Another huge project is in the pipeline in Dubai. This time it’s a 8m sq ft, $1.9bn resort and residential development, which will include the largest theme park in the Middle East.

The scheme, called Aqua Dunya, will be situated in the heart of Dubailand, the giant leisure and entertainment complex. It will include The Desert Pearl Hotel, a traditional-style souk and port district, a conference centre, 170 holiday apartments and 3,400 residential units.

Mace is acting as project manager for phase one of the development, which is due for completion in early 2008. Al Sharq Development, a local player, is funding the project.

The first phase includes the Aqua Dunya outdoor and indoor water theme parks, the hotel and the residential units.

The theme park is expecting 1.3m visitors in its first year and 3m a year once the entire development is fully built. It will feature at least 36 rides and attractions and three “exotic adventure islands” aimed at attracting both residents and tourists.

Steven Tight, Aqua Dunya’s chief executive, said: “Aqua Dunya will set new standards for international family entertainment.”

The Aqua Dunya scheme is one of 19 confirmed projects for Dubailand. Future developments in Dubailand will include the Adventure Reef theme park, two themed 400-room hotels, a golf course and expansions to the Aqua Dunya theme park and port district.

Source

QS News