Dubai is to build a new waterfront spread over 20 million sq ft that will boast the largest marina in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena).

Called Dubai Harbour, the project promises to be an attractive destination for GCC yacht owners, who own a third of the world’s largest superyachts.  

The project, located on King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, in the area between Jumeirah Beach Residence and Palm Jumeirah, also known as Mina Al Seyahi, will be developed by Dubai’s leading holding company Meraas, reported state news agency Wam.

The iconic luxury waterfront destination, spread over 20 million sq ft, will include a 1,400-berth marina as well as a cruise ship port and terminal, a shopping mall covering 3.5 million sq ft, an events arena, luxurious residential buildings, hotels, offices, retail stores, public services, restaurants and cafes and high-rise tower called the ‘Dubai Lighthouse.’

The masterplan of the new destination integrates Skydive Dubai, Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) and Logo Island into a single community.

To be developed in phases, Dubai Harbour will be completed in four years once ground has been broken.

The unique destination, which adds a new dimension to Dubai’s flourishing tourism industry, is set to further enhance its position as a leading global hub for maritime tourism.

Speaking at the launch, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said: "We are happy that this new project, which represents a unique and innovative addition to the region’s tourism landscape, opens up a range of fresh opportunities to investors."

"Dubai Harbour creates a venue for new investments that support our vision for this important sector and promises to further accelerate the expansion of the tourism industry in the UAE, which is already growing rapidly. I am confident that the project will have a highly positive impact on our entire region’s tourism sector."

"We are keen to encourage new projects and promote investments that will contribute to bringing to the region more tourists interested in experiencing this part of the world, he added.

Sheikh Mohammed pointed out that the project was inspired by the Gulf’s long maritime tradition, which has been inextricably linked to the evolution of trade and commerce in the region.

“Our region has had a long and historic relationship with the sea, and we are seeing another initiative inspired by this age-old tradition that opens up new horizons for development. We have great aspirations for the tourism sector, which is one of the main pillars of our economic development and an important source of national income,” he added.  

Dubai Harbour will offer its residents and visitors an affluent lifestyle experience including an unparalleled view of Dubai’s skyline, the clear waters of the Arabian Gulf and ‘Ain Dubai’, the world’s largest and tallest observation wheel.

The residential offerings of the project will include high and low rise buildings, waterfront villas and houses. There will also be a wide selection of retail outlets, restaurants and cafes.

The destination will also feature several hotels, one of which will offer an internal water station built under it providing direct access to its facility for guests coming by sea.

The destination will also be home to Dubai Lighthouse, a unique architectural icon. Featuring a luxury hotel, the 135-m-high tower will have an observation deck that offers 360 degree views. Dubai Lighthouse will have a solid, smooth and unfettered façade that can be used as a gigantic screen for high resolution projections and light shows.

Dubai Harbour will also offer a venue for events and exhibitions all year round with a special focus on maritime events.

These will complement the existing calendar of events hosted by the Dubai International Marine Club. Adventure seekers can enjoy a range of activities offered by Skydive Dubai.

The destination will also feature the largest shopping mall in the area, public services, a yacht club and offices.