Dubai's new high-rise "Islands in the Sky" to feature floating gardens, cascading pools & more

Photo : Screengrab / Instagram / @thermegroup

Dubai is set to change its skyline with a new ambitious project that will bring nature and wellness to new heights. A groundbreaking structure, called "Islands in the Sky," will be built in the city's Zabeel Park, next to the Royal Palace. Designed by the award-winning architecture firm Diller Scofidio + Renfro (DS+R) in collaboration with the Therme Group, the concept promises to unveil a unique amalgamation of floating botanical gardens, cascading thermal pools, and cultural spaces.

The project is expected to attract around 1.7 million visitors every year, offering an innovative approach to relaxation and well-being. Therme Group has described the structure as "an oasis in the sky," with lush gardens stacked on different levels, creating a vertical paradise above the city.

"Therme Dubai - Islands in the Sky brings together Dubai's ambition to enhance its landscape and become an urban oasis with Therme Group's expertise in wellness-focused infrastructure," the company said in a statement.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel  

Robert Hanea, group founder and CEO of Therme Group, stressed that projects like those brought forward to Dubai should harmonize nature, water, and culture in urban lifestyles. "Dubai is a city that understands the future must be built with well-being at its core. We're giving shape to how cities could integrate those elements to raise the quality of life for everyone. This project will be a world model of what is possible when vision and expertise come together, he said.

The structure will stand at 100 meters (328 feet) high and feature multiple floating platforms, each acting as an individual island with a different theme. These islands will house thermal pools, lush green terraces, saunas, and spaces for cultural and social gatherings.

Each island offers a unique experience-warm, cool, wet, and dry. Visitors enjoy saunas, steam rooms as a soothing place for heat relaxation and refreshing pools with mineral ingredients. It could be a resting haven during day hours and have night life involving music, visual art, or other cultural and social activities by night." Explained Elizabeth Diller, who is a principal partner at Diller Scofidio + Renfro.

In addition to its emphasis on wellness and entertainment, the project will focus on sustainability. The resort will recycle 90% of its water usage for its thermal pools and use clean energy sources for 80% of its cooling and fresh air needs.

Construction for Islands in the Sky is set to take place starting 2026, while completion is targeted by 2028. The project is being envisioned to become a world benchmark for urban well-being and architectural innovation once completed.