fbpx
Close

The design behind Dubai’s iconic Clock Tower

Dubai's clock tower is one of the emirate's oldest architectural landmarks

Dubai Clock Tower design

Built in the early 1960s, the Clock Tower is one of the UAE’s oldest architectural landmarks. This iconic structure once sat at the crossroads of all traffic going between Deira and Dubai.

According to newspaper reports, the idea and concept sketch for the landmark came from Otto Bulard of AST, who was involved with the construction of Zabeel Palace.

Architect Zaki Al-Homsi of Architecture Design Construction (ADC) then developed and built the final design.

The charm of the simple arched structure, also known as Deira Clock Tower, lies in its purity and simplicity.

Made from concrete and unembellished with unnecessary decoration, the tower performed multiple tasks. It indicated the time, aided traffic flow and also served as a functional landmark. The design incorporates flowing arches, which converge together to hold the clock, while not obstructing the view of traffic circulating around the roundabout. A basic water fountain was included at the base of the structure.

The clock at the centre of the concrete structure is said to have been a gift to the late Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum (1912-1990) – the visionary and wise Dubai Ruler and UAE Vice-President.

It’s reported that just over two dozen construction workers mixed the concrete by hand and built the arched monument in under a year. Unfortunately, as they used unwashed salty beach sand, the structure soon suffered from severe corrosion and had to undergo a major rebuild in the 1970s to restore it to its original strength and beauty. The four clock faces have been replaced, and the structure has been fitted with high-tech GPS sensors.

Dubai is to protect its ‘Modern Heritage’ buildings built in the 1970s and ‘80s – including the Clock Tower and the World Trade Centre (now known as Burj Rashid) – that contribute to the city’s modern shape. The move is part of the concept of preserving the contemporary heritage of the emirate.

Dubai Municipality is registering the Clock Tower and other old buildings with UNESCO in a bid to obtain World Heritage status for these iconic structures. Dubai Creek was recently granted such status.

A team has been appointed to identify the buildings that represent the city’s ‘modern heritage’ and classify them in line with international architectural and urban standards. The initiative follows the global trend of restoring and preserving cultural heritage.

“Preserving our urban heritage and culture that we have inherited through generations, and the intellectual and creative legacy it has presented to us, is a historical responsibility,” said Dawoud Al Hajri, Director General of Dubai Municipality.

“Modernity is only complete by absorbing history, learning from its lessons, and celebrating what it has given us as evidence that conveys to us a picture of the past that our forefathers and grandfathers lived, and how they made the first beginnings of our modern renaissance,” added Al Hajri.

The design of the Clock Tower was faithful to its era – and is a perfect example of form following function. It has passed the test of time and continues, over fifty years since its unveiling, to be a distinctive, functional and cherished landmark. 

The Latest
March 28, 2025

Things to Covet- March 2025

Objects to add a unique sense of playfulness and personality to your space

March 27, 2025
TREDEX at ISH 2025

TREDEX Makes a Bold Debut at ISH 2025

A Defining Moment for Saudi Innovation

March 27, 2025

The Touch: Spaces Designed for the Senses

A journey through sensory-driven design

March 27, 2025
XYZ Design

Çamlıca House

Designed by Istanbul-based studio XYZ Design, this unique log house has been transformed into a full-time residence with soul

March 26, 2025
Melissa & Miller Philadelphia home

A Home Alive in Colour

Melissa & Miller infuse artful vibrance into a French Colonial home

March 26, 2025

Sculpting Sustainability

We take you inside a restaurant that hosts the world’s largest 3D-printed interiors

March 25, 2025

Salone del Mobile 2025

Here’s what to expect at the 63rd edition of the fair in Milan this year

March 24, 2025
Dragonfly

Step into Dragonfly at the Lana Promenade, Dorchester Collection

A hybrid of traditional Asian elements merge with hyper - modern aesthetics at Dragonfly

March 24, 2025
Salone del mobile panel identity

identity to host panel at Salone del Mobile.Milano 2025

identity will host an exclusive panel at the Porro exhibit during the 63rd edition of the international fair

March 24, 2025

A Sleek Finish

Italian craftsmanship meets contemporary sophistication in a harmonious blend of form, function and luxury

March 21, 2025
The bathroom at the Desert Pool villas at Bab AL Shams Luxury Desert Resort designed by Delfina Design.Image by Natelee Cocks

A New Room for Wellness at Home

Bathrooms are increasingly becoming spaces for relaxation and self-care – and architects and interior designers are taking note