Dubai-based development company Meraas Holding has unveiled the blueprint for Dubai Parks & Resorts project that is set to take shape in Jebel Ali.
Launched under the directive of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai Parks & Resorts has been designed as a mega leisure and entertainment destination to serve the regions that are within an eight hour flying distance from Dubai.
Dubai Parks & Resorts articulates Dubai’s Tourism Vision 2020, which under the directives of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum sets the guidelines for Dubai to double its annual visitor numbers from 10 million in 2012 to 20 million in 2020, and increase the economic contribution of the tourism sector.
Since the announcement of the planned investment of AED10 billion in 2012, Meraas Holding has made substantial progress towards finalising key components and partnerships with global movie studios, construction partners and world class theme park operators for the delivery of Dubai Parks & Resorts.
The first phase of Dubai Parks & Resorts will comprise three theme parks: Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and LEGOLAND Dubai. The development will also feature Riverpark – a grand entrance plaza and Lapita, a family themed hotel. The first phase is scheduled for completion in 2016. Ground work commenced on site in February 2014.
Raed Al Nuami has been appointed CEO of Dubai Parks & Resorts Limited, the newly formed Meraas subsidiary.
“Meraas is committed to developing new concepts to build Dubai’s position as one of the world’s great new cities. Dubai Parks & Resorts has been designed as the first of its kind entertainment destination that simultaneously opens the gates of three theme parks. The project will feature leading intellectual properties from elite industry players to create leisure and entertainment concepts that are expected to draw more than five million residents and tourists annually. We are confident our efforts will contribute to achieving the Dubai Tourism Vision 2020 and become the pride of our nation. At Meraas, we are excited to signal the start of an ambitious destination that is anticipated to generate thousands of new jobs as an international entertainment hub,” says Abdulla Al Habbai, chairman of Meraas Holding.