Al Yaqoub Tower

Al Yaqoub Tower is a prominent skyscraper located on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Standing at a height of 328 meters (1,076 feet), it boasts 69 floors including one basement floor. Construction of the tower commenced in 2006, and after topping out in 2010, the building was completed and opened in 2013.

The tower is privately owned by Daro Saifuddin Yaquob and functions primarily as a hotel, housing 224 rooms.

The architectural design of Al Yaqoub Tower was inspired by the Elizabeth Tower in London, famously known as Big Ben.

Despite this inspiration, the building does not feature a clock face like its London counterpart, earning it the nickname "Big Ben of Dubai" only due to similar stylistic elements. The design was initially met with some objections from Dubai Municipality planners who were concerned that a clock face could distract drivers on the busy Sheikh Zayed Road, leading to the removal of this feature in the final plans.

Originally envisioned as a residential tower, the project's focus shifted to commercial use partway through construction, which caused some delays. The tower was developed by Remamco Real Estate and designed by Eng. Adnan Saffarini.

It is situated among a cluster of tall buildings on Sheikh Zayed Road and is noted for its distinct silhouette that adds to the diverse architectural landscape of Dubai's skyline.

Apart from its visual appeal and height rankings, Al Yaqoub Tower also resembles the nearby Gevora Hotel, another tall structure on Sheikh Zayed Road. The building's completion during a period of economic challenges in Dubai underscored its significance as a landmark symbolizing the city's continued growth and ambitious urban development.

Over time, despite some early criticisms, Al Yaqoub Tower has become recognized as one of Dubai's notable skyscrapers and a symbol of its architectural innovation and economic resilience.