Dubai is known for pushing boundaries and thinking outside of the box when it comes to innovation and development. The city has established itself as a hub for luxury and extravagance, which is why it is hardly surprising that it is home to the world’s first-ever underwater tennis stadium.
The idea of an underwater tennis stadium might seem far-fetched, but Dubai managed to accomplish the impossible. The stadium was proposed by Polish architect Krzysztof Kotala in 2015 and was built off the coast of Dubai, with a curved roof to enable spectators to watch sea life as well as the game. However, plans for that stadium were never realized.
The underwater tennis stadium is located in the heart of Dubai’s artificial island, the Royal Atlantis Resort and Residences. The resort itself is a five-star destination, featuring over 700 luxury suites, 90 restaurants and bars, and private beaches.
The stadium adds a new level of excitement to the resort. It measures around 700 square meters and sits at a depth of around 20 feet. It is made almost entirely of glass, which means that the guests can watch the players underwater from above the stadium.
The technicalities of building an underwater tennis stadium are undoubtedly complex. The architects and engineers had to create an entirely new structural system that could withstand the extreme pressure exerted by the water and keep it from getting inside the stadium. Moreover, the designers had to install the right kind of lighting to ensure that the players and spectators could see the game.
The first-ever game played in the underwater stadium featured four professional tennis players: Caroline Wozniacki, Garbine Muguruza, Tommy Haas, and Andreas Seppi. The game was played on a custom-made blue-and-white court, which contrasted beautifully with the vivid colors of the fish swimming past.
The underwater stadium is not just a technical marvel; it is also contributing to the sustainability efforts of Dubai. The Royal Atlantis Resort and Residences are committed to reducing their carbon footprint, and the stadium is a testament to that. The glass used in the stadium is made entirely of recycled materials, and the stadium is powered by renewable energy.
The underwater stadium is a remarkable achievement and a unique experience for the Royal Atlantis Resort and Residences guests. It combines luxurious amenities, outstanding engineering, and sustainability, which are all essential aspects of Dubai’s futuristic development. With its blue-and-white court, flashy lighting, and panoramic views, it offers a surreal and unforgettable tennis experience.