Book excerpt: New developments in design in Dubai have changed forever the face of world architecture. Here, the traditional Islamic culture co-exists with a radical movement towards modernity, resulting in a futuristic architecture, dominated by skyscrapers that seem to defy gravity, and constructions that embody the cutting-edge of technology. A valuable resource for architecture students and design professionals alike, this book is packed with more than 650 photographs and an authoritative text that explores the new glass and steel masterpieces of Dubai. From state-of-the-art hotels to luxury residences to the headquarters of some of the world’s most important financial institutions, specially commissioned photographs showcase the innovations that make this an area of great interest to design professionals. Superb images depict the graceful sail-shaped silhouette of the opulent seven-star hotel Burj Al Arab and convey the majesty of the twin Emirates Towers. Other remarkable structures featured in this book include Dubai Sports City, Hydropolis Underwater Resort Hotel, Media-1, and Abu Dhabi Investment Authority Tower, to name just a few.