SZ Tower

The Sheikh Zayed Tower design is inspired by tradition and nature in the form of the Arabian cloak (Bisht), the inner garment (Thawb) and the pearls native to the region. The Arabic cloak has been chosen for both symbolic and functional reasons. It is often seen as a badge of national identity in Abu Dhabi and the UAE, and is used here to signify the Sheikh’s interest in the culture and heritage of the region. Functionally its suitability as a form of dress can be applied equally to a building, to moderate the temperature and to filter the dust as well as creating a framework for supporting photovoltaics and establishing a “pergola” for shading outside spaces. It would stand as a symbol of human endeavour, and an icon for Abu Dhabi.