A soaring icon above Dubai’s skyline
Photographer Ahmad Alnaji has masterfully captured Ciel Dubai Marina, a remarkable skyscraper designed by architecture studio NORR. Officially opened last November, this architectural masterpiece and true marvel of design rises to an impressive 377 meters, surpassing the 356-meter Gevora Hotel to claim the title of the tallest hotel-only building in the world.
Alnaji, who leads Sarab, was personally commissioned by Yahya Jan, NORR’s project lead, to photograph the Ciel Dubai Marina in its intended grandeur. “Jan wanted photos that are artistic yet don’t deceive the viewer about the true design and elements of Ciel,” Alnaji explained. The resulting images convey the story of this unique architectural icon beautifully.
Architectural genius: Features and design brilliance
Operated by IHG’s Vignette Collection, Ciel Dubai Marina houses 1,004 hotel rooms along with eight cafes and restaurants, a spa, a gym, and dedicated amenities for children. The structure sits on a white-clad podium and narrows elegantly at its top and base. Its curved facades feature cold-bent glass panels specially crafted to withstand Dubai’s prevailing winds. Indeed, every element speaks to the ingenuity that conceived it.
An eye-catching opening in its upper structure features an infinity pool on the 76th floor, offering breathtaking views of Dubai Marina. A public observation deck crowns this opening, while a 300-meter-tall atrium below is divided into a series of terraces that create the building’s backbone.
Alnaji shares that the interior architecture is designed around a 300-meter atrium at the tower’s core, hosting vertically stacked, landscaped sky gardens. These terraces provide naturally ventilated communal spaces, epitomizing Yahya Jan’s vision of vertical living within this supertall hotel. This aspect further highlights the creativity infused into every facet of Ciel Dubai Marina.
NORR’s visionary legacy
Founded in 1938, NORR is a prestigious architecture, engineering, and planning studio with a global presence in Canada, the USA, and the UK. Dubai, known for its towering skyline, will soon welcome Mercedes-Benz-branded residences and MVRDV’s innovative skyscraper featuring a giant orb.
The visionary photography capturing Ciel Dubai Marina’s brilliance is credited to Ahmad Alnaji, reflecting a seamless blend of artistry and architectural precision. His work ensures that the genius of the skyscraper is immortalized through his lens.
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Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
Who commissioned Ahmad Alnaji to photograph Ciel Dubai Marina?
Ahmad Alnaji was personally commissioned by Yahya Jan, NORR’s project lead, to photograph the Ciel Dubai Marina.
What is the height of Ciel Dubai Marina?
Ciel Dubai Marina rises to an impressive 377 meters, surpassing the 356-meter Gevora Hotel to claim the title of the tallest hotel-only building in the world.
What are some features of Ciel Dubai Marina?
Ciel Dubai Marina features 1,004 hotel rooms, eight cafes and restaurants, a spa, a gym, and an infinity pool on the 76th floor. It also includes a public observation deck and a 300-meter-tall atrium divided into terraces.