Aljada Center Hub, Sharja ,UAE

Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has emerged victorious in an international competition to design the Central Hub for Aljada, a prestigious urban development in Sharjah, UAE. Sharjah, widely recognized as the cultural capital of the Arab world, will soon feature ZHA’s innovative and signature architectural style, which blends flowing, sculptural forms with functional urban design. The design concept draws inspiration from the natural phenomenon of water droplets hitting the earth’s surface, a motif reflected in the array of circular structures that form the Central Hub. These structures are specifically engineered to harness and direct the prevailing winds into public spaces, providing natural cooling during the hot summer months of the United Arab Emirates. The public areas will be enhanced by water features that utilize recycled water, alongside tensile canopies that create microclimates, supporting the growth of native plant species and offering a comfortable environment for visitors. With a total budget of AED24 billion (USD6.5 billion), the Central Hub spans 1.9 million square feet and will serve as the focal point of the expansive 24 million square foot Aljada masterplan, developed by ARADA. Located at the heart of Sharjah, the Aljada development prioritizes green spaces, walkability, and a human-centered approach to urban design. The Central Hub will include a variety of spaces aimed at fostering community engagement, including an adventure activity zone, a food market featuring local delicacies, and outdoor event venues, all designed to create a dynamic and vibrant public realm.

The selection of ZHA’s design was praised by ARADA’s Chairman, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, who noted that while all participating firms produced excellent designs, ZHA’s proposal best aligned with their vision for a connected and purposeful destination. “The integrated architectural approach of Zaha Hadid Architects complemented our idea for Aljada’s Central Hub as a linked destination,” he commented.The Central Hub, which represents a key component of the larger Aljada development, is expected to establish Sharjah as a new cultural and leisure hub in the UAE. Phase One of the Central Hub is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of next year, marking the beginning of the transformation of the Aljada site into a major entertainment and lifestyle destination. The architecture of the Central Hub is designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating natural cooling techniques and maximizing the use of green spaces. The 1.9 million square foot hub includes a large central plaza with a public observation tower and extensive public spaces. A significant portion of the project—732,000 square feet—will be dedicated to gardens and public squares, while one-fifth of the entire complex will be allocated to a community park featuring thousands of carefully selected native trees and plants.

Construction for the first phase is already underway and will include family-friendly features such as a food truck village, an outdoor movie theater, a skate park, and other recreational facilities. Arada expects to complete the entire Central Hub by 2022, providing a wide range of amenities for residents and visitors alike. Sustainability is central to the design philosophy of the project. HRH Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal, Vice Chairman of Arada, emphasized the importance of environmental responsibility, stating that the design seeks to preserve local wildlife and ecosystems while minimizing environmental impact. “Sustainability is absolutely central to Arada’s vision, and that has been reflected in the Central Hub’s design,” he noted. Johannes Schafelner, Project Director at Zaha Hadid Architects, expressed pride in collaborating with Arada on such a landmark project, highlighting the harmonious integration of design with the environment. “Aljada’s Central Hub is an example of how conscious design can work with the environment to create a truly unique and inspirational focus for its community,” he said. The Central Hub’s first phase will also include the Aljada Community Center, a water play area, and extreme sports facilities such as a climbing wall and skate park. Further phases of the project will introduce additional attractions, including a family-oriented “Edutainment” complex with virtual reality experiences and a science and discovery center for children. The development will also feature shopping areas, a movie theater, and a community park with sports facilities such as basketball and tennis courts.

Through its thoughtful design, the Aljada masterplan prioritizes walkability, green spaces, and a seamless integration of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. The Central Hub will serve as a model for sustainable, human-centered urban development, providing a vibrant community where people can live, work, and play.

In conclusion, the Central Hub of Aljada, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, represents a bold step forward in urban planning and architectural innovation for Sharjah and the UAE as a whole. With its unique design inspired by natural elements and its focus on sustainability, the project aims to create a vibrant, connected space that fosters community interaction while respecting the environment. The integration of cooling systems, green spaces, and multifunctional public areas ensures that the Central Hub will be a year-round destination, offering both residents and visitors a dynamic, sustainable, and culturally enriching experience. As a key component of the broader Aljada development, the Central Hub is poised to redefine the urban landscape of Sharjah, establishing it as a forward-thinking, world-class destination for leisure, commerce, and cultural exchange.

References:

1. https://www.architectmagazine.com/project-gallery/central-hub_o

2. https://www.archdaily.com/890341/zaha-hadid-architects-uae-central-hub-inspired-by-wa ter-droplets