CDE Students Go Behind the Scenes at Burj Azizi, Dubai’s Next Mega-Skyscraper

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From 14 to 21 December 2025, eight students had the rare chance to witness history in the making. Led by Dr Shin Yokoo (Department of Architecture) and Dr Kong Kian Hau (Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering), they travelled to Dubai, UAE, for the Burj Azizi Global University Exposure Programme organised by Azizi Developments. Bringing together students and faculty from 100 leading universities worldwide, the programme offers an inside look at one of today’s most ambitious architectural and engineering undertakings: Burj Azizi, now under construction. When completed in the next few years, the tower is set to rise as the world’s second tallest building, giving participants a front row view of the future of urban design.

A central pillar of the programme was an intensive series of expert led lectures and seminars held at Azizi Developments’ offices. Delivered by senior architects, engineers, construction managers, and project directors working on Burj Azizi, the sessions unpacked the project’s many moving parts, from architectural and structural design to MEP systems, vertical transportation, fire safety strategies, and construction procurement. For participants, it was a rare opportunity to learn directly from the professionals shaping the tower.

A guided tour of the Burj Azizi construction site brought the project’s sheer scale and complexity into sharp focus. Accompanied by Dr Yokoo and Dr Kong and led by site managers and engineers, students observed foundation works, structural systems, and active construction zones up close, while seeing how onsite logistics and safety protocols keep the operation moving. The visit brought the lecture content to life, helping participants connect theory with practice and understand how construction sequencing and coordination evolve in response to real-time site conditions.

“My thesis focuses on tall building design, so engaging directly with the Burj Azizi project helped me connect my academic research with real-world practice. Seeing first-hand the complexity of high-rise construction significantly broadened my understanding. The expert lectures also offered practical insights that I can apply to my own design work. Because tall building design is highly technology-driven, the on-site visit was especially valuable. It strengthened my interest in the field and helped me position my thesis within the broader context of contemporary high-rise design and construction.”

— Wei Yefan, M Arch 2

A highlight of the programme was a formal meeting with Mr Mirwais Azizi, Chairman of Azizi Developments. He shared the vision driving Burj Azizi, emphasising resilience and long-term thinking in shaping the built environment. Mr Azizi also underscored the importance of investing in young talent and strengthening collaboration between academia and industry. For participants, the conversation offered a rare window into leadership, entrepreneurship, and high-level decision-making behind landmark developments.

Beyond the classroom and construction site, curated cultural and leisure activities offered a window into Dubai’s urban life, heritage, and global identity. Experiences such as a Dubai Marina cruise and a desert safari created space for informal exchange, strengthening rapport between participants and hosts and fostering international friendships.

Taken together, the week bridged academic learning and professional practice. By engaging directly with industry experts and a live construction environment, students gained insights difficult to replicate through conventional coursework alone. The visit also deepened ties between NUS College of Design and Engineering and Azizi Developments, reflecting NUS’ global outlook and commitment to experiential learning, while laying the groundwork for future collaborations, exchanges, and partnerships.