Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Crossing

Dubai, UAE

Client: Dubai Roads and Transport Authority
Completion: 2011
Area: 5,600 feet long

The Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Crossing is a new 1.7 kilometer bridge, which will be the largest and tallest spanning arch bridge in the world. The bridge’s form, a simple arch, is the most basic of structural solutions for spanning great distances. This particular application of the arch, however, is informed by the culture, topography, light, and script of the region. The structure visually connects to the earth, and then takes a bold leap. As it descends, the bridge touches down to embrace and frame the opera house. The structure again rises up and makes a lighter arch before ending in a gesture reaching skyward. The bridge also incorporates two metro lines.

Awards:
2009 The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design; The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies, and the Metropolitan Arts Press Ltd., American Architecture Award
2009 AIA New York Chapter Design Award of Merit
2009 International Design Award for Urban Design
2008 Construction Week Magazine, Engineering Challenge Award
2008 Cityscape Dubai/Architectural Review, High Commendation Award
2008 Middle East Architect Magazine, Best Infrastructure Project