NEW DUBAI ATTRACTIONS

DUBAI is gearing up for the opening of a number of major developments in 2014/15. Among them are the Wire World Meydan Adventure Park, slated for completion later this year. Billed as the largest man-made adventure park of its kind in the world, the park is the first ever adventure rope course in the UAE. Located at the heart of Meydan alongside the racecourse, Wire World covers 25,000 square feet and features 70 obstacles set in trees. The park also incorporates a bike park, a bungee trampoline and visitor facilities. Due for completion within the next six months is the Dubai Safari Project featuring a park of almost 400 hectares. The park includes safari, Arabian, Asian and African villages plus a children’s zoo, butterfly park and botanical garden. About 1000 animals from across the world will be housed in temperature-controlled environments and animals from the current Dubai Zoo will be transferred to the new venue. Other projects due for completion in 2015 include the Deira Fish Market and IMG Worlds of Adventure, said to be the world’s largest temperature-controlled indoor themed entertainment destination. The Dubai Frame is an iconic centrepiece within Dubai’s Zabeel Park. Standing 150 metres above ground and 93 metres wide, the hollow shape will resemble a huge picture frame. At the base, visitors will follow a path detailing the history of Dubai using modern technology, before taking an elevator to the top of the frame where they will walk along a glass-floor bridge. Due for completion in the second quarter of 2015 is the Hatta Village Inn and Market Project. The 92,500 square foot Hatta Heritage Souq and Motel will incorporate as many as 46 stores and three main restaurants. The first floor will comprise a multipurpose hall, 32 hotel rooms and two suites that overlook the neighbouring valley. Quran Park is also due to be completed in September 2015. Located in Al Khawaneej, the park will span 65 hectares and be designed with the Holy book of the Qu’ran in mind featuring many of the 54 plants that are mentioned in the text.