Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
Type: Hospitality
Client: Emirates Palace Hotel
Set along 1.3 km of private beaches and surrounded by 85 hectares of gardens, the Emirates Palace marina offers 167 berths for yachts up to 140m, catering to luxurious vessels and high-profile events. As part of the Palace’s expansion, a 600-square-meter floating VIP lounge is proposed, designed to serve marina users while reflecting the palace’s identity. Positioned on the waterfront with sweeping bay views, the lounge becomes a landmark and tranquil retreat for guests.
Inspired by Abu Dhabi’s heritage, the lounge’s structure reflects a fisherman casting a net, blending traditional forms with contemporary design. A central column with cables supports the canopy-like roof, creating a layered, transparent space that merges land and sea elements, celebrating Abu Dhabi’s cultural identity.
Guests enter via land or sea, approaching an elevated deck with a bar and reception, descending to a lower deck that opens up to the vast sea. Marina arrivals enter directly into the double-height lounge, where a net-like double-glazed facade offers natural ventilation, insulation, and panoramic views.
With sustainable features like an evaporative cooling system using seawater, the lounge provides efficient climate control. The space floats above the deck, offering serene sunset views and interactive areas for VIP visitors, harmoniously connecting with paths and walkways. Its distinctive design and location make it a notable landmark of the Emirates Palace marina, blending exclusivity with the natural surroundings.