Building a new world: mini-nations for the super-rich.

AuthorWalker, Jesse
PositionDubai

Al Nakheel Properties is building a private archipelago of 300 islands off the coast of Dubai, a semi-independent city in the United Arab Emirates. When construction is completed, the artificial islands, collectively dubbed The World, will form a map of the globe. Developers will be able to erect everything from McMansions to rainforests, and the waterways will be patrolled by private security.

Reports of the project's cost range from $1.8 to $3 billion, with individual isles selling for $10 to $40 million apiece. Around 30 of the islands have been sold already, with rocker Rod Stewart rumored to have purchased the isle representing Britain.

Dubai has seen a boom in elaborate proprietary communities recently, from Burj Dubai, allegedly the world's tallest building, to another Nakheel project in progress, The Palm: a giant trio of tree-shaped islands to be filled with apartments, villas, hotels, and theme parks--enough to house more than 5,000 residents, plus tourists. Another venture in the works is Dubailand, a Disney-style "tourism, entertainment and leisure destination" slated to open in 2007. Among other attractions, Dubailand...

To continue reading

Request your trial

VLEX uses login cookies to provide you with a better browsing experience. If you click on 'Accept' or continue browsing this site we consider that you accept our cookie policy. ACCEPT