The Dubai International Finance Centre (DIFC) is an established economic development zone of approximately 45 hectares in central Dubai. Its masterplan includes a central linear retail area known as Gate Avenue.

WME delivered structural engineering, building services and infrastructure engineering for Gate Avenue, under lead designer RMJM Architects. We were also acting as the architect of record (AOR) for the project.

The area serves as a link to previously separated developed plots. Services infrastructure is located in existing tunnels and a structural plank system is in place.

We worked closely with the client and the architect to review and document the extant services provision and foundation works. The idea was to ensure that the new 60,000 sqm mixed retail and food/beverage scheme got the best value from retention of the installations, which were being developed further as required.

The site is landlocked, with a utility building located on an adjacent plot, and there were limitations on the number of basements allowed. By largely servicing the tower from the second site, we were able to unlock many of the issues raised in achieving relevant approvals and in construction coordination. District cooling is not available here, so the project’s chillers are also located on the adjacent site.