See a city in the midst of one of the world’s greatest urban transformations as it launches the Dubai Water Canal, a 3.2km long waterway which winds its way to the Arabian Gulf from the Creek in Old Dubai through Business Bay.
Along its waterfront, the W Hotel, the St Regis and a whole range of new lifestyle precincts.
The new path effectively turns a significant part of the emirate into an island.
At a cost of AED 2.7 billion, the much-anticipated project is an impressive undertaking, involving an infrastructure overhaul of one of Dubai’s busiest areas.
But in just three years since the project’s launch, this major milestone has been reached.
The Canal itself is a sight to behold.
The 3.2km extension ranges 80 to 120m in width and cuts through Dubai’s main artery, the Sheikh Zayed Road, across Safa Park and into the residential Jumeirah district, connecting with the Arabian Gulf.
This adds 6.4km of waterfront to the emirate and creates 80,000 sqm for public space and facilities, plus a 3km running track and 12km cycling path.
There is also a mechanical waterfall, where the Canal meets the Sheikh Zayed Road bridge.
This motion-operated water wonder pumps water through the bridge in a constant flow, visible from the promenade, and can be switched off when a sensor detects a boat nearby.
Five pedestrian bridges are also available, three across the Canal, allowing visitors to cross at key points, take in the stunning vistas and observe the passage of water vessels below.
Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority intends to turn the waterway into a first-rate marine transport hub, with five stations serving six million passengers annually. Four additional stations are available in the Business Bay Canal.
The Canal is to be flanked by several lifestyle and leisure developments, including hotels, restaurants and retail options. The mixed-use development also includes a marina and a boardwalk, guaranteeing it will become a hotspot for residents and visitors alike.
The area surrounding the Canal is slated to undergo massive urban development, including more than 5,000 residential units and nearly 960 hotel rooms.
There are three planned districts known as Gate Towers, Jumeirah and the Peninsula.
One landmark within these is a 300,000 sqm three-level mall with more than 400 retail outlets and a green park on its roof.
A man-made peninsula that will be formed at the end of the Canal will serve as an extension of Jumeirah Beach Park, adding one kilometre of sandy beach and increasing the recreational activity space in the area.
On the Business Bay end of the Canal, major development is underway to create a waterfront district to rival Dubai Marina.
The Marasi Business Bay Promenade is to launch along with the Dubai Water Canal, and consists of 10-12km of promenade and leisure areas, giving visitors ample space to walk, stroll and enjoy the surrounding areas.
Info Source: Visit Dubai
