Therme Group is forging ahead with its ambitious global expansion plans and has unveiled plans for a futuristic new AED2 billion (US$545 million, €526 million, £438 million) flagship in the Middle East, called Therme Dubai – Islands in the Sky. The destination is set to open in the UAE in 2028.

Designed by renowned architects Diller Scofidio + Renfro, Therme Dubai will be located in Zabeel Park, beside the Royal Palace in the heart of Dubai.

Blurring nature and city living, the landmark will span 500,000sq ft with a 100-meter-tall structure and is designed to welcome 1.7 million visitors annually. Construction is set to start in 2026.

Transforming Dubai’s skyline and offering striking views of the city, the structure will feature botanical gardens suspended from the air, stacked terraces and cascading bathing pools – as well as cultural events and social spaces.

“Elevated high above the concerns of everyday urban life, Therme Dubai will be an oasis in the sky. It will emerge from the lake of a revitalised Zabeel Park as a series of botanical islands stacked into a tower,” said Elizabeth Diller, founding Partner of Diller Scofidio + Renfro.

“Each island will be a platform for thermal pools, decks and verdant indoor and outdoor vegetation; each will offer a distinctive atmosphere; and each will be oriented toward the dramatic view of the Dubai skyline.

“Guests will be immersed in unique environments – warm and cool, wet and dry, the intense heat of saunas and steamrooms and the ambient temperature of thermal pools and cool mineral pools.”

Diller added: “By day, the atmosphere will be contemplative and relaxing. By night, the spaces come alive with music, artistic performances and events.”

The project is being developed in collaboration with Dubai Municipality and was approved by his highness sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Part of the Quality of Life Strategy 2033, Therme Dubai brings together Dubai’s ambition to advance its landscape and become an urban oasis with Therme Group’s leadership in wellbeing-driven infrastructure.

Sustainability goals

Therme Dubai will also harness Therme Group’s signature sustainable innovations and technologies to minimise environmental impact while maximising community benefits.

The resort will recycle 90 per cent of its thermal pool water, while 80 per cent of its fresh air and cooling needs will be met through clean energy.

Advanced energy-efficient systems and smart resource management will further minimize its environmental footprint.