Located in the emirate of Ras Al-Khaimah, of the United Arab Emirates, this is the new scheme for a hotel, conference, and exhibition complex designed by Norwegian firm Snøhetta. Part of the masterplan for the area being undertaken by OMA, the RAK Gateway project, as it is called, will act, as its name suggests, as a gateway to the emirate and entrance to the newly planned capital city situated 150 km to the east of Dubai
The complex’s fluid geometry is inspired by the surrounding landscape which is predominantly desert, featuring sweeping dunes and mountain landscapes. Within the form, the complex’s multiple programs weave around each other, in and through a variety of naturally shaded spaces. These intimate, protected spaces move through the undulating architecture of the development until culminating in a 200 m tall tower which will be home to a 5-star hotel with far-reaching views of the surrounding desert, gulf, and the nearby mountains.
With a total expected square meterage of 270,000 m², the multi-use development will be a conference center, exhibition centre, retail spaces and multiple hotels. Additional land is to be transformed into tailored landscapes and lush gardens. The exterior of complex speaks directly to the development’s place. Ceramic tiles, developed in cooperation with Ras Al Khaimah Ceramics, one of the world’s leading ceramic producers will afford the project with a local, yet contemporary and frankly site-appropriate (thermal) visage.
