DAR01 - Dubai Arena : Coca Cola Arena Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Project overview

The Dubai Arena (Coca-Cola Arena) is one of the largest and most advanced indoor multipurpose arenas in the Middle East, designed to host sports events, concerts, and international exhibitions. As Senior Architect and Project Manager at Dar Al Handasah, I led major components of the full design development process for this flagship venue located in the prestigious City Walk district.

The project followed a Design & Build delivery model, with Populous providing the initial concept design. Our team at Dar Al Handasah was responsible for the full architectural, structural, technical, and coordination development until the project's completion. Today, the arena stands as a key landmark in Dubai's event and entertainment infrastructure.

Responsibilities and Expertise

Urban Programming & Site Integration

Conducted an in-depth urban analysis of the City Walk masterplan, focusing on circulation, multimodal access, and integration within the expanding metropolitan context.

Assessed crowd movement strategies, vehicular flow, and event logistics.

Design Development & Technical Validation

Reviewed and validated the Populous concept, ensuring full alignment with local requirements and client expectations.

Led the schematic design, design development, and final construction documentation phases under Dar Al Handasah's mandate.

Interdisciplinary Technical Coordination

Coordinated all design disciplines: architecture, structure, MEP, HVAC, acoustics, fire safety, envelope engineering, seating layout, and operational systems.

Ensured integration of high-performance systems suitable for large-capacity arena venues.

Codes, Standards & Life-Safety Compliance

Managed all code reviews related to Dubai Municipality, Dubai Civil Defense, NFPA, and IBC compliance.

Addressed life-safety, evacuation, fire-protection, and crowd-management strategies.

Engineering Systems Integration

Oversaw incorporation of electrical substations, HVAC systems, telecommunications networks, broadcast systems, and security infrastructure.

Coordinated with specialized consultants for acoustics, rigging, and arena-specific technical equipment.

Cost Control & Value Engineering

Produced detailed cost estimates at 30%, 60%, 90% and 100% stages.

Led value engineering workshops to optimize materials, systems, and structural solutions without compromising performance or aesthetics.

Building Envelope Design

Managed the technical design of the arena's signature inclined conical glass façade, supported by structural steel framing.

Defined double-glazing specifications, thermal performance requirements, and envelope detailing.

Construction Administration & Site Coordination

Provided continuous office-based support through RFIs, technical responses, shop drawing reviews, document control, and design clarifications.

Supervised critical site activities including steel erection, façade installation, roofing, and interior fit-out.

Project Management & Stakeholder Coordination

Directed schedules, workflows, organizational charts, and reporting structures.

Led weekly meetings with contractors, the client, authorities, and specialists to ensure compliance, performance, and program alignment.