MDX students visit construction site of iconic Burj Azizi structure in Dubai

Burj Azizi will become the world's second tallest building with more than 130 floors 

Middlesex University students aiming to become architectural designers enjoyed the incredible experience of seeing the construction of an iconic structure in Dubai which is set to be the second tallest building in the world.

Eight students from the BSc Architectural Technology programme got to see first-hand the complex building of the Burj Azizi which will stand at 725 metres high and feature more than 130 floors by the time it is completed in 2029.

This remarkable development, which is the second highest building behind the Burj Khalifa in Dubai (828m), will include a high-tech car park, a shopping mall, a seven-star hotel, residences, nightclubs, a museum, and wellness centres. With a planned project length of five years, the tower utilises an ambitious three-day floor construction cycle.

Kindly sponsored by construction firm Azizi Developments, students learned about the many complexities of the design and construction processes from the mechanical, electrical and plumbing which is needed over nine double heighted mechanical floors, the efforts to reduce waste and health and safety measures during and after construction as well as the similarities and differences between the UK and Dubai construction industry.

“It is a mind-blowing project surpassing my current knowledge and imagination, an incredibly futuristic and advanced structure that seems almost too good to be true. However, with all the introductions and lectures we’ve seen it all comes to life."

Robin Gaweda, a student on the trip

Student Rabi Gymiah said: “Burj Aziz's project management taught me the value of planning before beginning a project. The motto ‘no plan, no work’ truly touched me since it teaches me that having a strategy is essential for success.”

Fellow student Kristin Gray said: “As someone fascinated by tall buildings and the intricacies of their design and construction, I've found it fascinating to learn about all the details, from the structural elements to the façade and MEP systems. This building is set to have a transformative impact on Dubai, and it's exciting to be involved from the outset, especially after visiting the construction site where it will be built.”

Dubai, which is the largest city in the United Arab of Emirates (UAE) and home to one of Middlesex University’s international campuses, has a unique skyline with more than 100 buildings standing at more than 500ft high.

During the tour, students and staff visited other renowned landmarks such as the Dubai Mall where they witnessed a stunning water show, the Coca Cola Arena for the Burj Azizi Launch Party, The Museum of the Future, the Global Village and Al Seef promenade. With the opportunity to sample cuisines from around the world, the trip was rounded off with spectacular sunset views in Dubai Desert.

Student Jude Stroud said: “It has been a truly welcoming experience and gives me guidance I can take now through my journey of the architectural practice industry. Visiting Dubai was a fantastic opportunity for me on a personal level.”

Third-year student Beatriz Palminha said: “Extremely diverse and very beautiful, the Dubai Skyline is one of the best I’ve ever seen. The attraction and places we visited were incredibly interesting.”

Credit: Azizi Developments

Jack Timms, the Head of Employability and Careers who joined the students, praised the ‘incredible programme, a true blend of education and enjoyment’.

Dr Homeira Shayesteh, Programme Leader for Architectural Technology and a Senior Lecturer in Architecture, Construction and BIM (Building Information Modelling) who accompanied the students, said: “Azizi Developments resonates a culture of bold vision, knowledge sharing, and innovation. Their generosity in nurturing future professionals is truly commendable, and it was a privilege for me to witness their inspiring work environment first-hand. This programme is a leading example of how academia and industry can collaborate to provide students with real-world exposure to engineering and architectural challenges while inspiring and equipping the next generation to carry forward its legacy.”

Find out more about the BSc Architectural Technology course at Middlesex University.