A VISION FOR DUBAI: SHAUN KILLA ON DESIGNING JUMEIRAH MARSA AL ARAB AND BEYOND
In the ever-evolving architectural landscape of Dubai, where ambition meets innovation, few projects stand as boldly as the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. Designed by acclaimed architect Shaun Killa, this ultra-luxury development encapsulates the city’s unceasing drive to redefine possibility. Nestled between the iconic Burj Al Arab and the superyacht marina, the Marsa Al Arab is more than a hotel—it’s the final piece in a trilogy that narrates Dubai’s journey from traditional grandeur to futuristic sophistication.
Killa explains to Fused how how this project brings together fluid design, sustainable principles, and immersive guest experiences, redefining what it means to blend luxury with landscape in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Dubai is a city that thrives on pushing boundaries, particularly when it comes to architecture and design. In my work, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to this ever-evolving skyline with projects that blend aesthetic ambition and technological innovation. Among them is Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, a development I believe will leave a lasting impact on Dubai’s architectural narrative. Positioned as an ultra-luxury destination, it integrates seamlessly with the ocean and superyacht marina, offering a coastal experience that’s as sophisticated as it is visually stunning. It also completes a trilogy with the iconic Jumeirah Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel, bridging traditional and futuristic architecture in a cohesive, coastal story. The design reflects the fluid elegance of super-luxury yachts, evoking the image of a vessel gracefully heading out to sea.
When designing Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, I wanted guests to feel that journey as soon as they arrive. They’re greeted by a dramatic arch that perfectly frames the Burj Al Arab, setting the stage for a remarkable experience. The strategic positioning of the building within the sea offers sweeping views of both the Burj Al Arab and the lively superyacht marina, while carefully crafted F&B spaces enhance the sense of intimacy and luxury.
The concept behind Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab draws directly from the sleek, dynamic lines of a superyacht. For me, recreating the fluidity of water was fundamental. Modern software now allows us to craft the smooth, double-curved lines that capture that sense of motion. This wasn’t always possible, as past technology limited us to more rigid, two-dimensional lines. The residence building, with its dynamic sloping curves, appears to move seaward even though it’s stationary, capturing a sense of motion that’s central to the design.
Complementing the iconic landmarks of Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Burj Al Arab was key, but I also wanted Marsa Al Arab to stand out. It was crucial to establish a narrative that feels like a journey, starting at the traditional architecture of Madinat Jumeirah and moving through time to the futuristic, sinuous design of Marsa Al Arab. Each building along the Jumeirah coast tells a chapter of Dubai’s architectural evolution—from the traditional elements of Jumeirah Al Qasr to the timeless Jumeirah Al Naseem, and finally to the future with Marsa Al Arab.
Creating harmony with the natural environment was a priority for me with this project. Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab extends into the sea and sits between the Burj Al Arab to the west and the marina to the east. We wanted the design to blend with its surroundings, and this led to features like single- and double-aspect rooms that embrace the surrounding ocean. One of my key goals was to maintain an open sightline to Burj Al Arab. Rather than combine the hotel and residences, we designed them separately to ensure that view is preserved from the open beach, a thoughtful choice that allows the public to enjoy Dubai’s landmarks.
Elevating the guest journey through architectural detail is something I am deeply passionate about. One of my favourite aspects of this project is the grand arch at the hotel’s entrance, which creates an unforgettable drop-off experience. Unlike traditional hotel entrances where guests arrive from behind, Marsa Al Arab’s design welcomes them with an awe-inspiring view framed by the arch. The fluted soffit beneath this arch, softly lit at night, creates a warm ambiance that enhances the drama. Moving through the lobby feels like approaching the bow of a yacht, a journey that continues through various bars and restaurants, each with its own distinct atmosphere and sensory experience. Terraces with pools offer 270-degree ocean views, immersing guests in the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Dubai’s energy and ambition have greatly influenced my work. The city is known for its vision and innovation, and with Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, I aimed to reflect these qualities. From the sprawling gardens to the multicultural dining experiences, every aspect of the design pays homage to the city’s entrepreneurial and cosmopolitan spirit. We aimed to redefine ultra-luxury, providing an environment where visitors can connect with the best of Dubai’s hospitality and scenery.
Sustainability was another essential element. At Killa Design, we incorporate sustainable principles into every project. At Marsa Al Arab, continuous balconies help self-shade the glass facade, reducing the building’s cooling load by up to 40%. Greywater recycling irrigates the gardens, and much of the back-of-house space is topped with landscaping to mitigate the heat island effect. From LED lighting to energy-efficient systems, the project reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship.
As Dubai continues to evolve, I see tremendous growth in mixed-use and residential spaces. People are increasingly seeking integrated environments where work, leisure, and amenities coalesce. This trend aligns with the city’s expanding hospitality sector, as branded residences and high-quality services gain traction. Moving forward, I expect to see a shift towards densified, high-quality living spaces that cater to the desire for a “lock-up-and-go” lifestyle in luxurious settings.
Dubai is full of hidden gems, and when I’m not working, I love to unwind at some of the city’s unique dining spots. Kayto at Jumeirah Al Naseem, with its Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine and stunning views of the Burj Al Arab, is a favourite, as is Rockfish, where the beachfront setting adds an extra layer to the Mediterranean menu. Further afield, West Palm Beach and Sushi Samba on the Palm offer unforgettable fusion experiences with sweeping views of Dubai’s skyline. When I crave inspiration, I head to simpler spots, like Kite Beach for a morning walk, or the DIFC Gate Village, where culture and creativity converge.
Each neighbourhood in Dubai inspires me in different ways, and it’s this diversity that fuels my design philosophy. Downtown Dubai, with its high energy and urban vibrancy, is one of my favourites to walk through. The Museum of the Future, a project my team and I designed, stands here as a cultural icon, drawing visitors from around the globe and underscoring Dubai’s commitment to innovation.
To me, Dubai is a city of endless possibility, where even the boldest ideas can come to life. This city has profoundly shaped my approach to architecture, pushing me to think beyond convention and toward sustainable, meaningful spaces. My goal is to create environments that resonate deeply on a human level, connecting people with the landscape. I hope to leave a legacy that inspires future architects to think courageously, sustainably, and to use design as a force for positive change. In Dubai, I’ve found a canvas that has allowed me to bring this vision to life.
A Vision For Dubai: Shaun Killa On Designing Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab And Beyond For more information, visit www.jumeirah.com
