kalbod studio envisions sustainable healthcare island in dubai

Creating a futuristic medical oasis in Dubai, Kalbod Studio envisions a multi-functional floating complex that centers around providing quality healthcare services while fusing cutting edge technology and sustainable design principles, and embracing the unique geographic and social conditions of the region. The new Dubai Healthcare City island, shaped like a crescent and infused with Islamic geometric design elements, will be divided into five layers to function as a self-contained complex with its own underwater transportation system, green-lined residences for patients seeking treatment, and educational and development facilities.

all images courtesy of Kalbod Studio

Dubai Healthcare City's site will follow a crescent shape, synonymous to Dubai's symbolic plan of the Palm Island, the geometry of the iconic Burj al Arab, and the religious elements of the Islamic lunar month. For the grid design and the higher levels, the team at Kalbod Studio draws on the abstract combination of parametric forms and Islamic geometry patterns. Adopting a futuristic approach to transportation, an underwater infrastructure including a monorail system and electric cars, will leave the island free for pedestrians to roam. Different stations will also be designated at every part of the island for efficient movement.

Above land, the program is configured into three key zones, with education and research in the middle, and medical and residential zones flanking them. Suspended paths between them will provide fresh air flow, double as green spaces, and make it possible to walk along the island at different levels and enjoy unique views of Dubai and the Persian Gulf.

Kalbod Studio conceptualizes Dubai's next landmark

The center of the island will be marked by a core skyscraper spanning an area of one million square meters, divided into two general parts: the 670,000 sqm base which houses the educational activities, and the 330,000 sqm crescent which is dedicated to functions such as the exhibition hall, research and development department, science and technology park, library, and exhibition of digital achievements. 14 towers with medical functions will follow this, and 24 hotels will be located on the two ends of the island to symmetrically frame the core skyscraper. Kalbod Studio will line all of the structures with terraces and rooftops housing a variety of vegetation to bring in ample shade, light, and natural ventilation. In addition, they will contribute to improving Dubai's air quality.

a core skyscraper marks the center of the island's symmetrical skyline

infused with green spaces to improve air quality and wellbeing

suspended pathways double as green spaces for ventilation

an underwater transportation system frees the space up for pedestrians

Dubai Healthcare City island will be shaped like a crescent and infused with Islamic geometric design forms

24 hotels will be located on the two ends of the island to house those seeking treatment

project info:

name: Dubai Healthcare City architecture: Kalbod Studio

design team: Mohamad Rahimizadeh, Mohamad Ramezankhani, Mohamadreza Ghasemi, Yahya Bassam, Ziba Baghban

location: Dubai, UAE

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: ravail khan | designboom