Dubai, a city globally recognized for the boldness of its buildings and the unique blend of tradition and modernity, is about to unveil yet another project that promises to redefine the definitions of luxury, well-being, and architectural innovation. Famous for its wonders like the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and “The World,” the artificial archipelago reshaping the planet’s map with its 300 islands, Dubai is now preparing for a new milestone: the Therme Dubai – Islands in the Sky. This bold project goes beyond aesthetics, offering a unique experience of relaxation and harmony with nature, and will establish itself as one of the largest wellness centers in the world.
Therme Dubai will be a monumental 100-meter-high structure, designed by the architectural firm Diller Scofidio + Renfro (DS+R), one of the most renowned in the world today. It will occupy a vast area in Zabeel Park, next to the Royal Palace, a strategic and iconic location that promises to transform the city’s skyline. The resort, with its revolutionary design, will resemble a suspended island in the air, a true architectural masterpiece, blending natural and futuristic elements, with an emphasis on comfort, well-being, and integration with the surrounding environment.
The Therme Dubai project is not just a large-scale building; it’s a revolution in the concept of urban well-being. The Therme Group, responsible for creating the resort, is a global developer specializing in wellness resorts, and Therme Dubai – Islands in the Sky will be the largest and most innovative of its ventures. The goal is to offer a relaxation and recovery experience that goes beyond conventional pools and spas, transforming the location into a holistic retreat for both body and mind.
With an estimated capacity of 1.7 million visitors annually, Therme Dubai aims to set a new standard for wellness tourism in Dubai and worldwide. Robert Hanea, CEO and founder of Therme Group, highlights the project’s mission: “Dubai is a city that understands that the future must be built with well-being at the center of decisions. We are redefining how cities can integrate nature, water, and culture to improve the quality of life on a large scale. Therme Dubai will be a global model of how ambition and expertise can create a transformative space.”
The architectural proposal seeks to create an environment where the boundaries between nature and technology are almost imperceptible. The concept of “floating islands” is central to the resort’s design. Each of these islands will be a platform that includes thermal pools, outdoor decks, and botanical gardens, all arranged on different vertical levels, creating a unique atmosphere of lightness and connection with nature. The resort’s appearance will be a fusion of indoor and outdoor spaces, with lush vegetation and breathtaking scenery, providing visitors with a sensory experience that varies with the time of day and weather conditions.
Therme Dubai will be a true laboratory of sensations. Each island and each environment within the resort has been designed to evoke different emotions and experiences in visitors. The project explores contrasts between heat and coolness, dryness and humidity, creating spaces that offer contrasting sensations, such as hot saunas and steam rooms alternating with cold mineral pools, bathed in thermal waters. These contrasts provide an immersive sensory experience that stimulates all the senses and creates moments of reflection, relaxation, and connection.
“Each island has a unique atmosphere, ranging from the warm and cozy environment of the saunas to the freshness of the pools, with lush vegetation that offers direct contact with nature,” explained Elizabeth Diller, founding partner of DS+R. “During the day, the space will be serene and contemplative, allowing visitors a complete disconnection from everyday stresses. At night, the resort transforms, with live music, artistic performances, and cultural events, offering a vibrant and energetic experience.”
In addition to physical sensations, Therme Dubai’s design also emphasizes the importance of culture and art in well-being. The resort will be a stage for presentations and cultural events, reflecting Dubai’s diversity and rich heritage. Scattered throughout the complex, spaces for art exhibitions and live performances will make Therme Dubai a meeting point for those seeking more than just relaxation but a true cultural immersion.
One of the most remarkable features of Therme Dubai is its sustainable approach. In a global context where environmental preservation is increasingly crucial, the Therme Dubai project stands out for its ecological solutions. The resort will feature a system that recycles 90% of the water used in its thermal pools, significantly reducing its environmental impact. Furthermore, Therme Dubai will be powered largely by clean energy sources, with 80% of its cooling and fresh air needs being met by sustainable solutions.
This ecological approach is part of a larger movement in Dubai, which seeks to become a model city in terms of sustainability and innovation. Therme Dubai, with its fusion of modern architecture and environmentally conscious practices, will serve as an example of how large-scale projects can combine luxury, well-being, and ecological responsibility.
Therme Dubai – Islands in the Sky will not be the only grand project to alter Dubai’s skyline in the coming years. The city is already preparing for the construction of other architectural landmarks of epic proportions. Among them is Burj Azizi, which will be the world’s second tallest skyscraper, standing 725 meters high and with 131 floors. Scheduled for completion in 2028, the tower will be a true symbol of luxury, featuring a “seven-star” hotel, exclusive apartments, and a vertical shopping mall. Additionally, Azizi Developments promises that the tower will set records, including the world’s highest hotel lobby and the tallest nightclub on the planet.
Another attention-grabbing project is Ciel Dubai Marina, which will become the world’s tallest hotel, standing 365 meters high with 82 floors, offering over 1,000 luxury suites and rooms. The opening of Ciel Dubai Marina is set for this year, and with this, Dubai reaffirms its position as a destination for luxury, sophistication, and innovation.
With Therme Dubai, the city not only reaffirms its status as a global center for architecture and tourism but also positions itself as a model to follow in terms of well-being, sustainability, and the integration of city and nature. Therme Dubai – Islands in the Sky will not just be an addition to the urban landscape but a new concept of experience and quality of life, where luxury blends with nature, and innovation aligns with environmental preservation. This project, set to be completed in 2028, will mark the city for the coming decades and serve as a global icon for wellness resorts in the future.
