Alabbar proposes US$5 billion Bangkok development with landmark tower

Mohamed Alabbar, founder of Emaar Properties and Eagle Hills, has outlined a proposed US$5 billion development in Bangkok, potentially featuring the world’s tallest tower. The plans remain subject to an agreement, with the tower’s height dependent on regulations and government approval.

Speaking to THE STANDARD WEALTH, Alabbar said his company had examined Bangkok investment opportunities for four years and spent approximately 18 months negotiating the deal. Eagle Hills would take the initial lead, while Emaar could become involved later in the hotel and retail portions.

The proposal covers approximately 20 to 30 rai of leased land at an undisclosed Bangkok location. It would combine homes, shops, offices and hotels, with a tower as its central landmark. Alabbar said the architecture should express Thai identity, and Thai architects were expected to take leading roles.

Alabbar put the development period at around three to five years. Detailed design work and permit applications would occupy the first year, with construction expected to start approximately 18 months into the process.

Thailand would be Eagle Hills’ first Southeast Asian investment destination. Alabbar said the company assessed opportunities over the long term, with its projects typically having development horizons of 10 to 15 years.

He also expressed interest in buying or leasing approximately 3,000 to 4,000 rai of coastal land for a large resort in Thailand. Separately, he said Eagle Hills would consider participating in the redevelopment of Khlong Toei Port if the government made the site available to private investors.