Therme Dubai Unveils ‘Islands in the Sky’ – A 100-Meter Oasis in the UAE

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — In a city renowned for its groundbreaking architecture, Therme Group has unveiled its latest project, ‘Therme Dubai – Islands in the Sky,’ a 100-meter-high (328-foot) structure designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro (DS+R). The development, scheduled to begin construction in 2026 and expected to be completed by 2028, promises to redefine Dubai’s skyline with its botanical gardens, thermal pools, and cultural spaces.

Located in Zabeel Park, beside the Royal Palace, the project aims to welcome 1.7 million visitors annually, offering a holistic wellbeing experience. ‘Dubai is a city that understands the future must be built with wellbeing at its core,’ said Robert Hanea, founder and CEO of Therme Group. ‘We are shaping how cities can integrate nature, water, and culture to elevate quality of life at scale.’

Elizabeth Diller, founding partner of DS+R, described the structure as ‘an oasis in the sky,’ featuring stacked botanical gardens and thermal pools. The resort will recycle 90% of the water used in its thermal pools, with 80% of cooling needs met through clean energy sources. By night, the spaces will host music, artistic performances, and cultural events, creating a vibrant atmosphere that contrasts with the relaxing ambiance of the day.

‘Each island is a platform for thermal pools, decks, and verdant indoor and outdoor vegetation; each offers a distinctive atmosphere,’ Diller added. ‘Guests are immersed in unique environments—warm and cool, wet and dry, the intense heat of saunas and steam rooms, and the ambient temperature of thermal pools and cool mineral pools.’

Therme Dubai is one of several major architectural projects set to transform the city. The Burj Azizi, the world’s second-tallest skyscraper at 725 meters (2,379 feet), is under construction and expected to be completed by 2028. It will feature apartments, a ‘seven-star’ hotel, and a vertical shopping mall. Additionally, the world’s tallest hotel, at 365 meters (1,200 feet), is set to open this year with over 1,000 rooms and suites across 82 floors.