The Tallest Buildings in Dubai Marina

Dubai's relentless expansion continues unabated. Each year, an increasing number of individuals from across the globe flock here, propelling the real estate market to meet demand through the creation of numerous ambitious residential complexes and neighbourhoods. While Downtown Dubai and its iconic centrepiece, the Burj Khalifa, stand as a testament to the UAE's magnificence and grandeur, there is more to Dubai's landscape than just this towering marvel. This city boasts a plethora of attractions and skyscraping structures that captivate both residents and tourists alike. 

To the south of Downtown, nestled along the shores of the Persian Gulf, lies another prominent locale – Dubai Marina. This vibrant district boasts an array of residential skyscrapers that cater to your needs for living, working, and unwinding. Continue reading to discover insights about the ten loftiest edifices gracing the skyline of Dubai Marina.

1. Marina 101
2. Princess Tower
3. 23 Marinaе
4. Elite Residence
5. The Torch
6. DAMAC Residenze
7. Ocean Heights
8. Cayan Tower
9. Jumeirah Gate
10. Emirates Crown

1. Marina 101 

Height: 432 metres, 101 floors

Currently, Marina 101 is the second tallest building in Dubai (after Burj Khalifa) and the 32nd in the world.

Marina 101's construction commenced in 2007 with an initial projected completion date of 2014. However, the project remains unfinished to this day. In 2019, construction was halted, and subsequently, two years later, the incomplete structure was listed for auction. As per the latest update from the Dubai Land Department (DLD), Marina 101 is nearing completion, yet the façade work persists, and the exact commissioning date remains undisclosed. 

2. Princess Tower 

Height: 413.3 metres, 101 floors

Ranking as the third-tallest structure in Dubai Marina, the Princess Tower emerged in September 2012. Once holding the title of the world's tallest residential building for a triumphant three-year period, this skyscraper stands proud. Its impressive 101 floors encompass 763 apartments. Notably, the crowning jewel of this skyscraper is its circular observation deck, affording breathtaking vistas that encompass the entirety of Dubai and the picturesque Persian Gulf.

3. 23 Marina 

Height: 392.8 metres, 89 floors

Prior to the Princess Tower's finalisation, the distinction of the world's tallest residential building was briefly held by 23 Marina, which was inaugurated in May 2012, maintaining this honour for a mere three months. Remarkably, even though the Burj Khalifa had been completed by that time, it was not eligible for the title due to its non-residential classification. Comprising 289 opulent apartments and duplexes, 23 Marina offers an array of luxurious living spaces. Notably, the duplexes are outfitted with private lifts, adding a touch of exclusivity. Noteworthy as well, the skyscraper boasts an astonishing 57 swimming pools, further contributing to its remarkable stature.

4. Elite Residence 

Height: 380.5 metres, 90 floors

The moniker "Elite Residence" speaks volumes, encapsulating its status as a premium residential tower. This skyscraper is conveniently situated adjacent to Palm Jumeirah, affording its occupants the privilege of gazing upon the renowned artificial archipelago from their residences. Comprising a total of 695 apartments, the tower provides an array of upscale amenities including swimming pools, fitness centres, a business hub, and various other offerings.

5. The Torch

Height: 352 metres, 79 floors

Built in 2011, The Torch once held the distinction of being the world's tallest residential building, albeit for a limited period. Regrettably, this skyscraper has had to contend with a succession of unfortunate incidents. The Torch has weathered three separate fires: in 2015, 2017, and 2019. Fortunately, these incidents did not lead to any casualties, causing only minor disruptions for the residents—chiefly, an extended closure of the swimming pool to facilitate restoration. Perhaps, in hindsight, the choice of the name "The Torch" seems somewhat ill-fated.

6. DAMAC Residenze

Height: 335 metres, 84 floors

In its initial stages, the developer firm DAMAC envisaged the construction of a towering structure, reaching 420 metres in height, following the prosperous culmination of its debut skyscraper – Ocean Heights. Yet, subsequent deliberations led to a reduction in the height of DAMAC Residenze, ultimately settling at 335 metres. The building is distinguished by its exceptional design characterised by fluid lines, along with its captivating vantage point, affording an exquisite panorama of the Palm Jumeirah archipelago.

7. Ocean Heights

Height: 310 metres, 83 floors

In 2010, the realisation of Ocean Heights marked a significant milestone as the inaugural super-tall structure (surpassing 300 metres) within DAMAC's portfolio. The visionary behind the tower's spiral design was Andrew Bromberg. Encompassing an impressive 83 floors, Ocean Heights accommodates upwards of 500 apartments. Presently, it claims the position of being the 25th tallest edifice both within Dubai Marina and the broader cityscape.

8. Cayan Tower

Height: 306 metres, 73 floors

Originally christened the Infinity Tower owing to its forward-looking design, the Cayan Tower underwent a name change during its opening ceremony, decided upon by the owner. Given the existence of multiple Infinity Towers worldwide, the proprietor aimed to bestow a distinct identity upon the structure. With a notable 73 floors, each successive level of the Cayan Tower exhibits a subtle twist of 1.2 degrees relative to its predecessor. Notably, the Cayan Tower formerly held the distinction of being the planet's tallest twisted building, its unique 90-degree spiral surpassed only by the completion of the Shanghai Tower. The illustrious architectural firm Skidmore, Owings and Merrill (SOM), responsible for Burj Khalifa, also crafted the design of the Cayan Tower.

9. Jumeirah Gate

Height: 301 metres, 74 floors

Jumeirah Gate stands as one of Dubai's most remarkable skyscrapers, characterised by its distinctive design. It presents the appearance of two interconnected towers linked by a pair of "bridges" – one extending from the ground level, and the other uniting the upper tiers of the towers. Essentially, it takes on the form of a frame-shaped edifice. Within its confines, Jumeirah Gate proudly hosts a luxurious five-star hotel, accompanied by an impressive collection of over 400 residential units.

10. Emirates Crown

Height: 296 metres, 63 floors

Among the structures listed, Emirates Crown holds the distinction of being the most senior. Erected in 2008, it once claimed the position of the sixth-tallest tower in Dubai, but its current ranking has shifted to the 33rd spot. Functioning primarily as a residential skyscraper, Emirates Crown accommodates a selection of apartments alongside complementary amenities, including pools, saunas, gyms, and various other facilities.

In a Nutshell

Construction never stops in Dubai; therefore, it is highly likely that this list will change soon when a new record-breaking skyscraper will appear in Dubai Marina. For instance, the 365-metre Ciel Dubai Marina tower is scheduled for commissioning in the second quarter of 2024. Experts expect it to be the highest hotel in the world.

Despite the beauty and grandeur of the skyscrapers in Dubai Marina, the true gems of the area lie at ground level. Beyond the captivating skyline, Dubai Marina exerts its allure by offering an array of exceptional amenities. The area beckons prospective property owners with a host of appealing features, encompassing an assortment of restaurants, an expansive shopping mall, a picturesque waterfront promenade, and the meandering water canal.

Cover photo: Steven Straiton from UK (Wikimedia)