First 'country branded' commercial tower announced in Dubai

Called the 'Swiss Tower,' the forty (40) storey business oriented structure will be uniquely designed to encapsulate innovation, precision and style - qualities that the Swiss business community has always been associated with.

The project was announced at an exclusive event hosted by Swiss Tower's developers and promoters, which include: Essam Al-Tamimi, managing partner of Al-Tamimi & Company along with a leading consortium of local investor, Christoph Kunz of Odette Switzerland Holdings, Premal Shah, Swiss national and vice president of the Swiss Business Council.

The project's launch is scheduled for March 2006, with both freehold and rent options.

"Developing a real country branded tower that truly represents a nation's essence is unique to this region. We chose Switzerland as the project's theme to reflect the quality, attention to detail and style with which the development was designed,"

said Al-Tamimi. "Our intention is to add another dimension of variety to Dubai's wide array of iconic projects."

The venture is supported by the Swiss Embassy in the UAE, the Swiss Consulate General and the Swiss Business Council. It is also noteworthy to mention that Peter Harradine, the President of the Swiss Business Council, first conceptualized the idea of having a Swiss tower in Dubai.

Stylishly designed to create a serene and tranquil working environment, Swiss Tower will be equipped with state of the art technology and communications systems. Huge interior 'winter gardens' with natural European trees will be scattered with numerous cafes for people to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Four duplex penthouses with amazing views will also be available.

According to Kunz, "the Swiss Tower will be a full service commercial tower ideal for progressive businesses looking to work in a productive environment and to create synergies within the Swiss Tower community."

Businesses would be able to take advantage of a sophisticated business center, enjoy succulent food at a Swiss restaurant and buy Swiss products and services through the various retail outlets on the outside of the building.

"There is no doubt that Dubai's potent regional position as a leading commercial center and lifestyle city will drive our plans forward," commented Shah. "We believe we have the best partnership and set up to make this project a great success."

The silky glass exterior of the building - transparent, with printed designs reflecting to the onlooker beautiful views of Swiss Alpine meadows - magnificently towers upwards culminating to portray an image of the vast summit of the majestic Matterhorn, pride of the Alps. The illusion is achieved utilizing specially designed glass which is further enhanced by the intricately manicured landscapes and garden areas spread around the building.

This concept was created by one of Europe's leading architecture firms, Gunter Buerk JSK, with offices in Germany, Switzerland and Eastern Europe and a staff of 150 architects and engineers.

Real estate manager Asteco has been assigned to supervise the sale of the tower.