Dh5m underwater villas on Dubai’s The World islands

First they built artificial islands off the coast of Dubai. Now the next stage is homes that will be partially submerged.

A developer is to build villas that have two floors above water level and one beneath on a cluster of six islands on The World islands project, known as the Heart of Europe.

Invitations for Saturday’s private launch have been sent out to potential buyers.

The developer, Kleindienst Group, said the 1,700 sq ft villas, expected to be finished in 2017, have an initial price of Dh5 million.

A spokesman described the Heart of Europe as a “hospitality development that draws together the very best of European designs, heritage and entertainment”.

Joseph Kleindienst, chief executive of Kleindienst Group, on the company’s website, said on the company’s website: “Our vision is to create an elegant, European lifestyle experience where every detail is underscored by luxury and perfection and draws from the very best of European designs.”

And for anyone keen to take the plunge, there will be a construction-linked payment plan.

“Each island within The Heart of Europe takes inspiration from some of Europe’s most captivating locations,” said the developer.

“This is a development that merges the continent’s magnificent history of culture, art and traditions into one unparalleled island destination – truly bridging the gap between the West and the East.”

The launch event will be held on the 20th floor of Arenco Tower, in Dubai Media City, from 1pm to 4pm.

Nakheel’s The World archipelago is situated 4km off the Jumeirah coastline in the Arabian Gulf.