Dubai is constructing the world’s tallest residential clock tower.

Dubai is about to add yet another monumental structure to its iconic skyline.

Unveiled at a launch event last week, the Aeternitas Tower will stand as the tallest residential clock tower in the world, reaching 450 meters (1,476 feet)—over four times the height of London’s Big Ben and just 22 meters (72 feet) shy of the Central Park Tower in New York City, the tallest residential building globally.

Set to become the second-tallest clock tower in the world, behind the Makkah Clock Royal Tower in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Aeternitas Tower is a collaboration between Dubai-based developer London Gate and Swiss luxury watchmaker Franck Muller.

London Gate acquired a plot in Dubai Marina, where an unfinished 106-story building stood. They knew the tower's impressive size needed a striking exterior, according to Tom Hill, media relations coordinator for the developer.

"Given the tower's extraordinary height, we expect the clock to be visible from up to six kilometers away," said Hill, noting that the clock face will measure a colossal 40 meters (131 feet) in height and 30 meters (98 feet) in width.

"We wanted to create something truly unique that hasn’t been seen before in Dubai," Hill remarked.

A timeless landmark.

The residential tower will feature 649 units, offering a range of one- to three-bedroom apartments, along with villa and mansion duplexes.

Residents will enjoy hotel-style services, including housekeeping, concierge assistance, and 24-hour valet and porter services, while maintaining the privacy and comfort of a home.

The building's amenities will include a variety of health and wellness options such as a gym, padel court, spa, yoga studio, and swimming pool, alongside arts and culture spaces like a cinema, music room, and library.

According to London Gate, the tower is scheduled for completion and handover to residents in 2027.

The name Aeternitas, meaning 'eternity' in Latin, is inspired by the Franck Muller Aeternitas watch collection, renowned for its 'eternal calendar'—one of the brand’s most intricate designs, according to Erol Baliyan, managing director of Franck Muller Middle East and Africa.

The Swiss luxury watchmaker views its venture into real estate as a chance to create a monument that reflects the brand’s commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance, according to Baliyan.

Beyond the iconic clock face, inspired by Franck Muller’s art deco-style Long Island Collection with its distinctive squashed and elongated numbers, the design will echo the brand's ethos throughout the building, said Baliyan.

Baliyan points to the use of luxurious materials like brushed and polished metals, contrasted with marble surfaces, textured fabrics, and vibrant colors. In the lobby and reception areas, the curved walls, archways, and oval furniture will reflect the oblong shape of the brand’s Curvex watch.

"Every detail has been carefully considered, from the finely crafted joinery to the thoughtfully placed lighting and furniture, all working together to create a sophisticated atmosphere," said Baliyan.

A rapidly expanding market.

The Aeternitas Tower is part of a growing trend in Dubai, where luxury real estate is flourishing and branded residences—high-end collaborations between designer brands and developers—are gaining significant traction.

As of October 2023, Dubai had 51 completed projects, a number expected to double by 2030, according to Savills Research. High-profile brands such as Karl Lagerfeld, Mercedes-Benz, and 25Hours have all announced residential developments in the past year.

"The level of interest has been phenomenal since the launch," said Hill, noting that within the first two days, London Gate had sold about 30% of the initial 30-floor release, including all available one-bedroom apartments.

Hill attributes the high level of interest to the tower's prime location in Dubai Marina, where available land for development is limited. He notes that Aeternitas is the first ‘iconic’ tower in the district to break ground in recent years.

Although this is London Gate's first foray into branded residences, Hill confirmed it won’t be the last, with the company set to reveal its next branded partnership by the end of Q1 this year.

In Dubai's fast-moving property market, off-plan sales are common, with buyers often waiting several years to see their investment come to fruition. Branded residences offer an added layer of security, especially for international buyers, according to Hill.

"With a globally recognized brand like Franck Muller, you can rest assured that you're investing in a world-class product," Hill added.