If you’ve ever driven along Al Raha Beach in Abu Dhabi, chances are you’ve spotted the Aldar HQ Building—an architectural icon that’s impossible to miss. Known as “The Coin Building”, this structure stands out as the world’s first circular skyscraper, and one of Abu Dhabi’s most recognisable landmarks.
Aldar HQ isn’t just about aesthetics. As the corporate headquarters of Aldar Properties, one of the UAE’s leading real estate developers, this iconic building drives the creation of communities, developments, and spaces that shape Abu Dhabi’s future.
To know more about what goes on inside this iconic structure, keep reading and discover its fascinating story–everything that makes it so unique.
Quick Facts About Aldar HQ
Height: 110 metres (360 feet).
Number of Floors: 23.
Construction Date: Completed in 2010.
Owner: Aldar Properties, a leading real estate developer in the UAE.
Location: Al Raha Beach, Abu Dhabi.
What is Aldar HQ Used For?
The Aldar HQ Building serves as the corporate headquarters of Aldar Properties, one of the UAE’s leading real estate developers. It is home to key offices, meeting spaces, and facilities where major decisions and innovative projects are planned and managed.
Designed with a focus on efficiency and collaboration, Aldar HQ provides a modern workspace that supports the company’s vision for sustainability and future growth. It is a central hub where teams work to deliver transformative projects that contribute to the city’s development and progress.
Where is Aldar HQ Located?
Aldar HQ is located at Al Raha Beach, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Positioned along the coastline, the building offers views of both the city and the Arabian Gulf, making it a prominent feature in the area’s landscape.
Getting to Aldar HQ is simple. If you’re travelling by car or taxi, it’s easily accessible via the major road networks connecting Abu Dhabi city centre, Yas Island, and the surrounding areas. For those using public transport, nearby bus routes also provide convenient access to the location.
The building is close to several well-known landmarks, including Yas Island, Abu Dhabi International Airport, and popular attractions such as Yas Marina Circuit and Ferrari World.
For exact directions, it’s helpful to refer to a map of Al Raha Beach, which clearly shows Aldar HQ and its proximity to the surrounding attractions and transport links.
The Vision and Construction of Aldar HQ
Design Inspiration
The Aldar HQ Building was inspired by the concept of geometric balance and symmetry. Its circular shape was chosen to symbolise unity, stability, and infinity—values that align with Aldar Properties’ vision of creating lasting and impactful developments.
Architects and Builders
The Aldar HQ was designed by MZ Architects, a firm known for its forward-thinking approach to architecture. Sustainability played a key role in the design process, ensuring the building met modern standards for eco-friendly construction. From the initial sketches to the final build, the team prioritised creating a structure that was both functional and iconic.
Construction Details
The construction of Aldar HQ involved the use of recyclable materials such as steel, glass, and concrete, making it a more environmentally responsible building. Its fully glazed façade not only enhances the building’s modern aesthetic but also maximises natural light, reducing energy consumption.
The construction of Aldar HQ began in 2007 and was completed in 2010. Like any ambitious project, it came with its challenges, particularly in achieving the curved, semi-spherical shape of the structure. Engineers and builders used advanced techniques to ensure the design could be realised without compromising stability or functionality.
Architectural Highlights of Aldar HQ
World’s First Circular Skyscraper
Aldar HQ is celebrated as the world’s first circular skyscraper, a feat that sets it apart from other buildings worldwide Its semi-spherical design was an ambitious architectural choice, creating a structure that looks like a perfect circle when viewed from the front.
Its distinctive shape is not just visually striking, it also represents concepts like unity, balance, and progress. The design required innovative engineering to ensure the building’s stability while achieving its unique curvature.
Fully Glazed Façade
The glass exterior gives the building a sleek and modern appearance while serving a practical purpose. By maximising natural light, the design reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day, making the workspace brighter and more energy-efficient.
Sustainability Features
Aldar HQ is LEED-certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), demonstrating its commitment to sustainable building practices. The building incorporates district cooling systems to reduce energy consumption, efficient lighting to minimise electricity use, and an advanced waste management system.
The automated vacuum-waste system collects and sorts waste for recycling, further reducing the building’s environmental impact. These features make Aldar HQ not only an architectural icon but also a model for sustainable construction in the region.
