Skai Holdings’ $1 billion Viceroy Dubai Palm Jumeirah hotel has won its first industry accolade with architects P&T Architects and Engineers picking up the Hospitality Project of the Year at the seventh annual Middle East Architect Awards 2014.

The contemporary luxury hotel and residential project in Dubai, UAE, which is set to open in 2016, features a striking architectural design, which maximises the beach and sea view while a signature 15-m by 15-m glass cube provides the main focal point to celebrate the arrival to the property and separate the drop-off area from a 100-m pool.

"Design is an important element of Skai Holdings' philosophy and we have worked closely with P&T Architects and Engineers to create a hotel and residence that is both unique and memorable," said Nabil Akiki, CEO of Real Estate Development at Skai Holdings.

"From the very beginning, we placed a strong focus on the overall design and elements such as the glass cube, terrace gardens and the ballroom located at the top of the hotel not only differentiate the property but also cater for both business and leisure travellers," he noted.

The luxury residential and hospitality project will offer its guests 477 spacious rooms and suites and 222 signature Viceroy Residences with breath-taking views of the Arabian Sea and Dubai’s dramatic skylines.

Stephan Frantzen, group director of P&T Architects and Engineers, said: “We listened very carefully to the client’s vision for contemporary luxury living, and studied the opportunities on the wonderful beach site for creating something very special and appropriate for Dubai.”

“The Palm is an island and it was obvious to keep in mind an island lifestyle: closeness to the elements, natural materials, openness, clean lines and the ability to enjoy the outdoors, and not the least to enjoy the breath-taking views up and down the coast line,” he added.

The award win follows days after Skai Holdings announced it had completed just over 30 per cent of the construction of the Viceroy Dubai Palm Jumeirah development.

China State Construction Engineering Corporation (Middle East), the project’s main contractor and a key investor, has now begun structural works on level 15 of the 16-storey building. Work has also commenced on the fit-out and mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) works.

The property, situated at the base of Palm Jumeirah, is just 15 minutes from the city’s downtown centre, and just minutes away from major tourist and business attractions such as the Dubai Marina and Dubai Media City as well as the newly opened Dubai Tram.

Viceroy Dubai Palm Jumeirah will feature services and amenities created especially for the mix of business and leisure guests expected to frequent the hotel and residences, combining business services and amenities with a true resort experience.  

The hotel will be home to numerous spectacular dining venues hosted by world-class chefs and a modern spa.  A beach club and a 100-m-long pool will also be complemented by children’s clubs, entertainment and sporting activities.