Mace completes the lifting of the world’s longest cantilevered building at One Za’abeel

Mace, the international consultancy and construction company, working with client Ithra Dubai and contractor Alec, has completed the ascent of the world’s longest cantilevered building at the iconic One Za’abeel project in Dubai.

On 24 October, the team completed lifting the final section of The Link structure to achieve its full length of 226 meters. Weighing 900 tonnes, the final portion was lifted over a four-day period at a speed of five meters per hour and 100 meters above ground level, to attach to the rest of the suspended structure.

The team had carried out the ascent of the first section, weighing 8,500 tonnes, over 14 days last August. Twenty-four jacks each supporting between 30 and 55 heavy-duty strands were used for the operation, calling for a concerted effort by a team of global experts in the fields of construction, engineering and contracting.

The lifting system for The Link is made up of Strand Lifting Units (SLUs) with three components: a hydraulic hollow jack a tensile member with steel strands, and anchorages for the load.

Jason Millett, CEO for Consultancy at Mace, said:

“The Link ascent at One Za’abeel is a record-breaking achievement, made possible through the collaboration and fantastic work of engineering, consultancy and construction teams. The milestone highlights Mace’s international consultancy capability, managing the installation and lifting the world’s longest building cantilever, and helping to deliver One Za’abeel as a new landmark in Dubai.”

Raad Jarrah, Chief Development Officer at Ithra Dubai, said:

“This feat can only be achieved through a collaborative effort of a team of experienced professionals. Mace is an integral member of this team.”

With spectacular 360-degree views of Dubai, The Link will offer tourists and residents an unparalleled choice of fine dining, luxury hospitality and entertainment venues, and will feature an observation deck and a rooftop terrace with an infinity pool.

One Za’abeel includes premium office space, 263 high-end residential units, Retail Podium, 493 ultra-luxury hotel rooms and serviced apartments and the world's first One & Only urban resort. It is also aiming for Gold LEED certification, in line with the UAE Vision 2021 and its sustainable development goals.