Signs of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid's influence can be seen right across Dubai, but now he will literally leave his fingerprint on the city.
A 550-metre tower, the base of which will bear the imprint of the Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, is set to become the latest building to define Dubai's skyline.
Burj Jumeirah, oval-shaped on its front, and sleek and cut in two halves which meet in the middle on its side, will be developed by Dubai Holding, which also created the Burj Al Arab hotel.
Architecture renderings show a futuristic development with the Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa forming a trio of landmarks in Dubai.
The wider Downtown Jumeirah project will include homes, office space and hotels. Construction will start immediately.
Sheikh Mohammed was pictured at the unveiling of the project on Thursday. He could be seen inspecting the site as well as a scale model of the new development.
The first phase of the project is due to be completed by 2023 and is expected to become a must-see tourist attraction.
"The future is far more spectacular than you think," a sleek video showing off the project says. It goes on to illustrate a water show similar to that of Dubai Fountain, and a base jumper leaping off the building.
The production also shows a glass viewing platform from the top of the building, offering stunning but stomach-lurching views of the glowing city below.
“The launch of Burj Jumeirah in the presence of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, who has left his fingerprint on the project, is a confirmation of the critical role this development plays in Dubai’s vision for the future," said Abdulla Al Habbai, Chairman of Dubai Holding.
“The entire Downtown Jumeirah area will not only serve the needs of residents who are looking to live in cohesive and connected communities, but will also enhance Dubai’s tourism by adding another icon.”
