First Look: Intercontinental Dubai – the Heart of Europe on the World Islands Unveils New Design

Kleindienst Group, the developer behind The Heart of Europe (THOE), and IHG Hotels & Resorts are excited to reveal the new design of InterContinental Dubai – The Heart of Europe on Dubai’s World Islands. The comprehensive design overhaul marks a bold new chapter for the 466-key property, which will become the first luxury family resort on the World Islands set to be operational during winter 2027.

The architectural evolution, led by acclaimed New York-based firm HWKN Architecture, introduces a striking visual identity that bridges Italian inspiration with cutting-edge material innovation. The transformation centres on a pioneering exterior feature: a dramatic mesh "curtain" crafted from Teflon-coated fibreglass, which will be in gentle motion with the wind, creating a living façade unlike anything else in the region.

A Living Façade

The exterior redesign represents one of the most innovative architectural features to be introduced to Dubai's hospitality landscape. The Teflon-coated fibreglass curtain creates an ever-changing interplay with natural elements, whilst the building's pale, cream limestone-inspired finish evokes the sun-washed patina of ancient Italian palazzi. This modern interpretation of classical Italian architecture captures the weathered elegance of Mediterranean coastal towns, honouring centuries of architectural tradition through contemporary materials and techniques.

Interiors Reimagined

The hotel's common spaces and guest accommodations have been completely reconceived to deliver a sophisticated family resort experience. The new lobby design achieves contemporary grandeur through a careful balance of stone columns softened by cascading drapes, creating spaces that feel both monumental and intimately welcoming.

Restaurants

The resort will feature nine distinctive food and beverage outlets, each celebrating Italian cuisine in all its forms, from fine dining to traditional osteria-style dining. Two venues will showcase an inventive fusion of Italian and Asian culinary traditions, whilst the remaining outlets offer diverse interpretations of Italy's rich gastronomic heritage, tracing flavours from the northern peaks to the sunlit heel of the Italian boot, all designed to complement the property's coastal Italian aesthetic.

Purpose-Built for Families

The resort's three wings – Bellissima, Dolce Vita, and Felicità – will offer expansive views across the sea, beach and pools and are complemented with the most spacious units called Portofino Residences. These private sanctuaries, branded residences managed by InterContinental, have been designed for those seeking the comfort of a permanent retreat with the privileges of five-star hospitality. Guest rooms will embrace a palette of sun-faded neutrals drawn directly from Portofino's iconic buildings and piazzas, creating spaces that feel authentically connected to their Italian inspiration whilst delivering modern comfort.

Family-focused amenities will include Kingdom of Portofino, a dedicated children's club, with programmes inspired by child-led Montessori learning methods, and La Donna, an exclusive ladies' club and spa. Additional facilities comprise a state-of-the-art gym, a distinctive lobby featuring 514 aquariums, and comprehensive spa facilities complete with a Snow Room and direct access to the 700-metre beach.

Haitham Mattar, Managing Director – India, Middle East and Africa, IHG Hotels & Resorts, commented:"We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with The Heart of Europe to bring our inaugural 'InterContinental Resort' in Dubai, marking a milestone in IHG Hotels & Resorts portfolio and are confident in our partnership with Kleindienst Group in offering unique guest stays within a dynamic flagship location."

Josef Kleindienst, Founder and Chairman of Kleindienst Group said: "This design transformation embodies The Heart of Europe's commitment to delivering truly experiential hospitality. We're creating more than beautiful spaces, we're crafting memorable, emotional guest journeys for families. Every design decision has been made with the goal of creating lasting memories and meaningful connections."

Matthias Hollwich, Founder and Principal Architect at HWKN further added: “For the InterContinental Dubai, we applied cutting-edge AI-enhanced design methodologies that embody HWKN’s commitment to technology-driven creativity. The result merges the European quality of life with Dubai’s spirit of luxurious hospitality. Together with our visionary clients, we shaped a building with personality, contextual depth, and emotional resonance — an unforgettable destination that will inspire and delight visitors for years to come.”

InterContinental Dubai – The Heart of Europe promises to redefine luxury family hospitality in Dubai, blending architectural innovation, Italian-inspired design, and world-class amenities to create a truly immersive experience.

As the resort prepares to open during winter 2027, it stands as a testament to The Heart of Europe’s commitment to visionary hospitality and unforgettable family experiences.