DMCC – the world’s flagship free zone, Government of Dubai Authority on commodities trade and enterprise, and master developer of Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), Dubai, has announced that work was progressing well on its 81-floor Uptown Tower project, which was 20 per cent complete.

Once ready, the 81-storeyed Uptown Tower will stand 340-m tall featuring 188 luxury hotel rooms and suites, exclusive restaurants and health spas besides extensive conference facilities, Grade A offices with large efficient floor plates, and 229 uniquely designed branded residences.

Guided by a smart and sustainable construction strategy, Uptown Tower will be LEED Gold Certified Building, and home to a state-of-the-art DMCC Business Hub, said the statement from the developer.

According to DMCC, the first super tall tower in the Uptown Dubai district is on schedule for completion in Q1 2022, with pre-leasing to commence later this year.

The contract for the Uptown Tower construction was awarded to Six Construct – the entity of BESIX Group in the Middle East – in January last year by DMCC and as of February 2020, enabling, piling and substructure works is already completed.

Executive Chairman and CEO Ahmed Bin Sulayem said: "Uptown Tower will be an exciting addition to Dubai’s iconic skyline, but it will also enhance the world-class business hub curated in Jumeirah Lakes Towers by DMCC."

"The Uptown Dubai district will increase the commercial appeal of Dubai; attracting both businesses and residents to the existing community of 100,000 people," he noted.

Designed by Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, Uptown Tower replicates the brilliance of diamonds through its faceted glass façade that illuminates the interior spaces with natural light while filtering out harsh glare.

AccorHotels is set to bring its luxury hospitality and residential boutique brand, SO/ to the project, with SO/ Uptown Dubai being the brand’s debut property in the Middle East, stated Bin Sulayem.

Executive Director (Property) Paul Ashton said: "Uptown Tower will deliver a compelling proposition for employers looking to attract and retain talent due to its onsite lifestyle amenities, walkable proximity to thousands of residences in the area as well as substantial retail and entertainment options, and metro accessibility through a planned air conditioned link bridge."

"Strong interest has already been registered by prospective tenants," stated the senior DMCC official.

Uptown Tower is set to sit at the heart of the Uptown Dubai district – a 24-hour neighbourhood brimming with world-class dining, unique high-end retail outlets, a central entertainment plaza and some of the world’s most desirable hotels and leading businesses, he added.-TradeArabia News Service