Dubai’s Iconic Toyota Building Set for Demolition in 2027

Dubai’s famous Toyota Building on Sheikh Zayed Road is scheduled to be demolished in 2027, bringing an end to the story of a residential landmark that has been part of the city’s skyline for more than five decades.

The planned demolition was confirmed by an agent from the real estate division managing the property, Nasser Rashid Lootah Real Estate (NRL Group). An exact demolition date has not yet been announced.

Tenants Can Stay Until December 2026

Residents who hold existing rental contracts can remain in the building until December 2026, according to the property’s management. The clarification follows social media videos showing some residents moving out and sharing memories of their time in the building.

Management said some of those already leaving include residents affected by electricity disconnections linked to a number of partitioned apartments. Further details from the relevant authorities have not yet been announced.

A Landmark Since 1974

Officially known as the Nasser Rashid Lootah Building, the 15-storey residential complex was completed in 1974, at a time when Sheikh Zayed Road looked dramatically different from the densely developed corridor seen today.

Standing at roughly 65 metres, it was among the first three buildings in the area near what was then known as the First Roundabout. Over the decades, the tower became a familiar point of reference for generations of Dubai residents.

Why It Became the ‘Toyota Building’

The building earned its popular nickname from the large red Toyota sign displayed on its rooftop. The sign was first installed in 1981 and remained associated with the tower for decades, becoming part of the visual identity of Sheikh Zayed Road.

The Toyota sign was removed in 2018 after the advertising agreement expired, but it returned in June 2022 following a hiatus of nearly four years.

End of a Familiar Chapter

The residential complex contains one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and has continued to stand amid the rapid transformation of Sheikh Zayed Road into one of Dubai’s most recognisable urban corridors.

Its planned demolition in 2027 will close a chapter in Dubai’s architectural history. Details about what may eventually replace the building have not yet been disclosed.