Architectural icons: “The key” that transforms tourism destiny
One evening in 1993, while sitting with his colleagues at a bar near the Yacht Club in Dubai, architect Tom Wright was suddenly captivated by the image of sailing boats off the coast. That moment of inspiration led him to envision a structure shaped like a billowing sail—symbolizing Dubai’s pioneering spirit and ambition, back when it was still a “nameless desert.”
The world’s first 7-star hotel – Burj Al Arab, Dubai
To construct a 321-meter-high tower on an artificial island, engineers decided to use 230 foundation piles, each 40 meters deep. Just the foundation alone took more than three years to complete. The project consumed $1.6 billion, 70,000 tons of cement, and 9,000 tons of steel. This first-ever 7-star hotel in the world features 202 luxurious suites (with nightly rates up to $28,000), a 78,000-square-meter Statuario marble lobby, lavish 24-carat gold interiors, a helipad, and the iconic underwater Al Mahara (Oyster) restaurant.
Once associated mainly with arid deserts and traditional gold markets, the iconic sail transformed Dubai into the Middle Eastern gem—one of the most opulent travel destinations in the world, where every traveler dreams of visiting.
Hotel Vela (W), Barcelona
Beyond Burj Al Arab and The Sail @ Marina Bay, the world has witnessed several other magnificent sail-shaped icons that have put their countries on the map. Hotel Vela (W) in Barcelona, Spain stands out along the Mediterranean coast with its private beachfront access. The Sail Tower in Haifa, Israel rises 137 meters over the port city, while the 414-meter-high Al Hamra Tower in Kuwait—once named one of the most creative buildings of 2011 by TIME magazine—redefines architectural boldness.
These iconic structures are more than feats of architecture—they are bold declarations of ambition, creativity, and strategic vision. Such landmarks have reshaped global perceptions of their countries, opening new chapters where tourism becomes not only an industry but also a national pride.
Aspira Tower – The sail of ambition for Phu Quoc tourism
Shortly after its groundbreaking ceremony on December 10 at Hon Thom, the 200-meter-tall, 36-storey Aspira Tower—developed by Sun Group—captured widespread media attention and interest from the elite. Designed by the world-renowned architectural firm 10 Design, the tower boasts a striking sail-like form reaching out to sea, embodying both pride and aspiration.
Aspira Tower – Groundbreaking at Hon Thom on December 10
Unlike other sail-inspired structures around the world, Aspira Tower is considered a true architectural masterpiece. Its elegant curvature and fully glazed façade reflect the ocean’s natural light, creating a shimmering, ever-changing look that evolves throughout the day on the island.
Its distinctive design includes a massive 20,000-square-meter podium situated on a promontory stretching into the sea—an engineering feat requiring advanced techniques. The foundation was meticulously calculated, employing deep-pile systems, corrosion-resistant materials, and cutting-edge construction technologies to ensure both structural integrity and harmony with the surrounding landscape.
Scheduled to open in 2027
When completed in two years, Aspira Tower is expected to unveil a new level of luxury leisure and hospitality in Phu Quoc. From the tower’s uppermost floors—home to fine-dining restaurants, bars, and elegant cafés—guests can take in panoramic views of the dazzling sea and sky over Hon Thom. The Luxury Collection Hotel, housed within the tower, will offer ultra-premium accommodations with 305 exclusive suites. From their private balconies, guests can gaze into the boundless ocean, immersed in nature yet surrounded by top-tier amenities such as a wave pool, children’s play area, gym & spa, saunas, fine-dining restaurants, a rooftop bar, and a 900-square-meter conference hall.
Leaving no experience untouched, the tower’s podium is uniquely designed with walkways leading directly to the beach and upscale offerings including a gaming entertainment center, a 15-meter-high grand lobby, open-air seaside restaurants, an infinity pool, jacuzzi, and dedicated children’s pools. Aspira Tower is not just a place to stay—it is a place to feel, to embrace every rhythm of island life through a seamless blend of nature and five-star luxury. It represents a new statement of elite living in Phu Quoc, delivering experiences found nowhere else.
Aspira Tower is expected to draw millions of visitors to Phu Quoc
With its sophisticated glass sail structure and a full suite of premium facilities extending from base to summit, Aspira Tower is a bold commitment by Sun Group, aiming to complete the project within just two years. Upon its grand opening in 2027, the tower is anticipated to attract millions of international travelers annually—playing a vital role in positioning Phu Quoc as a new global tourism hub and elevating Vietnam’s standing on the world travel map.
