Architectural design and inspiration

Mate, this one’s a real gem—Zaha Hadid Architects have gone all out with Oystra, designing a structure that appears to be frozen in a wave. Staying true to ZHA’s distinctive style, the design flows like liquid shape, featuring sweeping curves and layered elements that reflect the natural cadence of the sea. It’s as if the building is riding the coastline itself.

The flowing architecture isn’t merely for aesthetics—it’s a brilliant example of biomimicry. Each layer of the development unfolds like a wave, creating the illusion that the entire structure could shift with the tides. You’d almost expect to see a school of dolphins gliding past the balconies.

“The architectural language draws from the movement of water and the dynamic lines of the ocean,”

the design team believes, and it’s evident in every contour. It’s not only about looks—those curves facilitate the passage of natural light and sea breezes throughout the building, maintaining a cool atmosphere without needing to run the air conditioning constantly.

In classic Hadid style, the structure’s shape is as striking as a kangaroo on the field—unapologetically futuristic yet anchored in its coastal setting. The façade showcases a rhythmic arrangement of glass and white cladding that reflects the desert sun like a glistening wave at dawn. It’s a tribute to nature, yet with a high-tech flair that only ZHA can achieve.

Project location and development team

Nestled on the immaculate shores of Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, Oystra isn’t merely showing off its architectural prowess—it’s making a bold statement in the northern emirate of the UAE. This artificial island already features luxury resorts and beachfront living, but ZHA’s latest addition elevates the bar, establishing a futuristic presence right in the sand.

Al Marjan’s prime location—just a quick jaunt from Dubai—positions it as ideal real estate for a development of this magnitude. The island’s master plan focuses on harmonizing leisure and lifestyle, and with Oystra included, it’s evident the objective has been blown out of the water. The site provides breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf, and the project’s orientation maximizes this—endless sunsets and sea breezes that’ll sweep you off your feet.

In the background, it’s a collaborative effort between Zaha Hadid Architects and the local development group also named Oystra. A bit cheeky to name the project after themselves, but when you’re delivering something this impressive, who can blame them? It’s a partnership that melds ZHA’s global design expertise with regional insight, and the synergy is visible in every curve and shape.

  • Oystra the developer provides local knowledge and financial strength.
  • ZHA offers the visionary design, stretching the limits with their signature fluid forms.

This isn’t merely another shiny tower in the desert—it’s a standard for mixed-use developments in the area. With residential, hospitality, and retail components all integrated into the master plan, the team aims for a seamlessly connected coastal precinct. Picture Bondi meets Blade Runner, but with superior parking.