Mohammed approves Dh6 billion Bluewaters tourism project

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has approved the Bluewaters project, a unique mixed-use development by Meraas Holding. Valued at Dh6 billion, the destination 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 has also unveiled plans for the Dh1 billion Dubai Eye that will feature as a major component of the Bluewaters Island development. The world’s largest Ferris wheel will prove a must-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. Bluewaters will also feature demarcated retail, residential, hospitality and entertainment zones. Market studies forecast that the project will draw more than three million visitors annually. Bluewaters construction is set to commence in April, 2013. Construction for Dubai Eye 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. Abdullah Al Habbai, Chairman of Meraas Holding, 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. Meraas is a Dubai-based development company with operations and assets in the UAE and overseas. It functions with a mission to create integrated master-planned communities that embody global standards of sustainability and quality. Emirates 24/7