Oystra: A Landmark Collaboration Between Richmind, Zaha Hadid Architects, and Dewan

Developed by Richmind, Oystra is a landmark residential development located on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, with Dewan serving as lead design consultant, the project is set to be completed in 2029. Comprising four interconnected towers, Oystra will deliver more than 800 residences, including apartments, penthouses, sky villas, and stand-alone waterfront villas, all situated on the island’s prized Treasure Island plot at the meeting point of Dream Island and View Island.

Zaha Hadid Architects provided the overall design vision, with flowing geometries inspired by the energy of the sea and sky. Their sculptural concept emphasises fluidity, freedom, and connectivity, expressed through the undulating forms of the towers, terraces, and balconies.

As lead design consultant, Dewan translated the conceptual design into a buildable and technically robust scheme. This work encompassed ensuring structural integrity, compliance with local regulations, and technical feasibility - while safeguarding the sculptural language at the core of the design. Dewan led technical coordination across multiple disciplines, integrated digital modelling and BIM processes, and navigated permitting requirements. By acting as both interpreter and steward of the design intent, Dewan ensured that the architectural ambition could be carried through every project phase.

Dewan also played a pivotal role in shaping Oystra’s distinctive skyline presence through engineering innovation. A notable example is the development of a 40-metre curved steel truss system, designed to create a seamless bridge between two of the towers. This intervention preserved visual continuity across the architectural composition, while meeting demanding standards of safety, code compliance, and performance. Dewan also played a pivotal role in shaping Oystra’s distinctive skyline presence through engineering innovation. A notable example is the development of a 40-metre curved steel truss system, designed to create a seamless bridge between two of the towers. This intervention preserved visual continuity across the architectural composition, while meeting demanding standards of safety, code compliance, and performance. Complementing the architecture and engineering, the interior design was led by HBA and the landscape design by Cracknell.

Oystra amenities include a 120-metre crystal lagoon, Ras Al Khaimah’s first 360° rooftop infinity pool, and a layered mix of wellness, leisure, and social spaces. Over 75% of the residences are designed to enjoy unobstructed views of the Arabian Gulf, ensuring that the development establishes a new benchmark for waterfront living in the region.