Closer and closer to RákosDubai, this is how Budapest may look like

A map of the newly planned RákosDubai district in Budapest has been unveiled. The Hungarian capital may undergo a complete transformation if the project follows through. 

The government has partnered with Dubai-based giant Emaar Properties for the investment in Budapest’s Rákosrendező area. The ambitious project aims to include the construction of 220-240-metre-high buildings, which will shape an entirely new part of the city.

“You can’t build mediocre things in Budapest. When the project is completed, it won’t be a Mini Dubai but rather a Maxi Dubai,” stated Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Construction Minister János Lázár reassured that only developments that meet Budapest’s standards will be approved.

The development of the Mol Campus has already initiated a trend of high-rise buildings in Budapest, and the Dubai project is expected to further advance this trend. However, it has sparked controversy. Emaar Properties, known for developing the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, brings the possibility of a similarly impressive tower to Hungary.

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In response to the government’s investment in RákosDubai, Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony expressed his concerns on his Facebook page, stating, “The government’s plan for RákosDubai is deeply flawed because rather than a luxury investment protected by an international treaty, what we truly need is a Parkváros that serves the interests of the people of Budapest.”

Mayor Karácsony emphasised the importance of addressing the issue of high-rise buildings. He conveyed his unease with the visual plans, which indicate how the Hungarian government and the Dubai contractor envision the project. “The proposed 220-240-metre high buildings will not only impact Heroes’ Square and Andrássy Avenue but will also fundamentally change the entire city of Budapest,” he remarked.

Furthermore, Mayor Karácsony highlighted that contrary to the VálaszOnline article, there is even the possibility of buildings as tall as 460 metres, an issue of significant concern. He stressed the need to protect Budapest’s heritage, including the preservation of its skyline. “Without proper consultation with the people of Budapest, there can be no consideration for constructing buildings of this magnitude, whether in Rákosrendező or elsewhere,” he concluded.

Photo: Facebook/Karácsony Gergely

Photo: Facebook/Karácsony Gergely

Photo: Facebook/Karácsony Gergely