23 Marina Dubai

23 Marina is a private residential skyscraper in Dubai Marina, along Sheikh Zayed Road. At approximately 393 meters tall, with 88 floors, it is a prominent part of Dubai’s skyline and a symbol of the city’s luxury residential development. Its listed height is also given as 392.8 meters (1,289 ft).

Developed during Dubai’s real estate boom in the 2000s by Hircon International, a joint venture between India’s Hiranandani Group and ETA Star Property Developers, the tower was designed for private living. Its location puts it near Dubai Marina’s shopping, dining and entertainment, while public spaces such as Dubai Marina Walk, JBR Beach and Bluewaters Island offer places to admire it from outside (Visit Dubai; Emporis; Dubai Things; marinadubai.ae).

History

Conceived during the real estate surge of the early 2000s, 23 Marina was intended to create an exclusive vertical community focused on privacy, panoramic views and luxury amenities. Its development formed part of Dubai’s ambition to build a globally recognized skyline (Visit Dubai).

Groundbreaking 2006, during a period of rapid urban development.
Foundation completion April 2007.
Structural topping out 2011.
Opening 2012, when it was among the world’s tallest residential towers.

Its completion, despite challenges including the 2008 global financial crisis, reflected the ambition and resilience of Dubai’s real estate sector (Emporis; Wikipedia).

What to see

Architecture and engineering

Designed by KEO International Consultants with contributions from architect Hafeez Contractor, 23 Marina has a sleek, twisting form clad in glass and aluminum. Its façade reflects sunlight and city lights, and its 16-meter-high entrance foyer features backlit onyx and dramatic glass (KEO; ArabMLS).

The tower was constructed with reinforced concrete and engineered for Dubai’s climate, high winds and seismic activity. A Tuned Mass Damper at the summit helps reduce wind-induced sway and vibration (CTBUH; Scribd).

Residences and amenities

The building has 289 residences, including duplexes and a penthouse. The penthouse includes a private nightclub and cinema. Several duplexes have private plunge pools and dedicated elevators, features described as a first for Dubai at the time. The residences also offer panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, Palm Jumeirah and the city skyline (Skyscraper Center; Propsearch).

Resident facilities include 57 swimming pools spread across various floors, a health club, fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, spa, sauna, steam rooms, jogging track, children’s play areas, business lounge and meeting rooms. The building has 574 parking spaces across its basement and podium levels (Wikipedia; KEO; Propsearch).

There are six high-speed passenger elevators and 48 home elevators for duplexes. The building also has smart-home systems, building management and automation, and infrastructure for high-speed internet (Propsearch).

Sustainability and urban setting

Energy-efficient glazing, water-saving fixtures and optimized natural lighting are among the building’s sustainability features. Its orientation and façade are intended to reduce solar heat gain and support lower energy consumption (Daijiworld).

Within Dubai Marina, the tower sits in an urban district integrating residential, leisure and retail spaces (World Construction Network).

Alt: 23 Marina Residential Tower in Dubai Marina, Dubai

Alt: Scenic Dubai Marina Walk Promenade with waterfront cafes and shops

Practical visiting information

Location and access

23 Marina is on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai Marina, adjacent to Princess Tower and within walking distance of Dubai Marina Walk (Independent). Dubai Marina is connected by metro, tram, bus and water transport.

Visitor access, tickets and hours

23 Marina is a private residential tower, with no public access, ticketing or tours. Entry is limited to residents, their guests, and people with scheduled real estate viewings through agents. No public opening hours are provided. Dubai Marina guided tours discuss the tower’s architecture, but do not offer public tours inside it.

Getting around

Metro Sobha Realty and DMCC stations on the Red Line are a 10–15-minute walk away. Pay with a Nol card; fares are AED 3–4 (marinadubai.ae).
Tram Mina Seyahi and Marina Towers are nearby stops, with connections to the metro (marina-beach.ae).
Bus Routes 8, 84 and N55 serve the area. Fares are paid using a Nol card.
Car The area is accessible from Sheikh Zayed Road. Dubai Marina Mall has parking, but availability is limited.
Water transport Canal ferries run between Dubai Marina Mall and Walk Station. Water taxis and yacht charters are also available.
On foot Dubai Marina Walk is a pedestrian-friendly promenade connecting nearby attractions.

Accessibility and security

Dubai Marina and 23 Marina provide ramps, elevators and accessible entrances (marina-beach.ae). The building has 24-hour security and concierge service, CCTV and controlled access.

Tips

Use a Nol card for public transport.
Arrive early for parking at Dubai Marina Mall and avoid driving during rush hour.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
In summer, plan outdoor activities for mornings or evenings.
Dress modestly in public; swimwear is for pools or beaches (Bayut).
Respect local customs: avoid public displays of affection and, during Ramadan, eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.
Exterior and public-area photography is allowed; avoid photographing residents without consent. Drones require permits.
Dubai is very safe, but use common sense and respect building security protocols.
Wi-Fi and mobile coverage are excellent.
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; around 10% is customary.
Alcohol is available only in licensed venues.

Nearby places

Dubai Marina Walk A nearby promenade with waterfront views.
Dubai Marina Mall Shopping, cinema and dining (marinadubai.ae).
Pier 7 Seven levels of international dining (Independent).
JBR Beach and The Beach at JBR Beachfront destinations, with JBR Beach described as family-friendly.
Bluewaters Island Home to Ain Dubai.
Dining and retail The area offers cafés and restaurants serving French, Asian, Arabic and British cuisines, as well as supermarkets and boutiques (Traveltodubai.ae).

Frequently asked questions

Can the public visit 23 Marina?
No. It is a private residence, open only to residents, their guests or people with an appointment through real estate agents.

What are the nearest attractions?
Dubai Marina Walk, JBR Beach, The Beach at JBR and Ain Dubai on Bluewaters Island.

Are there tours inside 23 Marina?
There are no public tours inside the tower, but Dubai Marina guided tours discuss its architecture.

Is 23 Marina wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The building and surrounding public areas are designed with accessibility in mind.

What is the best time to visit Dubai Marina?
November to March, when temperatures are mild and outdoor activities are pleasant.