Introducing Yahya Jan, the visionary architect behind the world’s tallest hotel, Ciel Dubai Marina

Chances are, the stunning Dubai skyline you're admiring includes the work of Yahya Jan.

As president and design director at NORR, an architecture and engineering firm, Yahya Jan has played a key role in some of Dubai's most iconic landmarks, like the Atlantis and Shangri-La Hotels.

Currently, he is focused on one of his boldest projects yet. Set to be completed by the end of 2024, Ciel Dubai Marina, formerly known as Ciel Tower, will boast over 1,000 rooms and suites across 82 floors, standing 1,200 feet (365 meters) tall — making it the tallest hotel in the world.

A true labor of passion

For this project, Jan was entrusted with the task of designing a towering skyscraper on a triangular plot in Dubai Marina, covering only 2,500 square meters—an unusually small area for a structure of such scale.

He explained in an interview with Dinogo in 2021, 'This property was incredibly compact. It’s the kind of challenge you’d encounter in cities like Manhattan or London. The constraints were significant, yet we had to make it all fit.'

The design will feature a glass observation deck, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the city, the coastline, and iconic landmarks such as the Palm Jumeirah. Visitors can also enjoy these vistas from the rooftop pool and dining areas, according to The First Group, the project's developer.

In addition to being a sensory experience, the project also prioritizes energy efficiency, reducing air conditioning power consumption by 25% compared to typical buildings of its kind, according to Jan.

'This project represents more than just architecture,' Jan remarked. 'It's a fusion of architecture and engineering.' He continued, 'That's what excites me—the convergence of science and art, which is my true passion.'

Throughout the entire construction process, Jan emphasized his deep involvement. 'With a project as intricate as the Ciel, you can't afford to relax or assume it's complete. It's a constant evolution,' he explained.

A prolonged stay

When Jan first arrived in Dubai in 1996, he could never have imagined leaving such an indelible mark, having since designed some of the city's most iconic office buildings, residential towers, and shopping malls.

Born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan, Jan moved to the United States at 18 on a scholarship. He pursued a degree in structural engineering at Princeton, followed by a Master's in architecture. After spending nine years working in the U.S., he never anticipated leaving until he received an offer to join the Emirates Towers project as a senior designer.

At 61, Jan reflected on his unexpected 28-year stay in Dubai, admitting that he never planned to be here for so long. 'I got caught up in the energy and excitement of this place,' he said.

Regarding Ciel Dubai Marina, which takes its name from the French word for sky, Jan hopes it will achieve the same timeless status as iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building in New York City.

'The reason I love the name Ciel is because I truly believe the sky is the limit in our own lives,' Jan shared. 'That’s certainly been true in my own journey. I’ve had opportunities to grow and achieve things I never thought possible. It’s been a remarkable experience.'