Ithra Dubai says the first sliding phase of the world’s largest cantilever, or ‘The Link’, on its landmark One Za’abeel development began on 12 September, 2019.

The ‘Happiness Bridge’ is being placed 100m above ground level and extends to 210m in length forming a sky concourse that connects the two towers of the luxury development.

The Link will comprise seven steel modules which must be slid into place before they are lifted to their final position on the building.

“After connecting the first assembly to a temporary launching nose (recently completed on top of the retail podium level four in Tower A of One Za’abeel), The Link will then slide from Tower A towards Tower B. Ithra Dubai appointed a sliding and lifting specialist that used heavy-duty strand jacks capable of generating a pulling force of up to 220 tons per jack to slide both Segment A and the launching nose thirty meters along the temporary platform to the edge of the podium. This has created space to assemble the next segment. At 1,742 metric tons and 51 meters in length, Assembly A is the heaviest individual node to be erected,” explained Ithra Dubai said in a statement.

“The primary nodes for each of the bridge’s assemblies were constructed off site and delivered fully fabricated to reduce on-site welding. Transporting these nodes entailed significant planning, coordination and execution to move the individual elements to the construction site, with the heaviest weighing in excess of 45tons.”

The sliding phase was officially launched in the presence of Issam Galadari, CEO, Ithra Dubai, as well as members from the development and construction teams.

“We are excited to have reached this critical stage on One Za’abeel’s construction,” said Galadari. “The Link is an incredible feat of engineering that showcases Dubai’s ingenuity and commitment to creating groundbreaking developments.”

Looking ahead, the developer added that an immersive experience inside the structure is in its final design stages and will join “Michelin-starred restaurants, observation decks, and an infinity pool”.

Galadari added: “As the world’s largest cantilever, The Link will provide breathtaking 360 degree views of the city, in addition to the project’s prime location for residences, office space and leisure. The sliding phase of The Link is an incredible achievement that demonstrates Ithra Dubai’s talent and ability to overcome engineering challenges.”