Dubai to welcome world’s second-tallest skyscraper

CNN highlights that Dubai is poised to add another monumental achievement to its skyline with the Burj Azizi, a skyscraper set to become the world’s second tallest building.

Dubai, already renowned for hosting the world’s tallest skyscraper, is now preparing to unveil the world’s second tallest. The Burj Azizi, which began construction in January, kept its exact height under wraps as it awaited approval from Dubai’s authorities, including the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), which oversees plans for exceptionally tall buildings.

Azizi Developments revealed that the Burj Azizi will rise to an impressive 725 meters (2,379 feet), surpassing all nearby structures except one. "Initially, we had two design plans — one for the approved height of 526 meters and another for the now-approved 725 meters," said Mirwais Azizi, the founder and chairman of Azizi Developments.  

The developer had kept its options open when starting preliminary work earlier this year. With approval secured for the taller design, work on the foundations and piling is already in progress. The 131-story skyscraper will house apartments, a luxurious “seven-star” hotel, and a seven-floor “vertical” shopping mall. Situated on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai's World Trade Center district, the Burj Azizi will be nearly 340 feet shorter than the Burj Khalifa, which stands at 2,717 feet and is located less than two miles away. 

Despite this, the Burj Azizi will secure its place as the city’s second tallest building, surpassing the current record-holder, Marina 101, which reaches 1,394 feet.   Upon completion, it will also surpass Malaysia’s Merdeka 118, currently the world's second-tallest building at 2,227 feet. The Burj Azizi is set to achieve several notable records, including the world’s highest hotel lobby on the 11th floor, the highest nightclub on the 126th floor, and the highest observation deck on the 130th floor, as reported by Azizi Developments.

Additionally, it will feature Dubai’s highest restaurant on the 122nd floor, surpassing the Burj Khalifa’s At.mosphere, and the city's highest hotel room on the 118th floor.   Azizi Developments has announced that investment in the project has exceeded 6 billion dirhams ($1.6 billion). Mirwais Azizi, the founder and chairman, stated in a press release, "My vision for Burj Azizi is to create a lasting legacy, a tribute to Dubai as a premier destination for both residents and visitors, and a monumental engineering achievement." Dubai currently leads the world with the highest number of towers exceeding 300 meters (984 feet), according to the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat.

The city is renowned for its record-breaking structures, including the world’s highest infinity pool, the largest natural flower garden, and the largest picture frame.   Several more impressive projects are in the pipeline: The Franck Muller Aeternitas Tower aims to become the tallest residential clock tower globally upon its 2027 completion, while Ciel Dubai Marina, expected to finish later this year, is set to be the tallest hotel in the world.

Additionally, the Burj Binghatti Jacob & Co Residences is on track to become the tallest residential building worldwide and Dubai’s third-tallest structure at 1,952 feet.   Burj Azizi is projected to be finished in 2028, with apartments anticipated to be available for purchase starting February 2025.