TOP 5: World’s tallest hotels
Ciel, The First Group’s architectural masterpiece in Dubai Marina, is set to claim the title of world’s tallest hotel when it opens in early 2025. Here, we profile this incredible development, alongside those that came before it
1.CIEL
Dubai Marina, Dubai UAE
Height: 365 metres
Opening: Q1, 2025
Towering 82 floors above the busy streets of Dubai Marina, Ciel will officially claim the title of world’s tallest hotel when it opens early next year.
Designed by acclaimed architectural firm NORR and befitting its status as the world’s tallest hotel, Ciel boasts a number of exciting design innovations that will set it apart in a city known the world over for its ultra-modern skyline.
The multi-award-winning high-rise development will house 1,004 guestrooms and suites, each designed to provide a serene retreat from the vibrant tempo of city life. One of the hotel’s most unique features will be its open-air observation deck located on the 82nd floor, which will offer unlimited views of Dubai's renowned skyline and the Arabian Gulf. Guests will be transported from a dedicated ground-level lobby via glass elevator to the viewing platform located 360 metres above the bustling streets below. Other highlights include a luxury spa retreat and fully equipped health club, rooftop infinity pool and bar, and multiple F&B outlets including signature restaurants and bars. Ciel is situated in the heart of Dubai Marina adjacent to the popular Marina Walk al fresco dining and retail precinct, close to the beach, the Marina Mall shopping and entertainment complex and local leisure attractions.
2. Gevora Hotel
Dubai, UAE
Height: 356 metres
Opened: 2018
Located on Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road, the four-star Gevora Hotel previously held claim to the title of world’s tallest hotel following its opening in September 2018.
At the time, it was the eighth-tallest completed building in Dubai, the ninth tallest in the UAE, and ranked among the 50 tallest buildings in the world.
Rising to a height of 356 metres, the tower houses 528 guestrooms across its 75 floors.
3. JW Marriott Marquis Hotel
Dubai, UAE
Height: 355 metres
Opened: 2012
Built at a cost of US$500 million, the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai reaches a height of 355 metres and overlooks Dubai’s famous Sheikh Zayed Road. Designed to resemble a date palm, the hotel’s twin towers feature 1,568 guestrooms and suites, a banquet hall, an auditorium, 18 retail outlets, multiple restaurants and a spa.
4. Shimao International Plaza
Shanghai, China
Height: 333.3 metres
Opened: 2006
This striking skyscraper, which is situated in Shanghai's bustling Huangpu District, was designed by Ingenhoven, Overdiek und Partner in conjunction with East China Architecture and the Design Institute.
The 60-storey building is notably marked by two iconic spires that punctuate the Shanghai skyline. The tower is home to the recently opened five-star Conrad Shanghai, which boasts 728 guestrooms and occupies the upper 48 floors, offering guests panoramic city views and a host of luxury amenities.
Complementing its hospitality offerings, the tower also features a shopping mall spread across nine floors and three floors dedicated to exclusive clubs, making it a premier destination for both leisure and business in the heart of Shanghai.
5. Burj Al Arab
Dubai, UAE
Height: 321 metres
Opened: 1999
An architectural icon synonymous with Dubai, the Burj Al Arab stands as an emblem of opulence. Designed to resemble the billowing white sail of an Arabian dhow, the seven-star hotel reaches a height of 321 metres and is situated on its own artificial island. Conceived by British architect Tom Wright, the structure is notable for its distinctive silhouette set against the Dubai skyline, making it one of the most photographed buildings in the world.
The Burj Al Arab houses 202 duplex suites, each boasting floor-to-ceiling windows and views across the Arabian Gulf, a private beach, and the renowned Talise Spa.