Dubai will get a Dh9.6 billion International Chess City. The project, covering 64,000 square metres, will have 32 buildings representing the 32 pieces of the chess set.

"We chose Dubai to host this gigantic undertaking precisely because of Dubai's international reputation as a place where imaginative projects such as the International Chess City can come to life," said Russian leader Kirsan Ilumjinov, head of the International Chess Association.

Dubai Projects and Armada Group will invest in the chessboard-shaped real estate venture, which is expected to become the headquarters of the International Chess Association, relocated from its present site in Lausanne, Switzerland.

This will help Dubai become the world centre for the game.

Among the 32 buildings, the two "King" towers will each have 64 floors, in the design of the traditional black and white chess board. The new development will have three- to seven-star hotels and hotel apartments in which the "King" and "Minister" towers will be categorised as seven-star.

"All the buildings will be shaped like chess pieces and have the traditional black and white colours of the game.

"The 'King' buildings will be the highest. Work is now underway to collect all building plans and decide on project location."

Ilumjinov announced the plans during his meeting with Sulaiman Al Fahim, chief executive of Dubai Projects, and Dr Mohammad Raheef Hakmy, chairman of the Armada Group. He noted Al Fahim had since inception played a key role in supporting the venture.

Al Fahim said: "We intend to make the International Chess City a centre for all chess lovers, whether they are beginners, masters or amateurs. Through its design, we will have in place massive interactive screens where international contests can be held."