Dubai: At an investment of Dh2 billion, the Dubai Canal project is expected to provide a major boost to Dubai’s bid to host the World Expo 2020.
Commenting on the project after its inauguration on Wednesday, His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, tweeted: “We are continuously committed to bring our country more projects with a fresh perspective.”
The addition of a new waterfront destination within an emirate already blessed with a variety of cultural, natural and economic attractions will fare Dubai well as it competes for the highly coveted host position of the global event.
A new mall located off Safa Park, a new Crescent hotel and beach proposed for the Gulf water opening of the canal as well as commercial areas and new pedestrian bridges will help create a sector inviting to visitors who want to shop or spend leisure time.
As the frontrunner in the bid for Expo 2020, Dubai is working towards completing the Creek extension by 2017 as well as other major projects to showcase the emirate as a world class hospitality and business destination.
The Dubai Canal project encompasses new shopping and entertainment centres linked through a unique bridge. The project will add more than 450 new restaurants along with an array of luxurious marinas for yachts, and four world-class hotels, WAM reported.
At the entrance of the project from Shaikh Zayed Road, an iconic Trade Centre will be constructed comprising four levels, linking the Business Bay with the project in a total area of more than 50,000 square metres.
The development of the waterfront will also allow for the construction of deluxe residences along with pedestrian pathways and cycling tracks.
The project will boost the position of Jumeirah as a premier and distinctive destination in Dubai and attract up to 22 million visitors to the city per annum.
