Dubai is Set to Have Two New Islands Next to Burj Al Arab

Dubai has come such a long way in the past few years and it’s certainly not showing any signs of slowing down. Earlier this year, we reported on two new developments, the Dubai Harbour and the Dubai Bluewaters Island.

Now, the Dubai Government has announced its next big project – two massive islands will be built around Burj Al Arab and will serve as the Emirate’s latest tourism hub.

 

The Dh6.3 billion project, dubbed Marsa Al Arab, will span over four million square feet and add 2.2km of beach access to the city. The islands will serve different purposes: one will be for entertainment and the other will be for a luxury resort and villas.

What will be there?

The existing Wild Wadi Waterpark is going to be relocated closer to the beach and it’ll double in size. It will be getting new attractions as well, with some of the new rides reportedly being record-breaking.

In its place, there will be a 20,000 sqm shopping mall, featuring high-end brands, restaurants and cafes. In addition to that, there will be a conference centre for events and a business hotel.

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There will also be a 1,000-seat Marine Park full of exotic aquatic animals and fish. It remains to be seen what kind of animals will be there. 

Another huge attraction will be a permanent Cirque du Soleil theatre. It’ll be home to a variety of acrobatic shows and will be able to hold 1,700 spectators. All shows will be created by the circus production company and some are promised to be exclusive to Dubai.

 

As a way to embrace the local heritage, a pearl museum will also be created on the island. Inside a beautifully-designed structure, it will feature rare and ancient pearls from different parts of the world and show the Dubai’s history with pearls. Visitors will also be able to enjoy seeing a pearl farm and a pearl-inspired boutique hotel.

And of course, this island wouldn’t be complete without its own private yacht marina, a yacht club and a helipad – in true Dubai style.

Here's a look at what you can expect...

What else is there besides entertainment options?

For some lucky people, they will get to enjoy working in some of the office spaces meant for international companies.

Even better, for those who can afford to actually live there, there will be 300 ocean-front apartments as well as 140 luxury villas for Dubai’s elite. They certainly won’t have any issues with parking as there will be 10,000 parking spaces available.

SEE ALSO: The Dubai Safari is nearing completion

Visitors can get the best of it too, as there will be 2,400 hotel rooms as part of Jumeirah Group’s hotel portfolio and 400 new food and beverage outlets for them to enjoy.

When will it launch?

Construction is expected to begin in June 2017 and the launch date is set for late 2020. It’s part of Dubai’s plan to increase tourists by 2020 as well as the their time spent here. 

Here's where the two islands will be located...