Many a developer have revealed plans for major projects set to pop up across the city over the next half decade, from affordable houses to luxury skyscrapers.
However Dubai Government s projects and initiatives often fly under the public s radar, despite being the fact that they will have major effects on the socio-economic development of the Emirate. Here are a few of those projects that are underway that will increase connectivity, create economic diversification, and beautify the city of Dubai.
Dubai Canal Project
Completion Date: 2017 One of Dubais most anticipated projects, Dubai Water Canal, is an extension of Deira Creek that will link Business Bay to the Arabian Gulf. This eco-friendly development will feature the 2.9 km Canal and the Crystal Lagoon in Safa Park, creating an inland coastal experience with beach and water access. Along with the network of food, beverage, and retail outlets planned to open along the 5 km boardwalk, the entire project will enhance the existing fabric of Dubai.
Etihad Rail
Completion Date: 2017 (Phase 1) This project was one of heavy discussion since it was initially proposed eight years ago, but it is finally underway. The Etihad Rail, a national freight and passenger railway, is one of the main components of the UAE Vision 2021 and Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, two initiatives set to improve the socio-economic development of the UAE and diversify the economy. The first phase of the Rail will link key centers of industry, trade, and population in the UAE, and in future phases the Etihad Rail will link to a railway network connecting the 6 GGC countries. This state-of-the-art project will not only be an economic stimulant, it will ease the movement of people between Emirates, making commutes convenient and fast (not to mention skipping traffic).
Metro Expansion
Completion Date: 2020, 2025, 2030 Dubai Metro is considered one of Dubai RTAs biggest achievements, carrying over half a million people daily on its two lines and even nabbing the Guinness World Record for the worlds longest fully automated metro network running a length of 75 km with 47 stations. Soon after the inaugural lines commenced, the extension and expansion of Dubai Metro was proposed, which are planned into three phases to be completed by the years 2020, 2025, and 2030. The initial phase is the addition of 12 stations of the Red Line, which will running down from the UAE Exchange station to the Expo 2020 site. On the other end of the Red Line, one station will be added from Rashidiya station to Mirdif City Centre, while an extension to Al Warqa a is under consideration. The Green Line extension will likely double the length of the line, with stations planned from Jaddaf to Academic City, passing through Festival City, the Lagoons, Ras Al Khor, International City, and Silicon Oasis along the way. Under consideration are four completely new lines, the Purple Line connecting the two airports, the Gold Line running through Marina, Arabian Ranches, and Deira, the Blue Line running parallel along Dubai Bypass Road, and the Pink Line running from City of Arabia to Al Sufouh. If approved, the former two lines are due to open in 2025 and the latter two in 2030. At this rate, by the year 2030, Dubai Metro and railway network will be 421 km long and have 197 stations. The Dubai Metro increases accessibility and connectivity, which in turn has a major effect on property prices. The new stations will be a huge convenience to residents already based in those areas and will also increase the value of existing and off-plan projects in Dubai along those lines.
Bluewaters Island
Completion Date: 2017 Located just off the coast of Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), the Bluewaters Island is a reclaimed land project currently under development by Meraas Holding. The AED 6 billion project is set to feature residential and retail spaces as well as hospitality and entertainment zones. The centerpiece of Bluewater Islands is a 210m Ferris wheel dubbed the Dubai Eye. The Bluewaters Island will be accessible through Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Marsa Road, and Al Sufouh Road, and a footbridge linking the island to the JBR waterfront. This project will not only attract millions of visitors, both residents and tourists, it will offer unique residences and will add value to the surrounding areas as well as breathtaking views.
