Vertical City, a zero-energy city building could be added to the iconic Dubai skyline. The project with an undisclosed budget was designed by Luca Curci Architects. The city was proposed at the Knowledge Summit in Dubai in 2019.

The official project states Middle East as the site, with the client listed as private under the status of project proposal.

Vertical City is designed to be self-sustainable towers on water which houses 25,000 individuals. The city will have a zero-waste policy and use renewable resources such as solar panels, wind turbines and wind water.

“We will build a new way of living. More sustainable. With more interconnected communities programmes. Deleting suburbs. Reducing poverty”, said Luca Curci.

With Dubai’s sustainable efforts in recent years and companies heading towards a net-zero future, the project would align with the sustainability goals of the country.

Alienated from the surrounding space the project is an open structure with green areas on every level allowing natural light and ventilation. The design of the building aims to enhance a healthier lifestyle among residents.

The structure’s exterior is surrounded by photovoltaic glass which generates energy and provides it to the whole building, not only does it provide energy for the Vertical City but could extend it to the mainland as well.

The building has openings throughout to allow circulation of air and light through all levels, with ‘Green zones’ spread throughout the tower, the spaces are designed to enhance community life.

Every modular repeated layer is at a height of 72 metres, each with a diameter of 155 metres of which 120 metres is empty space. The building houses apartments, duplexes, villas, offices, stores and other facilities.

Built on the sea, the tower also has multiple underwater floors which will host parking and technical areas as well as spas, meditation centres, gyms and luxury hotel rooms with underwater views.

The building is accessible by three modes; water, land or air.

The circular basement is equipped with external and internal docs and three naval entries. Larger boats can dock externally, internal access will be limited to smaller boats.

The mainland is accessible through a semi-submerged bridge for pedestrians, cars and public electric transports.

Helipads located on the upper garden will provide air transport access.