Over the years, as with any living building that has stood for over two decades, the Burj Al Arab has undergone various changes, ranging from minor renovations to significant additions to its beautiful interior. These changes rendered its original schematics outdated. To address this, a monumental task was undertaken: creating a highly accurate 3D scan of the entire hotel.

To avoid disruption to guests of this 7-Star hotel, the PRD Survey team worked between 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM. Source—PRD Survey. 

Overcoming Unique Surveying Challenges

PRD Measurement Solutions, a seasoned and reliable multi-disciplinary Strata survey and specialist measurement solutions consultancy, was entrusted with this significant task. Led by Chris McGinty, a Chartered Land surveyor and Head of Survey at PRD Measurement Solutions, the team encountered unique challenges.

Firstly, they had to meticulously minimize any disruption to guests enjoying their luxurious 7-star experience. This necessitated working within a challenging time window between 1:00 and 5:00 AM. Moreover, the Burj Al Arab’s intricate design, characterized by curved surfaces and setback floors, demanded utmost precision and attention to detail.

“The Burj Al Arab’s distinctive architecture posed an exceptionally challenging surveying situation,” explains Chris McGinty. “With its expansive atrium spanning approximately 60 floors, set back in intricate curves, and devoid of any straight lines within the building, we had to employ a diverse range of techniques and technologies to guarantee both accuracy and efficiency.” 

Burj Al Arab's jaw-dropping atrium with its many floors and intricate curves create a challenging scan environment. Source—PRD Survey.

7-Star Survey for a 7-Star Hotel 

The team’s approach involved using GNSS for exterior georeferencing, employing total stations for precise vertical and horizontal measurements, and utilizing a Leica RTC360 3D laser scanner for rapid, high-detail reality capture. When paired with the Leica Cyclone FIELD 360 application, the scanning process becomes even more streamlined.

“Without the RTC360, the task would have been nearly impossible to achieve the required level of detail within the given time constraints,” McGinty emphasizes. “The scanner’s exceptional speed and precision were pivotal in meeting the tight deadlines while upholding the highest standards of accuracy. Notably, due to the stringent security clearance required, we were only able to bring one RTC360, yet it proved to be sufficient to complete the job within the stipulated timeframe.”

Joe Virtudazo and Mark Venenciano, Senior Surveyors at PRD Survey, use the Cyclone FIELD 360 application to review and register the point cloud directly in the field. Source—PRD Survey. 

Furthermore, the scanning process was meticulously planned and executed. It commenced with external georeferencing using GNSS to establish control points, followed by the creation of a closed-loop traverse around the building using total stations. Subsequently, the team conducted internal traversing, starting from the ground floor and progressing upward through the atrium. Scanning was carried out with the RTC360, working from the ground level to the top, floor by floor, while ensuring the accuracy of each floor level. Precise levelling was also employed to guarantee the flatness of each floor.

Two Senior Surveyors from the PRD Team, Joe Virtudazo and Mark Venenciano, commented on the efficiency of their in-field workflow— “The Leica RTC360 3D laser scanning solution revolutionises 3D reality. Scanning at 2 million points per second and completing high-resolution scans in under two minutes, it streamlines workflows with automated in-field registration and seamless data transfer, maximising productivity while ensuring exceptional accuracy and detail.”

“We adhered to standard surveying practices, but our approach distinguished us from our competitors,” McGinty explains. “The combination of technologies enabled us to maintain RICS tolerances despite the technical and logistical challenges we encountered.”

“Without the RTC360, the task would have been nearly impossible to achieve the required level of detail within the given time constraints.” Source—PRD Survey. 

From Point Clouds to Precision

The result of the meticulous laser scanning process was a comprehensive 3D scan of the Burj Al Arab, achieved with millimetre accuracy. This digital twin offers numerous advantages, including up-to-date and precise schematics for future renovations and maintenance.

A 2D line drawing created from the point cloud. Source—PRD Survey. 

Back in the office, the team use a suite of Leica Geosystems software, including Leica Cyclone REGISTER 360 PLUS and Leica CloudWorx for Revit, to process and model the collected data. The transition from 2D to 3D representation not only provides more detailed insights but also enhances visualization capabilities for interior designers and architects. It serves as a valuable tool for preserving the iconic structure, ensuring its continued enjoyment by future guests.

“The client was accustomed to working with point clouds, which motivated the interior designers to recognize the potential of more extensive 3D data,” McGinty explains. “The interior designer now appreciates the value of having more data.”

One of the final deliverables, a 3D model of the Burj Al Arab Atrium. 3D representation provides more detailed insights and enhances visual capabilities for interior designers and architects. Source—PRD Survey.

The laser scanning of the Burj Al Arab stands as a testament to the synergy between cutting-edge technology and expert expertise. It not only safeguards a significant piece of Dubai’s architectural heritage but also paves the way for future innovations in building management and design.