Dubai Water Canal opening ceremony at night.

Sheikh Mohammed Inaugurates Dubai Water Canal and Other Landmark Projects

Government

Dubai, UAE – His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, recently inaugurated the second phase of the Dubai Water Canal, a monumental 12-kilometer waterway connecting Dubai Creek with the Arabian Gulf. This Dh3.7 billion project marks a significant milestone in Dubai’s ongoing development as a global hub for innovation and tourism.

A Vision Realized: The Dubai Water Canal

The Dubai Water Canal project, a testament to Dubai’s ambitious vision, extends 12 kilometers, linking the historic Dubai Creek to the Arabian Gulf. The first phase, costing Dh1 billion, stretched 9 km from Ras Al Khor to Sheikh Zayed Road. The second phase, costing Dh2.7 billion, added 3.2 km with 6.4 km of waterfront, ranging from 80m to 120m in width. This grand endeavor was completed on October 27, 2016, allowing water to flow and effectively connecting Business Bay with the Arabian Gulf.

Economic and Tourism Impact

The Dubai Water Canal is poised to significantly boost Dubai’s tourism sector. Dubai Holding, through its real estate arm Dubai Properties Group, is developing ‘Marasi Business Bay’ along the canal. 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.

Residential units built on water with boat access will offer unparalleled direct canal views, creating a unique lifestyle proposition.

Infrastructure and Engineering Marvels

The project involved extensive infrastructure development, including:

  • Three Motor Bridges: Linking the two shores of the Canal over Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Wasl Road, and Jumeirah Road.
    • Sheikh Zayed Road Bridge: Eight lanes in each direction, opened January 9, 2016.
    • Al Wasl Bridge: Three lanes in each direction, opened June 1, 2016.
    • Jumeirah Bridge: Three lanes in each direction, opened July 9, 2016.
  • Five Footbridges: Three of which feature iconic designs.

Key Takeaways

  • The Dubai Water Canal is a 12-kilometer waterway connecting Dubai Creek with the Arabian Gulf.
  • The project cost Dh3.7 billion and was completed in two phases.
  • It is expected to have a significant positive impact on tourism and economic development.
  • The canal features extensive infrastructure, including motor bridges and footbridges.
  • The project embodies Dubai’s commitment to innovation and becoming a leading global hub.

Other Major Projects in Dubai

Dubai’s commitment to ambitious development extends beyond the Water Canal. Other notable projects include:

  • Concourse 3 of Dubai International Airport: The world’s first dedicated facility for Emirates’ Airbus A380 fleet, featuring luxury lounges and extensive retail space. Inaugurated by Sheikh Mohammed, it significantly expanded the airport’s capacity.
  • Dubai International Boat Show: Held at the Dubai Canal, this annual event showcases the latest in marine leisure and technology, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading marine destination.
  • Ain Dubai: The world’s largest and tallest observation wheel, standing over 250 meters tall and capable of carrying over 1,750 visitors at once. Inaugurated by Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, it is a major addition to Dubai’s entertainment landscape.

These projects collectively underscore Dubai’s continuous drive for innovation, economic growth, and its aspiration to be a global leader in tourism and urban development.

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