Sensing the need for a world-class motor racing facility, the Dubai-based Union Properties group have embarked on a grandiose scheme of building the Middle East's first Autodrome and Business Park which is scheduled for completion in just 14 months.

Located centrally at the intersection of the new Emirates and Al Ain highways, the Dubai Autodrome will be a complex of superb circuits that will provide the perfect environment in which to enjoy high performance driving.

The main feature of the seven square kilometre site will be the FIA approved 5 kilometre asphalt track which will be designed and built to Formula One specifications complete with grandstand, hospitality suites, retail shops, F1-themed outlets and restaurants.

In addition the Dubai Autodrome and Business Park will also house a 1.2km indoor and outdoor go-karting track, an off-road driving course and a driver handling centre for advanced driver training.

Motor cross bikes can be raced on a purpose-built track whilst the motor racing academy will offer courses in driving single seater racing cards.

Endorsed by General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of
Dubai and Minister of Defence, the Dubai Autodrome will maintain's the emirate's high standards in its quest to be recognised as the region's motor racing hub.

Announcing the launch at a press conference yesterday Union Properties Chairman Anis Al Jallaf said: "On behalf of the board of directors I would like to express our sincere thanks and gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed for his vision and support, without which the Autodrome facility would not have been possible.

"It's something we've been dreaming off for long and now it's becoming a reality. The venue must not be mistaken for just being a Formula One track as it is much, much more than this and has been intentionally set up from a business perspective," he added.

"Not only are we offering the motoring community their own purpose built area for racing and trading, but the Autodrome will also put Dubai on the map with regard to international motor sports events."

The Autodrome will help magnify Dubai's reputation as the sporting Capital of the Middle East while introducing the one major sport that has hitherto been missing to a world class calendar of sporting events that include horse racing, golf, tennis, powerboating and rallying.

Interestingly Bahrain recently announced plans to build a Formula One circuit as part of the plans to bid for a Formula One race.

Simon Azzam, Union Properties‚ Chief Executive said: "This is a very exciting and internationally interesting project which has already attracted enquiries from international motor racing companies.

"Our aim is to provide facilities to the highest international standards and at the same time contribute towards educating and entertaining the community in all aspects of driving and motor racing. It is one of very few complete and intergrated autodromes in the world," he added.

The Business Park which is an integral part of the Dubai Autodrome will have a selection of specifically designed warehouses to cater to the motoring and motor sports industry. The retail showrooms will also cater to national and international companies in the motoring and motor sports industry.

Union Properties, a part of the Emirates Bank Group, is one of the leading property investments and real estate services companies in the UAE.