HH Sheikh Mohammed launches ‘Marsa Al Arab’ tourist destination

WAM -- His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, today visited Dubai Holding, the global investment holding company, where he announced the launch of ‘Marsa Al Arab'.

Marsa Al Arab is a comprehensive tourist destination that aims to elevate family tourism in Dubai, as well as provide supporting foundations to host Expo 2020 Dubai, and reinforce Jumeirah Group’s leading position locally and globally as one of the driving forces behind the growth and prosperity of the tourism sector.

The mega-project is spread across 4 million sq. ft. and comprises two islands either side of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. It adds 2.2 km of beach frontage and will be the newest addition to Dubai’s long-standing track record of world-class tourist facilities. One island will be dedicated to entertainment and family tourism, while the other comprises an exclusive luxury resort.

Commenting on the project, Abdulla Al Habbai, Chairman of Dubai Holding, said, "The launch of this new and ambitious project is in line with the directives of the visionary leadership to provide the finest and rewarding tourist experiences for visitors to Dubai, as well as enhance Dubai’s position as a global tourist destination. We are proud of the vital role that Dubai Holding plays in this sector through supporting innovation and contributing to the economic diversification of Dubai.

"Dubai has achieved a global reputation for unique offerings and unprecedented achievements. This was feasible through proper planning and accurate execution of such projects, complemented by in-depth knowledge of the local market’s needs and capabilities," he added.

According to Al Habbai, the Marsa Al Arab project will also play a part in strengthening local capabilities, supporting Emiratisation in the tourism sector by providing new job opportunities and encouraging UAE nationals to commit their innovative and creative ideas to this vital sector.

"We will continue to build on our past success with a focus on the future. Madinat Jumeirah’s visitor footfall and statistics demonstrate its tremendous success over the years, making it the pivot point of our latest development. We at Dubai Holding will continue to comply with the highest environmental standards and global sustainability measures throughout the facilities in our project," Al Habbai said.

Marsa Al Arab will offer a total of 140 luxury villas overlooking the pristine waters of the Arabian Gulf, characterised by the highest levels of privacy and luxury. The project will break ground in June 2017 and will completed by late 2020 at a total cost of AED6.3 billion.

‘Marsa Al Arab’ is expected to further enhance the Emirate’s ongoing economic diversification efforts and support the achievement of Dubai’s Tourism Vision 2020. The project will position Dubai as a leading choice for business and leisure travellers alike, through the development of its tourism landmarks, business infrastructure and residential offering. In addition, ‘Marsa Al Arab’ will create new jobs in the tourism and hospitality sector and encourage UAE nationals to work in one of the sectors vital to the emirate’s economic diversification and growth.

WAM/Nour/Chris