Hyder to design 44 Palm bridges

Hyder Consulting Middle East has been appointed by Nakheel to design the architectural concept of all 44 long-span bridges on Palm Deira.

Speaking to Emirates Business, Nidal Odeh, Regional Head of Bridges and Civil Structures, Hyder Consulting Middle East, said work on the project has already commenced.

“What we are trying to do is to create a totally different design compared to any other so far done in Dubai. Palm Deira is a landmark development with iconic structures and the bridges will provide a unique identity to the Palm Deira development,” said Odeh.

Hyder Consulting’s mandate is to design the bridges as impressive and aesthetically pleasing gateways reflecting the iconic status of Palm Deira, the largest of the Palm Islands under development in Dubai. A network of 26 interlinked islands connected to Dubai’s waterfront, Palm Deira is also set to be the largest man-made island in the world. 

“Designing such bridges is more than just providing structural elements which links point A to B. This project is a wonderful experience, which enables us with to be part of translating Palm Deira’s sophisticated vision for promoting a dynamic and interactive links with attractions that will help to enhance the sense of community and encourages people to interact with the local environment”, he said.

“Within the context of Palm Deira, the proposed bridges will act as important edifices to the sophisticated environs. Their designs will not dominate; instead, they will blend into the physical master plan to the benefit of the development,” he added.

He said Hyder Consulting has been able to build on its international reputation.

“Today we are a preferred partner in infrastructure development across the Middle East. The latest award by Nakheel provides a major opportunity for us to leave our mark on Palm Deira and enhance our reputation as designers of high tech and landmark bridges,” said Odeh.

The firm has been working on various developments including the City of Arabia, Reem Island and projects in Bahrain and Qatar apart from the other Palm Islands in Dubai.

“We are designing the highway and bridges for the City of Arabia, and have also designed many bridges on the Reem Island. We are also working on the Lusail development in Qatar,” said Odeh.

He said the firm was chosen through a highly competitive bidding process, which involved the industry’s major players.

“The consultancy will now work with LWK Architects to provide Palm Deira and its islands with strikingly elegant access corridors. Both the firms will together, use their combined architectural and engineering expertise to bring out exceptional design solutions for Palm Deira. We also see in this award a strong potential to be part of the detailed design phase of the project in future,” added Odeh.