Dubai has kicked off 2017 with the announcement of a new waterfront mega development that will feature a cruise liner terminal and the largest marina in the MENA region.
Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum unveiled plans for Dubai Harbour to be located between the Palm Jumeirah and JBR.
Meraas Holding will master the huge mixed-use development which will spread over 20 million sq ft and will feature residential, retail, an events arena, hotels, offices as well as a marina with space for 1,400 vessels, increasing Dubais yacht capacity by 50 percent from the current 3,000 berths.
A 135 metre tower, dubbed Dubai Lighthouse will landmark the end of the project which will take four years to complete once construction begins.
Another standout feature of the project will be an integrated transport system in the form of a monorail that links Bluewaters Island, Palm Jumeirah and the mainland.
The masterplan of the new destination integrates Skydive Dubai, Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) and Logo Island into a single community.
HH Sheikh Mohammed said: We are happy that this new project, which represents a unique and innovative new addition to the regions tourism landscape, opens up a range of new opportunities to investors.
Dubai Harbour creates a venue for new investments that support our vision for this important sector and promises to further accelerate the expansion of the tourism industry in the UAE, which is already growing rapidly.
I am confident that the project will have a highly positive impact on our entire regions tourism sector. We are keen to encourage new projects and promote investments that will contribute to bringing to the region more tourists interested in experiencing this part of the world,” His Highness added.
Other notable features of Dubai Harbour include:
- A cruise liner terminal that can accommodate 6,000 passengers at a time.
- The projects roads will be designed to enable the destination to host Formula races.
- A pedestrian bridge will link the yacht club area to the shopping mall and Skydive Dubai.
- Jogging and cycling tracks will be spread across the project.
- Water stations in various areas of the destination.
- Three helipads.