Dubai:
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), which has already built up mass as an office and residential enclave, is to develop a Dh1.1 billion ‘Silicon Park’ on a 150,000 square metre spread.
To be built using green architectural processes, the Park – which will be free of fuel-powered vehicles and instead operate those running on electricity — represents the first integrated “smart city” at DSO. There will also be free wi-fi to be accessed at DSO by the second quarter.
Shaikh Ahmad Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority and Chairman of Emirates Group, formally launched the Park on Sunday. “The project articulates Dubai’s Vision 2021 to transform the emirate into a smart city while ensuring that it remains on par with the latest global trends for smart cities,” Shaikh Ahmad said in a statement issued by DSOA.
Completion in 2017
Construction work has started and is to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2017.
The Silicon Park will have its clusters for office and commercial space, measuring 97,000 square metres and 25,000 square metres respectively. In addition, there will be a 20,000 square metre residential community and a 115-room business hotel.
Dubai Silicon Oasis operates under the free zone rules and covers an area of 7.2 square kilometres.
The Silicon Park project will consist of a control centre to collect and analyse data gathered through sensor devices available at the project’s site.
“Our primary goal is to provide a contemporary model in the development of integrated smart projects that provide all the elements of modern life,” said Dr Mohammad Al Zarouni, vice-chairman and CEO of Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority. “Most notably, the project supports the principles of sustainable design.”
The buildings are to feature 50 per cent “green” roofs and 50 per cent solar energy generating photo-electric panels.
“We are currently working on the implementation of free Wi-Fi within DSO, an initiative we launched in December last,” Al Zarouni stated. “The first phase was completed recently and we aim to offer wireless Internet access throughout DSO by the second quarter of 2014.
“Achieving free Wi-Fi access round-the-clock over the entire expanse of DSO, which extends over 7.2 kilometres, will mark a significant achievement for us. More importantly, the facility will help support the smart applications we hope to implement for tenants within the park.”
