For the 2020 Expo in Dubai, the plans for a new icon to be built have just been revealed. This icon will be considered as the main landmark just as the Eiffel Tower to Paris is. During their presentation, Emaar announced that it will be taller than Burj Khalifa but still the exact height is not decided upon. Th project will be around 6 sq. km.
The project is designed by Spanish architect Calatrava and estimated to cost $1 Billion. Calatrava however is known for projects that cost much more than the anticipated budget. This is according to the Full Calatrava website which lists every single project and its budget.
Emaar Properties will attempt to deliver the new Dubai Creek tower and a linked “mega-retail district” at the same time so that they are both open by the time Dubai’s Expo 2020 event begins .
“There’s no doubt that the Eiffel Tower has inspired over 100 years,” said Mr Calatrava. “It represents a city, a whole nation. It still today is a monument. I feel so proud to be part of a team that aims to obtain a similar achievement.”
Mr Calatrava’s design was chosen by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in February following an international competition between five of the world’s top practices.
The Dubai Creek tower will mainly serve as an architectural tower than a working building, but there will be between 18 and 20 upper floors used for a hotel with restaurants, function rooms, an interior garden space and an observation deck.
