THE main construction work has started on Dubai Pearl, a Dh15-billion ($4 billion) integrated luxury development, following the completion of the enabling and piling works by Al Habtoor STFA Soil Group (HSSG), according to Pearl Dubai, a leading real estate developer in the UAE.
Al Habtoor Leighton Group was awarded the main contract at the end of last year.
Abdul Majeed Ismail Al Fahim, chairman of Pearl Dubai, said: “The commencement of main construction work illustrates our commitment to ensure a timely transformation of this high-end landmark destination, which will set new industry benchmarks in the region.”
Initially, around 200 workers will be engaged on the site and the number is expected to reach 8,000 at the peak of construction.
David Savage, managing director of the Al Habtoor Leighton Group, said: “We have been involved with Dubai Pearl from the beginning of its construction, and will continue to ensure that excellence in quality and safety goes hand-in-hand with the use of the best technology on the project.”
State-of-the-art construction technologies and building techniques will be applied on the project. High-strength concrete, steel trusses and hollowcore slabs will be used in the composite construction process of the iconic towers. Heavy-lifting techniques using jacking systems will be utilised for lifting the ‘sky palaces’ on top of the four towers.
To comply with the Leed Gold certification processes, Pearl Dubai is facilitating recycling of materials from the previously-demolished structures, and is currently working towards meeting all pre-certification requirements.
Crucial provisions are additionally being incorporated into the project design to optimise power and cooling requirements as part of the company’s priority towards endorsing global green building standards.
Located in the heart of Tecom, Dubai Pearl will boast easy access from arterial highways — Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Sufouh Road — and the elevated ring road. The world-class, pedestrian-friendly development, will comprise stunning elements including a broad spectrum of commercial, retail, residential, hospitality and leisure components. Dubai Pearl will also boast a 2,000-seat performing arts theatre.
Featuring an active business district with a quality urban lifestyle, Dubai Pearl will host some of the world’s top brands, and will include landscaped gardens, luxury branded apartments and condominiums.