Mohammed Approves AED 6 billion "Bluewaters" Project

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has approved the 'Bluewaters' project, a unique mixed use development by Meraas Holding.

Valued at AED6-billion, the ‘Bluewaters’ will be located off the Jumeirah Beach Residence coastline and is poised to emerge as one of the largest tourist hot spots in the world.

Meraas, a Dubai-based development company with operations and assets in the UAE and overseas, has also unveiled plans for the AED 1 billion ‘Dubai Eye’ that will feature as a major component of the ‘Bluewaters’ Island development. The world’s largest Ferris wheel will prove amust-visit experience for visitors and residents in the UAE and articulates Dubai’s long term vision to be a key tourism hub in the world.

Featuring demarcated retail, residential, hospitality and entertainment zones, ‘Bluewaters’  is  forecast to draw more than three million visitors annually.

‘Bluewaters’ construction is set to commence in April, 2013 while ‘Dubai Eye’ construction is scheduled for the second quarter of 2013. Hyundai Contracting and Starneth Engineering have been appointed as primary contractors for the design and construction of ‘Dubai Eye’.

In this context, Chairman of Meraas Holding Abdullah Al Habbai said: ''We have a clear mission and vision to strengthen Dubai’s global position in the tourism sector. This project will continue to build on the emirate’s reputation as leaders in the global entertainment and retail landscape. Through Meraas’s continued investment into similar mixed used developments, we aim to draw sustained investment and tourism from around the world.''

The 210-meter 'Dubai Eye' will offer breath-taking views of Dubai's exotic coastline and iconic landmarks such as Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah and Burj Khalifa. The piazza at the base of the wheel will serve as an entertainment zone and a unique venue for special occasions and conferences. Additionally, a large LED screen mounted on the wheel will create an innovative electronic platform for broadcasting, adverts, and interactive information.

Al Habbai added: ''The 'Dubai Eye' will serve as yet another iconic structure and will distinctively dominate the Dubai skyline. We are confident ‘Bluewaters’ will develop into a key attraction for the UAE, further enhancing Dubai’s status as the preferred global entertainment and retail hub. With its refreshing and well-appointed mix of amusement avenues as well as dining and shopping choices, the island city will provide limitless options for smart living and leisure.’

The destination will feature a bespoke: ‘souq’ encircled by a promenade that will boast alfresco dining outlets serving a wide variety of cuisine. The ‘souq’ will also host an eclectic mix of retail stores and a ‘food hall’ offering fresh produce in a traditional ‘market’ atmosphere.

Complementing the ambience, ‘Bluewaters’ will host a luxury five star hotel and varied residential options.

Al Habbai further added: ‘We would like to extend our gratitude to the RTA, DEWA, Dubai Municipality and the Civil Aviation authorities for their continuous support and resources for the design and preparation phases of ‘Bluewaters’ until the conclusion of the entire project.’

Connected to the mainland with a direct roadway from the Sheikh Zayed Road, the destination will deploy a mono rail system that will transport visitors to the entertainment zone from the metro station. Alternatively, a pedestrian bridge will link the island to the JBR beachfront, while a cable car will ferry visitors to the entertainment piazza.