26 November 2005
Dubai - Dubai Waterfront, the world's largest waterfront development, has announced that its much anticipated Master Plan has been completed by internationally renowned architectural and planning firm Gruzen Samton.

The Master Plan, which was first visualised in January of this year, has evolved following months of strategic planning and a meticulous preparation process. It includes a detailed plan of Phase One of Madinat Al Arab featuring development control and design regulations. Affection plans have also been provided for each investor detailing a map of their land plot and usage, its size and location, as well as height restrictions and built up area specifications.

The exceptional sales of Phase One, which sold out in July for Dh13 billion within just five days of its unveiling, highlights the confidence of investors in how well planned Dubai Waterfront is as a development. Located on the last remaining waterfront in the Emirate, the project plans to be a world-class destination at the heart of the new Dubai. The Master Plan integrates Madinat Al Arab, a vibrant downtown surrounded by water and located on the main harbour at the heart of the project.

A particular emphasis has also been put on infrastructure through planned roads and other amenities that will meet the demands of the rising population. The destination, which is set to become a benchmark for integrated development, is perfectly located for direct access to Dubai's Sheikh Zayed Road, the Jebel Ali Free Zone, the capital Abu Dhabi, the planned Jebel Ali Airport and has also taken into account the planned metro link-up.

Mr. Khaled Issa Al Huraimel, General Manager of Madinat Al Arab, said: "The efficient and sophisticated planning stage was accomplished because of the comprehensive team of architects and engineers as well as traffic, transportation and marine consultants that worked closely and intensively on the Master Plan.  The Dubai Waterfront team worked closely with Gruzen Samton, a company which continues to play a major role in the ongoing development of New York City. Intensive workshops were held in both Dubai and New York with constant communication ensuring we were able to make changes and improvements rapidly.

"Investors were very impressed with the careful planning and innovative work done at the launch and this has contributed to the successful sales of Dubai Waterfront to date. We have spent a lot of time ensuring we meet the requirements of our investors and our market, and so far we have met all expectations and have had a fantastic response from them. Legal contracts have been finalised and signed with our investors for Phase One.  We are confident that because of our meticulously planned Master Plan, the phenomenal success of Phase One, and the ambition of the project, Dubai Waterfront will be the most sought after development in the region."

Madinat Al Arab will be anchored by Al Burj, one of the tallest buildings in the world which embodies the vision and magnitude of the project. The downtown will feature resorts, retail, commercial spaces, public spaces, a mix of residences and an integrated transport network including light rail and sophisticated road network.

James Wilson, Chief Executive Officer, Nakheel and Dubai Waterfront, said: "Dubai Waterfront is an ambitious and modern project which is destined to become an international icon, ultimately serving as the gateway to the Arabian Canal. The core objective behind the development is to be a major contributor in the ongoing transformation of Dubai into one of the world's leading cities."

-Ends-

About Dubai Waterfront
Dubai Waterfront, the largest-of-its-kind waterfront development in the world, comprises a balanced mix of residential, retail, hotel, office and industrial offerings, in addition to common areas that will be reserved for educational, cultural, health and recreational purposes. Located 35 km south west of Dubai, bordering Abu Dhabi, on the last remaining coastal waterfront of the Emirate, the Dubai Waterfront forms the first phase of a larger effort -- the Arabian Canal -- a 75km development envisioned by His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed. It will serve as primary entrance to the Arabian Canal, which ultimately will provide long-term waterfront investment opportunities.

About Madinat Al Arab
Madinat Al Arab plans to be the most sought after downtown area in the world to replace the legacy that Manhattan has held in the last few decades.  Madinat Al Arab will represent the tremendous success of Dubai and will house the best community services in the world (schools, universities, hospitals, social facilities, etc).  It will offer ultimate lifestyle anyone would dream of from entertainment, culture and opportunities within a cosmopolitan city that offers a rich experience to people from all cultures.  Madinat Al Arab will offer world-class architectural visions with diverse mix of buildings to suit different people's needs all within a stunningly charming landscape.

About Nakheel
Nakheel is the uniquely focused property development company behind a variety of new landmark developments in Dubai. It aims to redefine the concept of property development whether residential, tourist, commercial or retail. Nakheel's portfolio currently includes The Palm Jumeirah, The Palm Jebel Ali, The World, Jumeirah Islands, The Gardens, Ibn Battuta Shopping Mall, Discovery Gardens, Jumeirah Lake Towers, International City, Jumeirah Village, The Lost City, Nakheel Golf and the recently launched The Palm, Deira.

About Gruzen Samton LLP
Gruzen Samton is one of the longest-established architecture/planning practices in the New York metropolitan area.  Formed in 1936, the firm has a reputation for a broad portfolio of architectural, planning and interior design projects for educational, government, transportation, residential and commercial buildings.

Some of the firm's most notable buildings include the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York, the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, the Racquet Club Community in Shanghai, Port Imperial Ferry Terminal in New Jersey and in Manhattan four residential towers in Battery Park City and a Times Square office building.

For more information please contact:
Michela Chiappa
Bates PanGulf
Public Relations
Tel: 971 4 295 3456
Fax :9714 295 1027
Mob: 971 50 3943889
E-mail: michela@batespangulf.com

© Press Release 2005