‘Al Nehem’ whale shark artwork

The whale shark, called ‘Al Nehem’, quickly became a social media sensation and symbol of the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. Suspended 20 meters above Lusail Plaza, the icon soared among Lusail’s four towers designed by Foster + Partners.

‘Al Nehem’ is a suspended 20 tonne and 30 metre long icon depicting a whale shark. Conceived by Marco Balich as a tribute to Qatar’s endangered marine species, it is a symbol of the country’s interest in conserving and protecting its natural environment.

We provided overall structural engineering analysis and design for the artwork, including non-intrusive, demountable steel collars to connect the supporting cables to the main structure of the Lusail Towers.

The lifting sequence from the ground to the final airborne position had to be carefully analysed by our structural engineering team to prevent any damage to the sculpture or the shading canopies in the Lusail Plaza.

“This has been a fantastic collaboration between our London and Doha teams. Well done to all involved,” says Danilo Cava, Principal Engineer. “Thanks to our clients for involving us and to all the contractors who fabricated and executed the elements of the artwork including Stage One, Fab Pub, OPTO Projects, Hyundai and Midmac.”