Ho Chi Minh City is accelerating the development of the International Financial Center spanning approximately 898 hectares, extending from the existing central core (Ben Thanh – Saigon area) to the Thu Thiem new urban district (An Khanh ward), creating a “belt” of prime space for service and financial development along the Saigon River.


Within this framework, The Metropole Thu Thiem, Empire City, and Lotte Eco Smart City are strategically positioned adjacent to one another at the Thu Thiem core, forming a “riverside triangle” with direct connections to District 1 via bridges and boulevards (Thu Thiem 1, Thu Thiem 2, Mai Chi Tho), contributing to the development of the “new financial corridor” according to the expanded CBD model.


1) The Metropole Thu Thiem: Premium Residential Hub + Grade A Office Supply
The Metropole Thu Thiem is developed by SonKim Land in the heart of Thu Thiem and follows a mixed-use model combining luxury residences, commercial, and office spaces.
According to market reports, the project comprises over 1,300 apartments and approximately 100,000 m² of office space upon completion.
The project’s official website highlights a total floor area of approximately 200,000 m² and aims to make a significant contribution to Grade A office supply in the new CBD.

Pricing in the area typically positions the project in the premium segment of Thu Thiem’s core district, particularly for branded and prime-view residences, reflecting strong demand for the “live, work, and enjoy” lifestyle within the emerging administrative and financial center.
2) Empire City: A 1.2 billion USD mixed-use development featuring an iconic 88-storey tower
Empire City is a flagship development in Thu Thiem with a total investment of approximately 1.2 billion USD, designed as an integrated complex of residences, offices, retail, and hospitality anchored by a distinctive 88-storey tower.

The project has been widely recognized as a defining landmark for the Thu Thiem skyline, with Empire 88 Tower serving as an architectural statement that enhances the riverside urban landscape.

3) Lotte Eco Smart City: an eco-smart mixed-use development at the heart of Thu Thiem
Lotte Eco Smart City (also known as Thu Thiem Eco Smart City) is a landmark large-scale development in the Thu Thiem core, designed as a multifunctional urban complex encompassing premium residential, office space, retail and dining, public areas, and smart city infrastructure with a focus on sustainable development. Strategically positioned at the “gateway” connecting District 1, the project serves as a key piece in establishing a complete work–live–play ecosystem for the emerging downtown district along the Saigon River.

Lotte Eco Smart City distinguishes itself not only through its innovative “eco-smart” master plan, but also through its capacity to drive pedestrian traffic and commercial activity as Thu Thiem accelerates infrastructure development and expands its financial and service sectors. As part of the emerging “financial district,” the project is poised to supply much-needed commercial and office space and establish a robust amenities cluster that will attract urban activity to Thu Thiem, transcending its current function as primarily a residential area.
With its prominent riverfront location in the CBD core, the project—upon successful development—will introduce a mixed-use cluster of office, retail, hospitality, and residential spaces, completing the infrastructure needed to support the financial district. Lotte Thu Thiem, alongside Metropole and Empire City, forms a riverside cluster of projects that is poised to become a defining “destination” within Thu Thiem.
Why are these three projects considered the defining developments shaping the new financial district?

- Location establishing a riverside activity core: All three projects occupy Thu Thiem’s core location, with direct views toward District 1, strategically forming a service and financial “corridor” spanning both riverbanks in alignment with VIFC planning objectives.
- Creating a complete “work–live–play” ecosystem: Metropole excels in premium residential and office offerings; Empire City functions as a comprehensive mixed-use development; Lotte contributes eco-smart features and expansive retail components.
- Defining the skyline: Empire 88 Tower and its surrounding high-rise cluster create a distinctive “financial skyline” identity reminiscent of world-class central business districts.
Quick Overview: If you are interested in the “new financial street” in Thu Thiem, explore detailed information and in-depth analysis of Metropole Thu Thiem apartments for sale, Empire City, and Lotte Eco Smart City to learn about locations, pricing, and inventory by each subdivision.



