Fiona Nanna, ForeMedia News

4 minutes read. Updated 6:51AM GMT Sat, 10August, 2024

As you gaze upon the skyline of Dubai, the striking silhouette of Ciel Dubai Marina stands out—a testament to the visionary architect behind it, Yahya Jan. As the president and design director of NORR, an esteemed architecture and engineering firm, Jan is no stranger to iconic landmarks, having previously worked on renowned structures such as the Atlantis and Shangri-La Hotels in Dubai.

Now, Jan is steering his most ambitious project yet. Scheduled for completion by the end of 2024, Ciel Dubai Marina, previously known as Ciel Tower, is set to become the tallest hotel in the world. This architectural marvel will soar to approximately 1,200 feet (365 meters) and feature over 1,000 rooms and suites spread across 82 floors.

A Masterpiece of Engineering and Design

Jan’s challenge was to design this monumental skyscraper on a relatively compact triangular plot of land in Dubai Marina, measuring just 2,500 square meters—a constraint reminiscent of the space challenges faced in cities like Manhattan or London. “It’s a property that’s very compressed,” Jan explained to CNN in 2021. “The constraints were tremendous, and yet we had to make it work.”

The Ciel Dubai Marina will feature a glass observation deck providing panoramic views of the city, coastline, and landmarks such as the Palm Jumeirah. Visitors will be able to enjoy these views from a rooftop swimming pool and a range of dining options.

In addition to its visual appeal, the project emphasizes sustainability. The building is designed to use 25% less power for air conditioning compared to similar structures. “This project is not just about architecture. It’s about architecture and engineering coming together,” Jan stated. “That’s why I love the project so much. It is my passion, the convergence of science and art.”

Jan’s involvement in the project has been profound. “When you design a project as complex as the Ciel, you can never let your guard down,” he noted. “It’s a continuous process.”

From Karachi to Dubai: A Legacy in the Making

Jan’s journey began in Karachi, Pakistan, before he moved to the United States on a scholarship at the age of 18. After studying structural engineering at Princeton University and earning a Master’s in Architecture, Jan spent nine years working in the U.S. He had no intention of leaving until he received a job offer to work as a senior designer on the Emirates Towers office and hotel complex in Dubai.

At 61, Jan reflects on his unexpected journey. “I never planned to stay in the UAE for so long,” he admits. “I got carried away with the excitement here.” Now, after 28 years in Dubai, Jan hopes that Ciel Dubai Marina, named after the French word for ‘sky,’ will become as timeless as landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building.

“The reason I like the fact that it’s called Ciel is because I believe in our own lives the sky is the limit,” Jan said. “I’ve had a chance to grow and do things that I didn’t think I would get a chance to do. So it’s been amazing.”

For more information on Yahya Jan’s groundbreaking projects and architectural innovations, visit NORR’s official website and explore their portfolio.