Rising above the Dubai International Financial Centre, ICD Brookfield Place stands as a defining symbol of modern commercial architecture in the Middle East. The 53-storey tower combines over one million square feet of premium office, retail, and public realm, blending work, leisure, and culture within a single, integrated campus. Designed for a post-pandemic world where flexibility and experience drive real estate, this landmark project exemplifies Dubai’s ambition to lead in sustainable, human-centred urban design.
Vision & Strategic Positioning
ICD Brookfield Place was envisioned to redefine the workplace and the urban experience in Dubai. Set within one of the region’s most prestigious financial hubs, the development reflects the evolution of global corporate environments toward flexible, collaborative, and wellness-focused ecosystems.
- Its strategic location within DIFC ensures direct access to metro connections, high-end retail, and surrounding business districts.
- The joint venture between the Investment Corporation of Dubai and Brookfield Properties positions it as both a civic statement and a long-term real estate investment.
- The project symbolizes Dubai’s pivot toward sustainable and socially engaging commercial environments, integrating architecture, art, and amenity into a cohesive experience.
Master Plan & Core Components
The master plan harmonizes corporate sophistication with community-oriented design. Developed by Foster + Partners with contributions from global engineering and design firms, the complex was built to embody transparency, natural light, and environmental performance.
- The Tower: A 53-storey glass structure offering approximately 990,000 sq ft of flexible Grade-A office space.
- Retail & Dining: Around 160,000 sq ft of curated retail, dining, and wellness outlets that encourage interaction and support a vibrant daytime economy.
- Summer Garden: A dramatic 31-metre-high indoor garden provides an all-season public space filled with greenery, light, and social life.
- Public Realm: Landscaped plazas and pedestrian pathways connect seamlessly to DIFC Gate Avenue, encouraging walkability and open access.
- Parking & Infrastructure: Seven basement levels accommodate 2,700 vehicles, ensuring convenience and accessibility for tenants and visitors.
Development & Investment Potential
ICD Brookfield Place represents a new generation of trophy assets—where architectural quality, environmental performance, and location converge to create long-term value.
The tower’s LEED Platinum certification, one of the highest in the EMEA region, underscores its sustainable credentials and future-ready appeal. The building’s tenant mix includes multinational corporations, global banks, and leading law firms, reflecting its stature as one of the most desirable commercial addresses in Dubai.
Institutional investors have also taken note, with strategic equity stakes confirming the project’s solid financial fundamentals and resilience in the face of global market shifts. As hybrid work evolves, ICD Brookfield Place remains relevant by providing adaptable workspaces and community-driven amenities.
Sustainability & Innovation
Environmental responsibility is central to the project’s DNA. The building integrates cutting-edge sustainable technologies and design principles aimed at minimizing environmental impact and promoting occupant wellbeing.
- Fresh-air circulation exceeds international standards by 30%, ensuring healthier indoor environments.
- More than 87% of construction waste was recycled, and over 30% of materials were locally sourced or reused.
- Water-use efficiency reduces irrigation needs by 50%, supported by condensate recovery systems for landscaping.
- Smart sensors monitor air quality, lighting, and energy consumption, optimizing efficiency in real time.
These innovations have positioned ICD Brookfield Place as one of the most advanced sustainable commercial buildings in the region.
Challenges & Considerations
Despite its success, the development operates in a rapidly evolving market. Sustaining high occupancy rates will require continuous adaptation to hybrid work trends and evolving tenant expectations.
- The premium nature of the asset may limit accessibility for smaller firms, creating a niche but high-yield tenant base.
- Market fluctuations, regulatory changes, and competitive new supply in Dubai’s office segment remain ongoing considerations.
However, its design flexibility, operational excellence, and prime DIFC location ensure it retains long-term competitive advantage.
Urban Impact & Legacy
Beyond its role as a workplace, ICD Brookfield Place has redefined the public dimension of Dubai’s commercial architecture. Its integration of art spaces, cultural programming, and green public areas fosters a sense of community in what was once a purely corporate district. The building’s open plaza, event programming, and curated cultural calendar contribute to DIFC’s vibrancy, bridging business with lifestyle.
In doing so, ICD Brookfield Place has set a precedent for future urban developments—proving that sustainability, culture, and commerce can coexist in harmony at the heart of a global city.
Summary
ICD Brookfield Place is more than a skyscraper—it’s a statement of Dubai’s urban evolution. By combining design excellence, sustainability, and investment strength, it exemplifies the next era of commercial development in the Gulf. Its enduring legacy lies in reshaping how work, life, and leisure intersect within one vertical community.
Project Facts & Figures
- Location: Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai, UAE
- Height: 282 metres / 53 storeys
- Office Space: ~990,000 sq ft
- Retail & Amenity Space: ~160,000 sq ft
- Parking Capacity: 2,700 vehicles
- Sustainability Certifications: LEED Platinum, WELL Health & Safety, WiredScore Platinum
- Architects: Foster + Partners
- Developers: Investment Corporation of Dubai & Brookfield Properties
- Completion Year: 2020
Perched prominently within the heart of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) district, ICD Brookfield Place emerges as a benchmark for mixed-use commercial architecture in the Middle East. With a 53-storey tower and more than 1 million sq ft of space, it blends workplace, retail and public realm in one integrated campus.
