The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has appointed Gensler & Associates as the designer of the DIFC Gate building.

The building will serve as the headquarters for the DIFC and will be the first in the proposed multi-billion-dollar Dubai financial district.

The winning bid was drawn from a shortlist of seven firms.

Gensler was chosen because its design delivered an iconic structure that simultaneously provided a practical working environment, a DIFC statement said.

The design is a contemporary interpretation of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and will be composed of solid stone and stainless steel that will form the main arch. Transparent glazed elements will emphasise the open arch at the centre of the building.

Open steel latticework on the top of the arch will symbolise the transparency that the DIFC aims to build upon, the statement said.

The structure will rise 15 floors above a podium that will house retail and parking facilities. The gate will accommodate the offices of the DIFC, the Regulatory Authority and the Regional Financial Exchange. It will also offer office accommodation for other businesses.

Marwan Al Felasi, projects manager for DIFC Real Estate Development, expects construction to begin in December. Work is scheduled to be completed by early 2004.