Dubai’s visionary water canal, a 12-kilometer marvel connecting Dubai Creek to the Arabian Gulf, was officially inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This Dh3.7 billion project signifies a major leap in urban development and tourism for the emirate, transforming its landscape and offering new lifestyle opportunities.
A Vision Realized: Dubai Water Canal Opens
On November 9, 2016, the second phase of the Dubai Water Canal was inaugurated by Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The ceremony, held near Jumeirah Beach Park, was attended by prominent figures including Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Deputy Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, alongside senior officials and business leaders. The event celebrated a significant milestone in Dubai’s ongoing development and its commitment to innovation.
Key Takeaways
- The Dubai Water Canal is a 12-kilometer waterway linking Dubai Creek with the Arabian Gulf.
- The project cost Dh3.7 billion.
- It is expected to significantly boost tourism in Dubai.
- The canal features a 12 km promenade, water homes, floating restaurants, and five palm tree-lined marinas.
- The project includes the region’s first purpose-built yachting destination.
Project Scope and Features
The Dubai Water Canal project was executed in two phases. Dubai Holding spearheaded the first phase, costing Dh1 billion, which extended 9 km from Ras Al Khor through Business Bay to Sheikh Zayed Road. The second phase, costing Dh2.7 billion, spans 3.2 km and features 6.4 km of waterfront. The canal itself varies in width from 80m to 120m, stretching from Business Bay, crossing Sheikh Zayed Road, passing Safa Park, Al Wasl Road, and Jumeirah 2, before culminating at the Arabian Gulf.
Key infrastructure developments within the project include:
- Three motor bridges linking the canal’s shores: one on Sheikh Zayed Road (eight lanes in each direction, opened January 9, 2016), and two on Al Wasl Road and Jumeirah Road (three lanes in each direction, opened June 1 and July 9, 2016, respectively).
- Five footbridges, three of which boast iconic designs.
Economic and Tourism Impact
The Dubai Water Canal is poised to have a transformative impact on Dubai’s tourism sector. Dubai Holding plans to develop numerous tourism attractions along the canal, including ‘Marasi Business Bay’. This development will feature:
- The longest promenade in the UAE, spanning 12 km.
- Water homes and floating restaurants.
- Retail outlets and five palm tree-lined marinas.
- The region’s first purpose-built yachting destination with floating restaurants and cafes.
- Onshore boutique shopping and a range of leisure and entertainment facilities.
The residential units along the canal, designed with direct canal views and boat access, offer a unique lifestyle proposition, further enhancing Dubai’s appeal as a global destination.
Inauguration Ceremony Highlights
The inauguration ceremony was a grand affair, commencing with the national anthem and an aerial show inspired by UAE heritage. A water fountain display, themed ‘A Million Drops Make the Oceans’, captivated attendees. A film titled ‘Dubai Water Canal, the New Face of Dubai’ was screened, highlighting the project’s significance as a continuation of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum’s vision for Dubai Creek. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum officially opened the canal by placing his finger on an electronic panel, signaling the launch of the maiden water trip. The event concluded with a yacht tour, laser light shows, and fireworks, illuminating the Burj Khalifa and the canal, marking a new chapter for Dubai.