Is it just me, or does there seem an inexhaustible supply of new property developments coming out of Dubai? This is the latest in a long line - Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Gardens, the Dh200 billion venture of Dubai Properties, which aims to be the lowest-density development in the region. Situated between Al Khail Road and Emirates Road on 880 million square feet, about 73 per cent of the development will be green and open spaces and 10 per cent will be allocated to waterways.
The remaining space will be built-up, mixed-use areas.
"This reflects Shaikh Mohammad’s vision in terms of being environmentally conscious and aware of global warming in the world," said Rashid Al Awadi, principal architect, Dubai.
Hashim Al Dabal, chairman Dubai Properties, said, "We’re used to projects with beaches and golf and nice houses, but this one is more about answering an enquiry about lifestyle.
"The green concept of this project is one of a kind in Dubai. And it’s amazing because it’s new," he said.
Mohammad Bin Braik, chief executive officer of Dubai
, said: "Something that Dubai Properties focuses on, as a master-developer, is life-style. 2008 has been a year of change, becoming a group company with six subsidiaries for example. This is the first and only project that carries the name of His Highness."
The exact number of units in the development is not yet known, but the maximum population will be no more than 200,000 people, in line with being the lowest-density development in the region.
Al Dabal said work on the project had already begun and would "complement everything in Dubai".
He said the first two of six phases would start as soon as details have been finalized with authorities.
I must admit to having trouble envisioning this as “green.” What are they planning to do? Green sand? Will that qualify as green?
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has his own personal wesite here, and seems to genuinely believe this is another positive step for Dubai, but I wonder if he is aware of the current labor issues in Dubai: The Emirates Economist: UAE workers riot
