A £27 billion "eco town" in the centre of Dubai and a £30 billion coastal city just 25 minutes from Dubai International airport are being hailed as major developments for the region.
The Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Gardens eco town will be located on a plot of over 850 million square feet. About 73% of the development will be dedicated to green and open spaces and 10% will be allocated to waterways.
UAE Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said the project aims to preserve the environment and increase greenery in Dubai. It is in keeping with new guidelines introduced in January 2008 for all new commercial and residential property in Dubai to be built using sustainable building methods and materials.
The new development will be divided into four differently themed areas – wisdom, nature, humanity and commerce; with all four having an iconic building as its centerpiece as well as commercial, educational and residential property for sale.
Hashim Al-Dabal, chairman of Dubai Properties, said they would finance the initial work on the project and seek outside investment to complete the project.
Along the coast the Al Zorah scheme for a self-contained city is the brainchild of the government of Ajman and urban planning giant Solidere International.
Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaim, UAE Supreme Council Member, Ruler of Ajman and chairman of the Al Zorah Development Company, said it combines tradition and innovation. 'Al Zorah is a milestone for Ajman. It is already a sought-after destination for high-value investors and now Ajman is entering a new chapter in its development. Al Zorah is a truly spectacular project that will become an international destination.'
Dr Nasser Chammaa, CEO and chairman of Solidere International, said; 'It is an ambitious project, intended to transform Ajman into one of the region's most sought-after places to live, work and play, in an urban environment that also ensures energy conservation and sustainability for future generations.
Green space within the city will be maximised and residences grouped in waterfront "villages" with a sense of community living. There will be plenty of public transport facilities, as well as walkways and cycle paths to encourage residents to leave their cars behind. The use of shade and energy-efficient construction techniques and materials aim to limit the use of energy on-site.
