-metre development, with an eight-storey office building and a 588-room hotel. The second phase, which was awarded a year later in 2015, involved the construction of two office buildings of eight and twelve storeys and a built-up area of about 178,000 square metres.

The third phase, awarded in late 2016, involved building two Grade A office buildings of 12 and 8 storeys with a built-up area of 182,500 square metres.

In 2017, local contractor ASGC was awarded the contract to build the 25hours hotel. It is an eight-storey hotel building with 434 rooms, food and beverage outlets, and a swimming pool. The gross internal area is 38,800 square metres.

The UK’s export credit agency, UK Export Finance (UKEF), provided financial support for the earlier phases of the project.

Previous scheme

A previous attempt to develop the area, which is next to the Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre, was put on hold during the 2008-09 global financial crisis. In May 2008, the local Alec was awarded a contract to build the first phase of that project in May 2008, which involved the construction of seven towers with 242,000 square metres of offices, a 35,000 square-metre four-star hotel, a 22,000 square metre three-star hotel, 20,000 square metres of retail space and a four-level, and a 110,000 square-metre basement. The total built-up area was about 1 million square metres.

The plans for that development also included a five-star hotel tower, which was to be tendered separately.

Delivering extraordinary spaces across the world, these are the architecture and design practices to watch in 2023.

Written by Shona Jackson | December 2022

Poised at the forefront of contemporary architecture, the following list of A+Award-winning practices features the firms behind some of the world’s most ground-breaking projects from the past 10 years. As winners of the Best Firm Categories, each office was judged based on the strength of their portfolios. Whether small or large in number, their trailblazing teams are producing considered, dynamic designs that push the bounds of traditional typologies and point the industry in exciting new directions for the future.

The judging criteria for the A+Firm Awards program have been carefully formulated to cover a broad range of qualities, allowing jurors to come to a fair decision on which firms are delivering excellence in their respective fields. These standards are embodied by all of the winners on this list, many of whom share a holistic and socially engaged approach to design. Through their architectural work, these practices propose innovative solutions to complex local challenges while remaining cognizant of the global landscape. To this end, their portfolios articulate eloquent responses to the changing needs of the modern world, mindful of climate change, sustainability and inclusivity. Spread across six continents, these pioneering architecture and design practices around the world are ones to watch in 2023…

Killa Design

Popular Choice Winner, 10^th Annual A+Awards, Best Large Firm (50+ employees)

Firm Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Pictured Projects: Museum of the Future, Dubai, United Arab Emirates ; Boutique Resort, Oman (Concept)

Located in Dubai, Killa Design seeks to shrug off architectural methodologies of the past and tackle each project as a new opportunity for innovation. Sustainability and contextual sensitivity are at the heart of the firm’s designs, which negotiate social and environmental responsibilities with an uncompromising commitment to high-quality constructions.

Dedicated to creating spaces that enrich the user experience, their areas of expertise span hospitality, corporate and residential, as well as museums, cultural buildings, urban design and master planning projects.

Killa Design Named Top Architecture Firm in Dubai.

Written by Architizer Editors | December 2022

The enormity of Dubai’s urban growth over the past three decades belies this short description. Once a tiny fishing village on the edge of the desert, today, the cosmopolitan metropolis is home to a kaleidoscopic assemblage of dizzyingly tall towers. Built on a foundation of mercantile activity and later fueled by oil revenue and tourism, the city exploded over the past 30 years. Nothing better symbolizes this than the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. Since it topped out at 2,717 feet (828 meters) and 160 floors in 2010, the building has announced the city’s global importance and architectural daring.

As the city continues to climb the ranks of the world’s most visited urban areas, architecture firms are cropping up to meet the supply and demand. The bar has already been set, and architectural offices in Dubai continue to rise to the occasion.

With so many architecture firms to choose from, it’s challenging for clients to identify the industry leaders that will be an ideal fit for their project needs. Fortunately, Architizer is able to provide guidance on the top design firms in Dubai based on more than a decade of data and industry knowledge.

How are these architecture firms ranked?

The following ranking has been created according to key statistics that demonstrate each firm’s level of architectural excellence. The following metrics have been accumulated to establish each architecture firm’s ranking, in order of priority:

• The number of A+Awards won (2013 to 2022)
• The number of A+Awards finalists (2013 to 2022)
• The number of projects selected as “Project of the Day” (2009 to 2022)
• The number of projects selected as “Featured Project” (2009 to 2022)
• The number of projects uploaded to Architizer (2009 to 2022)

Each of these metrics is explained in more detail at the foot of this article. This ranking list will be updated annually, taking into account new achievements of Dubai architecture firms throughout the year.

As a firm, Killa Design is dedicated to creating innovative buildings that are timeless, environmentally sustainable, and contextually inspired.

We specialise in mixed-use, high rise, hospitality, office, and residential projects. We also have significant experience in retail, theatre, museum, urban design, and master planning projects.

With value led building solutions, cutting edge and creative thinking, we strive to build strong relationships with our clients by going beyond the brief to help transform their project vision into viable, liveable spaces.

Our people are passionate about responsible design and the impact it has on the lives we touch every day.

Some of Killa Design’s most prominent projects include:

• Science Museum, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
• Marsa Al Arab , Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• Marsa Al Arab – Quay Wall Villas , Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• Sheybarah Resort, Red Sea
• Vida Dubai Marina & Yacht Club , Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The following statistics helped Killa Design achieve 1st place in the 4 Best Architecture Firms in Dubai:

Why Should I Trust Architizer’s Ranking?

With more than 30,000 architecture firms and over 130,000 projects within its database, Architizer is proud to host the world’s largest online community of architects and building product manufacturers. Its celebrated A+Awards program is also the largest celebration of architecture and building products, with more than 400 jurors and hundreds of thousands of public votes helping to recognize the world’s best architecture each year.

Architizer also powers firm directories for a number of AIA (American Institute of Architects) Chapters nationwide, including the official directory of architecture firms for AIA New York.

Vida Dubai Marina & Yacht Club hotel to open in December.

Written by Hayley Skirka | 10th October 2022

A luxury hotel opening in Dubai Marina this year will finally replace what was once one of the city’s most popular boating, dining and drinking destinations.

Vida Dubai Marina & Yacht Club will open in December with 158 rooms overlooking one of the world’s largest man-made marinas.

The four-star hotel is bringing a sophisticated yet unpretentious Miami-inspired design, social dining options and co-working spaces to the site on the Marina Promenade, formerly home to the much-loved Dubai Marina Yacht Club.

That building opened in 2008 and quickly became one of the neighbourhood’s most popular destinations with a private marina and health club, plus several Dubai social staples such as Aquara Restaurant, Yots Sports Lounge and the nautical 25°55° Cafe Bistro.

Demolished in 2017 by Emaar as part of redevelopment plans for Dubai Marina, more than five years later, the new 230-metre skyscraper tower is finally gearing up to take its place.

Details on what exactly travellers can expect when staying at the family-friendly resort are still being released, but all rooms will have views over the city or the yacht-filled marina.

There’s also a temperature-controlled swimming pool, a state-of-the art gymnasium and a spa offering wellness treatments.

Concepts by Killa Design — the same company behind Dubai’s Museum of the Future, recently named the world’s most beautiful building — include a simplistic, sophisticated design that translates into vast open spaces filled with natural light. There’s also forward-thinking technology such as innovative in-lobby arrival pods where guests can self-check-in.

The hotel offers direct access to the Marina Promenade, with Dubai Marina Mall and JBR within walking distance. And if it’s anything like Vida’s other hotels, the new property will also be dog-friendly, meaning travellers should be able to bring their pets for an overnight stay.

Vida Dubai Marina & Yacht Club is the fifth Vida hotel in the city, joining properties in Emirates Hills, Downtown Dubai and Ras Al Khor. The family-friendly hotel group also has a beachfront property in Umm Al Quwain.