The Escape, Ajman: Unique Equestrian Themed Mega Project!

I have seen many unique and amazing Mega Projects unveiled in the UAE....in fact the UAE is the world leader for creating new and one of a kind developments. What I have never seen is an entire residential Mega Development with an equestrian theme-- until now! Escape, located in Ajman, is a $720Million, 200-acre exclusive gated community offering villas and low rise apartments, a boutique hotel, and a full range of equestrian facilities in addition to several multi-purpose sports arenas. This Mega Project is a horse lovers dream come true!

Escape will offer:

> 10 luxury villas, 500 medium villas, and 220 semi-detached villas in various configurations,
> 16 low-to-medium rise apartment buildings,
> Equestrian-themed boutique 5-Star hotel,
> Indoor multi-purpose sport and riding arena,
> Outdoor multi-purpose show ring / sports arena with seating for 400 spectators,
> HoofbeatZ Activities Equine Centre,
> Equine Spa,
> Barn facilities for 200 horses,
> Indoor sports arena for basketball, badminton, volleyball, and more,
> International standard restaurants and retail establishments,
> State-of-the-art business, health, sport, and leisure centers.

Ever seen a Mega Project like this one?? I have'nt! Definitely another "Big First" for the UAE! Located at the heart of Escape is the HoofbeatZ Centre, a two-level activities clubhouse which introduces a unique mix of equestrian-themed activities and entertainment in addition to traditional sports facilities ideal for the entire family. Wow! An entire club devoted to activities you can do with your horse!

"Our HoofbeatZ Program introduces non traditional equestrian games, workshops, and experiences that are all designed to broaden the base of those interested in horses, and to allow for people to learn about the horse as never before. These are brand new ideas and activities that are ideal for the entire family; our ultimate goal is to foster a new generation of equine enthusiasts and professionals from the UAE," said Eileen Verdieck, Partner of Escape LLC.

Even the 150 room Resort Hotel at Escape will be equestrian themed with each room dedicated to a different breed of horse. This is the only equestrian themed hotel in the entire world!

The villas at Escape will maintain open space, without property walls, and architectural inspiration comes from the traditional Arabic, Ottoman, and Mediterranean cultures. Low rise apartments border the residential area of the development and are only between eight and thirteen floors high so as to create a stress-free relaxed country atmosphere for the community.

"It's difficult for people in Dubai to live a nice lifestyle with the traffic and everything. With this location being literally 20 minutes from Dubai Airport, it's a wonderful alternative for people who maybe didn't think this kind of lifestyle was in their price range," said Verdieck.

Anwer Sher, General Manager of Escape LLC, had this to say:

"Escape will offer a new and healthier kind of lifestyle. Conveniently located to urban centers, yet removed from traffic and other urban stress, the community has been carefully designed to provide residents with an abundance of nature, peaceful views, and privacy not seen in other developments. Each villa is being planned so that it has a view onto planned bridle paths, or public park space areas. We have worked with the natural topography of the site, and enhanced existing land rises and using the lay of the land to promote a feeling of space and privacy."

Escape is a real paradise for the horse lover! An entire community devoted to horses and horse enthusiasts! Only in the UAE could you ever find something like Escape! This equestrian themed Mega Project truly embraces the creativity, vision and uniqueness of the UAE Mega Projects!

This link takes you to the Escape website:

http://www.ajmanproperty.com/escape-villas/escape-home.asp

Sovereign Wealth Funds Of The Gulf: Dubai World

With this post I am adding coverage of the Sovereign Wealth Funds of The Gulf to this blog. These gigantic funds have been making headlines with their huge investments in real estate, energy, financial services, tourism, retail and transport projects all over the world. The Sovereign Wealth Funds of The Gulf are some of the biggest financial powerhouses in the world, controlling Trillions of dollars!

Today I will cover Dubai World, which is one of the divisions of Dubai's Sovereign Wealth Fund, the Investment Corporation of Dubai. Dubai World is one of the most incredible holding companies on earth. Dubai World controls well over $100Billion, employs over 100,000 people and has a presence in 100 different cities in 60 countries!! Dubai World's portfolio of investments is HUGE and includes Nakheel, Limitless and DP World ....and these 3 giants are just a "small" portion of the Dubai World portfolio of investments!

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Chairman of Dubai World, had this to say about the company:

"Dubai World never stops working. Around the globe and around the clock, we are committed to achieving tremendous success. Our Holding Company is a pioneering collection of international companies who together will proudly advance Dubai and the world. We know this is just the beginning of what we can accomplish and are excited and optimistic about the future and how Dubai World can help transform it."

The companies that are part of the Dubai World portfolio fall into 4 different classifications: 1. Group Entity (meaning Dubai World owns the entire company), 2. Partner, 3. Joint Venture, and 4. Associate. So, for example, Nakheel and Limitless are Group Entities of Dubai World, meaning Dubai World owns 100% of each company....on the other hand, The Trump Organization is a Partner with Dubai World through Nakheel (via Trump Palm on Palm Jumeirah).

What follows is the complete Dubai World portfolio. Be prepared to be amazed!

DUBAI WORLD PORTFOLIO

> P&O Maritime
> DP World
> Jafza
> Economic Zones World
> Pearl Valley Golf Estates
> Jumeirah Golf Estate
> Istithmar Building
> Golden Mile
> The Gardens
> Lost City
> Discovery Gardens
> Jumeirah Islands
> International City
> Jumeirah Lakes Towers
> The World
> Yacht Haven Grande
> Jumeirah Village
> Dubai Waterfront
> Dubai Design Center
> The Trump Organization
> Nakheel
> The Palm Islands
> Jumeirah Lakes Towers
> Istithmar
> Limitless LLC
> Perella Weinberg Partners
> FORSA
> Arcapita
> CDL Hospitality
> Istithmar Hotels
> Economic Zones World
> Techno Park Dubai
> Jebel Ali Free Zone International
> Dubai Multi Commodities Centre
> Dubai Diamond Exchange
> Dubai Gem Certification
> Dubai Tea Trading Center
> Polygon
> Tamweel
> Bank Muscat International
> Emirates and Sudan Bank
> Insure Direct
> Standard Chartered
> JADAF DUBAI
> Platinum Yachts FZCO
> Dubai Maritime City
> Exomos
> Platinum Yachts Managements
> Inchcape Shipping Services
> P&O Ferries
> Clement Systems Gulf
> Drydocks World
> Island Global Yachting
> Tejari
> Simsari
> Atlantis, The Palm
> Snowmass, Colorado
> Troon Golf
> GPS Industries, Inc.
> Leisurecorp
> Easy Hotel
> Kerzner International
> Greg Norman Golf Course
> One & Only
> Taj Luxury Hotels
> IFA Hotels & Resorts
> The Fairmont Palm Residence
> Palm Marine
> Kempinski Hotels
> Atlantis, Paradise Island
> Istithmar Hotels
> Nakheel Hotels & Resorts
> Bumrungrad Hospital
> TLC Healthcare Services
> IBN Battuta Mall
> Loehmann's Holdings
> Retail Corp
> Dragon Mart Complex
> Imdaad
> Dubai Customs World
> Dubai Security Services
> Palm District Cooling
> Nakheel Travel
> EHS
> Business Excellence Center
> Palm Water
> Spice Jet
> Dubai Gold & Commodities Exchange
> Polyconcept
> Emirates National Securitization Corp.

This link takes you to the Dubai World website:

http://www.dubaiworld.ae/en/Index.html

Remraam: Upscale & Affordable Living In Dubai!

I hear complaints all the time that so many of the developments being built in Dubai are super luxurious and super expensive....not very affordable for many people. Well today I will tell you about a Dubai community being developed by Mizin, the real estate division of Tatweer(developers of Dubailand), that is both upscale AND affordable AND has a great location in Dubai!

This community is called Remraam. The 23.5 million square foot Mega Project is situated in a prime residential location overlooking Golf City and adjacent to both the Arabian Ranches and the biggest strip entertainment destination in the world, Bawadi. Now that's what I call LOCATION! Remraam will feature 100 Arabian Style residential buildings offering top quality studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom residences varying in price from approximately $120,000 to $450,000. Remraam should be finished by the end of 2010. From Mizin:

'At Mizin, we have formed a whole new way of approaching development. We look at it from your perspective; not ours. Remraam is a new kind of community that is built with your input. It provides affordable community living without depriving you of the kind of lifestyle you would expect to find in upscale communities.

'Remraam delivers on every key consideration: ideal location, extensive community amenities, lush landscaping, spacious garden apartments, an uncompromising build quality and unique low rise Moorish style architecture.'

This is exactly the kind of development that so many are looking for in Dubai. A great place to live, in a great location, at an affordable price! The CEO of Mizin, Sami Al Hashimi, had this to say about Remraam:

"In the past, value for money was offered at the expense of four major aspects - location, building quality, community facilities and the theme or the architectural style. What we have managed to achieve with the Remraam Community in terms of its value proposition is unprecedented for Dubai.

"Remraam was conceived to fill a gap in the market, based on the outcomes of a thorough sectoral research. In offering a unique community, Remraam has caught the attention of families looking to have an affordable yet upscale lifestyle that is founded on unparalleled quality standards."

Some of the facilities at Remraam include:

> Shopping Mall that will offer; department stores, food court, day care center, art gallery, culture center, multi-purpose hall,
> Swimming Pools,
> Health Clubs and Gyms,
> Clubhouse,
> Walking Paths,
> Childrens Play Areas,
> Tennis and Basketball Courts,
> Sauna and Steam Rooms,
> Parks, Gardens, Water Features,
> Mosques,
> Jogging Track,
> Community Retail Area,
> Outdoor BBQ Area,
> Dedicated Parking Area.

Remraam is truly one of the best residential developments I have seen. It has everything. Great location in DUBAI. High quality upscale living. AFFORDABLE pricing! Already phase 1, 2 and 3 of Remraam have been completely sold out....so I guess I am not the only one who thinks this Mega Project is fabulous! In my opinion, Remraam offers both a great place to live and a great investment.

This link takes you to the Remraam website:

http://www.remraam.ae/

The Riyadh Mega Projects

With the huge explosion of growth in The Gulf an unprecedented construction boom is underway in Saudi Arabia! More and more multi-billion dollar Mega Projects are being planned and built including the world's largest Mega Project-- the $120Billion King Abdullah Economic City. It is estimated that the Saudi's will spend between $700Billion-$1Trillion on projects!

Riyadh, capital of Saudi Arabia, is one of the epicenters for Saudi Mega Project development. Riyadh is the seat of government: ministries, embassies, diplomatic missions, as well as the financial, educational, cultural, technical, commercial and social capital of Saudi Arabia. As an important world capital, Riyadh receives an annual stream of businessmen, heads of state and public figures from the Western, Arab, Islamic and developing countries further underlining the city's increasingly pivotal role in Arab and global affairs.

In this post I will give you all of the Riyadh Mega Projects so you will understand just how much is going on there. In a future post I will cover the Jeddah Mega Projects, and Mega Projects going on in lesser known regions of Saudi Arabia. While so much of the world focuses on the UAE, there is plenty of exciting development taking place in Saudi Arabia! I have tried to be as accurate as possible with this list but there is always a chance that I missed a project or two. Feel free to email me or leave a comment if you have a Riyadh Mega Project that did not make the list.

THE RIYADH MEGA PROJECTS

> Kingdom Centre
> Al Faisaliya Centre
> King Khalid International Airport
> King Fahd International Stadium
> Riyadh View
> Riyadh Municipality
> Riyadh Plaza
> Riyadh Internationl Exhibition Center
> Riyadh Gallery Mall
> Nakheel Tower
> Olaya Center
> King Abdullah Financial District
> King Abdullah International Gardens
> Al-Wassil Tower
> Al Wasl
> Al Wasl Community
> Al Rajhi Tower
> Al Rajhi Tower 2
> Al Khozama Towers
> Ajmakan
> Al Anoud
> Anoud Tower 2
> Alqasser
> Al Faisal University
> Business Park
> B&D tower
> Benaa City
> Durrat Al-Riyadh
> Golden Corridor
> Ethra Mall
> Crystals of Riyadh
> Dahira Development
> Dhab Office Complex
> Jawharat Al Mamlakah
> Green Business Park
> Granada Office Park
> Four Seasons Riyadh
> Novotel & Ibis Hotel
> Marriot Courtyard
> Flamingo Mall
> Ministry of Education Headquarters
> Saudi Hollandi Bank
> Sport City
> Technology and Information City
> Thumamah Park

The 10 Most Important Dubai Mega Projects

In this post I will give you what I consider to be the 10 most important Dubai Mega Projects. With this list I am looking at the LONG TERM success of Dubai. Therefore some of the Mega Projects on the list may not be as far along in development as projects I have excluded from the list...but nevertheless, in the LONG TERM, the Mega Projects on this list will be much more important to the success of Dubai than some projects that did not make the list. For example, RIGHT NOW Ski Dubai, which is fully operational and attracting many tourists to Dubai, is more important than Dubailand, which has many years to go before being fully finished. However, in the LONG TERM, Dubailand is far more important than Ski Dubai to the overall success of Dubai and will attract many, many more tourists to Dubai than Ski Dubai ever could.

THE 10 MOST IMPORTANT DUBAI MEGA PROJECTS

1.) Dubailand. Once complete, Dubailand will be the largest Mega Entertainment/Theme Park ever built and will be twice as large as Disney World. Dubailand is the Mega Project that will ultimately bring a continuous flood of millions and millions of tourists to Dubai each year. And as the biggest theme park ever built, Dubailand will make headlines all over the world bringing Dubai into the forefront of world travel.

2.) Business Bay. This gigantic Mega Business/Finance Development is destined to become "the Wall Street of the Middle East." One of the major goals of Dubai is to become a business and financial world hub. With Business Bay, Dubai will accomplish this goal making the Emirate a global business and finance powerhouse. Becoming a world business capital is vital for the long term success of Dubai.

3.) Dubai World Central. With the huge amount of tourism that projects like Dubailand will create, and all of the international business going in and out of Dubai, it is of primary importance for the long term success of the Emirate to have the largest and most modern international transportation center in the world-- and this is exactly what Dubai World Central will be when complete. None of Dubai's long term plans can work without having the finest transportation center in the world.

4.) Burj Dubai. As the tallest skyscraper in the world (and still growing), Burj Dubai constantly makes headlines all over the world. These headlines put Dubai right in the center of world media attention making the entire world aware of what an amazing place Dubai really is. Burj Dubai - being the tallest skyscraper in world history - makes the entire planet focus on Dubai!

5.) The Palm Islands. Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali and Palm Deira are three of the most Iconic and incredible Mega Projects ever built. They are the eighth, ninth and tenth Wonders Of The World!! They rival the Great Pyramids! And just as the Great Pyramids drive millions of tourists to Egypt, The Palm Islands will do the same for Dubai. Furthermore, these islands offer some of the best real estate investment opportunities available, and because of this they are attracting investors from all over the world to Dubai.

6.) The World. Like the Palm Islands, The World is one of the most fantastic Mega Projects ever created. The World puts Dubai at the zenith of international property development because it has become one of the "Wonders Of The World" and an international Icon!

7.) Burj Al Alam. Once complete Burj Al Alam will be the tallest business tower ever built....another world's first for Dubai. But even more important than that, as the tallest BUSINESS tower in all of the world, Burj Al Alam will act like a beacon for attracting businesses to Dubai. This tower will be featured in all of the world's leading business media putting Dubai right in the center of all things business!

8.) Dubai Sports City. The phenomenal interest in sports throughout the world will make this Mega Project one of Dubai's most popular. Dubai Sports City will be an entire city devoted to sports! Nothing like this has ever been seen before and this development will attract the millions and millions of sports fans from all over the world to Dubai!

9.) Dubai Towers at The Lagoons. The stunning architecture of these 4 magnificent towers is so completely amazing that the Dubai Towers will capture the interest of and captivate the world! This is yet another Mega Project that will bring Dubai an incredible amount of international media attention. And don't forget that Dubai Tower 4 will be one of the tallest towers in the world coming in at 550m!

10.) Burj Al Arab. The finest and most luxurious hotel in the entire world! Burj Al Arab has already become a World Icon attracting the Super-Rich to Dubai. This hotel has put Dubai at the forefront of world luxury destinations and will continue to bring the rich and famous from all over the world to Dubai.

HONORABLE MENTION

There are so many great Dubai Mega Projects that it is very hard to pick the top 10. Her are some others that easily could have made the list:

> Dubai Waterfront
> Dubai Marina
> Al Burj
> Meydan
> Emirates Towers
> Mall Of Arabia
> Ski Dubai

UAE/Gulf Will Be World's Number One Tourist And Entertainment Destination!

The Middle East has already become the world leader in Global Tourism! This region surged ahead 13% in '07 with a total of 46 million arrivals! This is the largest percentage gain of anywhere in the world...even larger than Asia which increased by 10%! We could see even greater numbers by the end of 2008. The major reason we are seeing so many tourists flock to the Middle East is because of the rapid expansion of The UAE/Gulf Region and all of the incredible and unique Mega Projects being built there.

What really excites me about all of this is that most of the spectacular UAE/Gulf Mega Entertainment & Leisure Projects are not even complete yet. Imagine how huge tourism will be when Mega Projects like these are finally complete and fully operational:

> Dubailand
> Bawadi
> Universal Studios Dubailand
> Six Flags Dubailand
> Marvel Theme Park
> DreamWorks
> Meydan Racecourse
> Dubai Sports City
> MGM Grand Abu Dhabi
> Ferrari Theme Park / Yas Island
> Warner Brothers Theme Park, Abu Dhabi
> The Louvre / Saadiyat Island
> Guggenheim Museum / Saadiyat Island
> PKN Princess Resort, Ajman
> SEGA / Emaar Theme Parks

...and don't forget about these World Icons that will - and in many cases already are - attracting huge numbers of tourists:

- Burj Dubai
- Palm Jumeirah
- World Islands
- Palm Jebel Ali
- Palm Deira
- Al Burj
- Burj Al Alam
- Dubai Towers at The Lagoons
- Burj Al Arab
- Emirates Palace

Over $1Trillion is being spent in the Middle East on Mega Entertainment & Leisure Projects! According to a 1/20/08 article in ArabianBusiness.com:

'A massive $1Trillion is being invested in leisure projects across the Middle East, part of $3.63Trillion being spent on travel and tourism in the region over the next 12 years, according to a study by think tank Fast Future and Global Futures and Foresight (GFF). The Middle East Leisure Landscape 2020 study, released on Saturday, highlighted the UAE and Saudi Arabia as the main countries driving the surge in investment. GFF said Dubai accounted for $381.4Billion of projects in the region either planned or underway, while its neighboring Emirate Abu Dhabi accounted for $131.3Billion. Saudi Arabia has $184.4Billion worth of projects either planned or underway.'

Taking a closer look at Dubai, we see that by 2010 tourist numbers are expected to hit 10 million, and by 2015 they could reach at least 15 million according to Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM). Furthermore, DTCM said the number of hotels and hotel apartments was expected to rise to 488 in the next two years, compared to 452 in 2007, with the number of hotel rooms climbing to 64,179 in 2010 from 51,168 last year! Khalid Ahmed bin Sulayem, Director General of DTCM had this to say:

"We are on track to move Dubai up the ladder on the global tourism map, and continue to provide direction to consolidate the Emirate's position as the tourism hub not just of the region but of the world."

No other area in the world even comes close to spending the kind of money on entertainment and leisure projects that the UAE/Gulf is spending. Not China. Not India. Not the USA. The future of world tourism and entertainment is the UAE/Gulf.

UPDATE- 6/19/08:

This morning, the day after I did this post, while I was checking over all the latest UAE news, I see that the United Kingdom's leading event organizer - CMPi - has announced the launch of the 'Middle East Attractions, Amusements, Parks, Leisure and Entertainment International Trade Exhibition (MEAPPLE)' that is scheduled to take place on November 17th and 18th at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).

MEAPPLE has been launched because of the incredible boom in entertainment and leisure Mega Projects being developed in The Gulf. Chris Fountain, Director of CMPi, stated:

"The region is experiencing one of the great economic booms and MEAPPLE is being launched to enable international companies to develop contacts and deliver business in this key growth market."

The Mega Developers: Tatweer

Tatweer was formed in 2005 as a division of Dubai Holding. Tatweer is a huge mutli-billion dollar Dubai conglomerate whose companies are involved in 6 major market sectors:

1. Leisure and Entertainment
2. Real Estate
3. Hotels and Hospitality
4. Industry
5. Energy Trading
6. Healthcare

From Tatweer:

'Launched in December 2005, Tatweer has given life to the Dubai Vision. Powering mega-industries, molding ultra-luxurious enclaves from barren desert, creating world-class facilities for Emiratis and expatriates alike.

'As the strategic and operational driver of a select group of Dubai Holding entities, Tatweer's mission is to develop new markets to serve Dubai's unprecedented progress. A mission already accomplished through its market-leading entities:

> The Tiger Woods Dubai
> DreamWorks
> Dubai Healthcare City
> Dubai Energy
> Dubailand
> Universal Studios
> Bawadi
> Global Village
> Dubai Industrial City
> Mizin
> Tatweer Lammtara Joint Venture
> The Dubai Mercantile Exchange

'As the Dubai Vision continues to captivate the world, Tatweer pushes on to create its physical manifestations in Energy and Healthcare, Tourism and Entertainment, Industry, and Real Estate. And other forthcoming projects that will bear Tatweer's mark of world-class excellence.'

WOW! Talk about having a "No Limits" attitude!

The largest and grandest of all the Tatweer Mega Projects is of course Dubailand. This is the biggest and most expensive Mega Entertainment Project in world history! Dubailand will be twice the size of Disney World and the current estimated cost of Dubailand is $103Billion. At this cost Dubailand is the second most expensive Mega Project ever built. Number one is King Abdullah Economic City in Saudi Arabia coming in at $120Billion! However I think that with new projects always being announced for Dubailand that its final cost will be in the area of $140-$150Billion, making it number one.

The importance of Dubailand to Dubai, the UAE and the entire Middle East cannot be emphasized enough. Dubailand is the Mega Project that will really bring the millions and millions of tourists to Dubai. It will make Dubai into the world's greatest tourist destination, in my opinion. And with all of those tourists flocking to Dubai there will be a "spillover effect" into the other Emirates, and other parts of The Gulf as well. Thus Tatweer, as the developer of Dubailand, becomes one of the most important Mega Developers in the entire Middle East - just as important as Emaar and Nakheel - I think.

Many of the Mega Projects being developed by Tatweer will actually be part of Dubailand. For example, Bawadi - the largest strip entertainment destination in the world - is part of Dubailand. Dreamworks, Universal Studios, Six Flags and Global Village are also part of Dubailand.

The real estate division of Tatweer is called Mizin, which has 4 gigantic projects in development:

- Remraam. A huge upscale community with residences to be offered at an affordable price. Located next to Arabian Ranches and close to Mall of Arabia and Golf City. I will be doing an in depth post on Remraam shortly.

- Arjan. A master planned community near Dubailand that will be home to 67,000 residents as well as 6 office towers and a variety of retail and hospitality developments.

- Liwan. A $2Billion development that will be the "Gateway To Dubailand" and be close to all major Dubailand attractions.

- Majan. This project is actually Downtown Dubailand and will have an area of 16.5 million sq feet and cost approximately $7.25Billion.

I think I have given you some idea of the size, scope and importance of the Tatweer Mega Projects. Tatweer is without a doubt one of the greatest Gulf Mega Developers and is building a bright future for all of the Middle East!

This link takes you to the Tatweer website:

http://www.tatweerdubai.com/En/Home.aspx

This link takes you to the Dubailand website:

http://www.dubailand.ae/

...and this link takes you to the Mizin website:

http://www.mizin.ae/

Top 50 Gulf Mega Developers

In this post I will give you my list of the Top 50 Mega Developers of The Gulf. I think you will find this list quite interesting. These are the companies that are literally "Building The Future" of the Middle East. These developers are CREATING HISTORY with Mega Projects so awesome that nothing like them has ever been seen before! Examples include: The Palm and World Islands, Burj Dubai, Burj Al Alam, Al Burj, Dubailand, Reem Island, Al Zorah, The Pearl Qatar...etc., etc.

A few points to consider. First, there are many more than 50 great developers in The Gulf and therefore my list of the "Top" 50 is my own opinion based on my knowledge of the developers and the projects they are creating. By no means is this list "etched in stone." If any of you think I missed an important company that belongs on The Top 50, just send me an email, or make a comment, and I will look into it.

Point two. Although the developers are listed 1 through 50, their order on the list is not meant to be a hierarchy of importance. Therefore, just because Hydra Properties is #21 on the list and RAKEEN is #41, this does mean that Hydra is any more important than RAKEEN. I put Emaar at #1 and Nakheel at #2, but this could easily be reversed as some would consider Nakheel to be #1... or even Tatweer because of the importance of their Dubailand development to the region. What is most important to remember is that THEY ARE ALL GREAT COMPANIES!

TOP 50 GULF MEGA DEVELOPERS

1. Emaar
2. Nakheel
3. ALDAR
4. Tatweer
5. DAMAC
6. Tameer
7. Dubai Properties
8. Abyaar
9. Limitless
10. Omniyat Properties
11. Al-Futtaim Group
12. Sorouh
13. Tamouh
14. Al Habtoor Group
15. Star Giga
16. Deyaar
17. Al Mazaya Holding
18. Sama Dubai
19. Union Properties
20. First Qatar
21. Hydra Properties
22. Al Rostamani Group
23. Plus Properties
24. Diamond Investments
25. KM Holding
26. Al Hanoo
27. SNASCO
28. Tanmiyat Group
29. MBI International
30. Solidere
31. IRIS
32. Saba Properties
33. First Bahrain
34. RAK Properties
35. Saraya Holdings
36. Gulf Holding Company
37. Tamweel
38. High Rise Properties
39. Schon Properties
40. Al Qudra Real Estate
41. RAKEEN
42. BARWA
43. Dar Al-Arkan
44. Burooj Properties
45. Tamdeen Group
46. Reem Investments
47. Al Manal Development
48. Al Fara'a Properties
49. ACI Real Estate
50. Aqaar

Goldcrest Smart City, Ajman: The Future Is Now!

Goldcrest Smart City is another new Ajman Mega Project that really caught my eye. Being developed by Giga Group at a cost of about $700Million this development represents "the future is now" in fine living...and this project is actually affordable! Goldcrest Smart City is made up of 8 ultra modern towers that will offer a total of 3,500 luxury apartments: studios and 1 & 2 bedroom units. The location is one of the best in the UAE, right on Emirates Road and close to Dubai International Airport.

But what really sets this project apart from so many others is the TECHNOLOGY! According to Giga Group, Smart City will be connected with LG HomNet, an intelligent home network solution that provides a convenient and secure lifestyle with the integration of digital home solutions including:

- LG LCD TV - choose from over 1000 movies,
- LG Refrigerator, Washing Machine, Microwave,
- I-pod docking station - download unlimited music online,
- LG LCD HomNet Control Panel.

The last feature, the HomNet, is really amazing and will allow:

> Home Tasking: Home Automation / Keyless Entry Smart Homes,
> Video & Audio Communication: between Neighbors & to Amenities,
> Integrated Security: CCTV, Parking & Access Control, detects intrusion,
> Entertainment: Movies and Music on demand,
> Home Management: Energy Saving, Family Memos: Audio – Video – Text,
> Community Portal: Information sharing on shopping etc.,
> Community Management: Facilities & Maintenance,
> Well Being: Future ready health care services.

WOW!! I have been saying for so long that the UAE is becoming the "Country Of The Future" and here it is with Goldcrest Smart City! This is really a state-of-the-art Mega Project and I think that once complete Smart City will act as an example for the entire world of what the future of living can be!

Other features of Smart City include:

** Health and Fitness Centers,
** A Club House that will feature: billiards, squash courts, badminton, table tennis, a nursery for the kids and a hall for parties and events,
** Landscaped walkways and boulevards,
** 6 levels of parking in each tower,
** 24-hour security,
** UAE Residence Visa,
** Entire project is 100% freehold.

Amir Giga, Director of Giga Group, had this to say about Goldcrest Smart City:

"The new residential development has been launched following the tremendous success of our signature developments in Jumeirah Lake Towers (Dubai) and Emirates City (Ajman) which were sold out in record time. Smart City will be a picture of inspiration, with environs which only enhance its value. We are confident that the quality of planning and attention to detail that we have employed in the execution of this project will be highly appreciated by the residents of this community, in terms of both function and aesthetics."

...and about the affordability of the project, Giga commented:

"Another reason why we have selected Ajman is because most of our target clients are the end-users, and these are people who are working in Dubai, earning between Dh15,000 to Dh20,000 a month. We want to build something for them, some­thing affordable for them, and that is definitely developing into a big market."

Goldcrest Smart City is really one of the best opportunities I have seen. A super-modern landmark development, like something from out of the future, at an affordable price and in a great location! Watch these fly off the market!

This link takes you to the Goldcrest Smart City website:

http://www.gcsmartcity.com/Booking.aspx

Bahrain International Investment Park

Bahrain, along with the rest of The Gulf, continues to rapidly expand! One of the major business/industrial Mega Projects in Bahrain is the Bahrain International Investment Park (BIIP). Located in the Hidd Industrial Area, BIIP covers over 250 hectares with 25.5km of readily equipped infrastructure such as roads, street lighting, sewage systems, landscaping and desalination systems. According to BIIP, some of the highlights of this project include:

- A new type of industrial area for Bahrain,
- World class physical environment,
- High quality management standards,
- Internationally competitive facilities & costs,
- Highly skilled on-site management team,
- Special Customs procedures with dedicated customs unit,
- Excellent location close to: Bahrain International Airport, Mina Salman Seaport, Hidd Deep Water Port.

BIIP will be divided into 6 different zones, each zone targeting a different sector:

Zone 1: Services and knowledge based activities,
Zone 2: High Tech manufacturing and assembly,
Zone 3: Large, medium and light manufacture,
Zone 4: Small and medium enterprises(SMEs),
Zone 5: Process industry,
Zone 6: Commercial.

Establishment of a facility within BIIP assures investors that they will have the commitment of the Bahrain Government as well as assisted access to the various GCC markets. BIIP offers unique incentives including: 100% foreign ownership of companies, 0% tax with a ten-year guarantee, special customs services, no recruitment restrictions and strong assistance with all corporate and human resource formalities. Quality facilities, offices and factory units are offered with long leases and competitive land rentals in an environment that is professionally zoned, landscaped and managed.

Already a number of very large projects have been announced for BIIP. One of the biggest is the KFH-Bahrain Industrial Oasis. This project will provide over 50,000 sqm of high quality manufacturing space in 24 industrial units, each unit available for lease to manufacturing companies. KFH-Bahrain Industrial Oasis will also include a six-storey office tower, which will provide 10,000 sqm of space for export-focused knowledge-based business. Other projects will also be developed at the Industrial Oasis.

The General Manager of KFH-Bahrain, Mr. Abdulhakeem Alkhayyat, had this to say at the announcement of KFH-Bahrain Industrial Oasis:

"We are pleased to announce this milestone which will contribute to the economic development and growth in the Kingdom of Bahrain. With enormous competitive advantages, Bahrain - and the Hidd area in particular - offer an ideal location for both regional and international industrial companies engaged in highly productive and economically beneficial activities."

Another large project located in BIIP is the huge $40Million Kraft Foods manufacturing plant. This plant will be one of the largest foreign food and beverage plants in the Middle East, and it will produce 60,000 tons of Kraft cheese and powdered beverages annually for the Middle East and Africa regions.

Many more companies from all over the world have signed on to open up facilities at BIIP, and more are being attracted to this landmark Bahrain Mega Project each day!

This link takes you to the BIIP website:

http://www.biip.com.bh/

Dubai's Top 100 Skyscrapers

Dubai is becoming the world's greatest metropolis! No other location on earth has as many incredible Mega Projects being built as Dubai....and so many skyscrapers! Skyscrapers with such stunning architecture that the entire world is in awe! In this post I will list ALL of the Top 100 Skyscrapers Of Dubai. These skyscrapers are the shining monuments to the greatness of Dubai and all of The Gulf. These skyscrapers represent the bright future of Dubai, all of the UAE, and the entire Middle East!

I will list the name of each individual skyscraper along with its height. I will try to be as accurate as possible but please understand that since so many of these skyscrapers are still in the construction stage the developers will sometimes alter their height during construction-- usually to make them taller than originally announced. A perfect example of this is The Burj Dubai. Nobody knows how tall this skyscraper will finally be...it just keeps GROWING!

DUBAI'S TOP 100 SKYSCRAPERS

1. Al Burj, 1050m
2. Burj Dubai, 808m
3. Dubai Tower 4 @ The Lagoons, 550m
4. Pentominium, 516m
5. Burj Al Alam, 501m
6. DAMAC Heights, 460m
7. Marina Sky Towers, 450m
8. Princess Tower, 414m
9. Marina 101, 412m
10. Lighthouse Tower, 400m
11. Emirates Park Tower 1, 395m
12. Emirates Park Tower 2, 395m
13. 23 Marina, 395m
14. Elite Residence, 380m
15. The Wave Tower, 370m
16. Almas Tower, 360m
17. Emirates Office Tower, 354m
18. The Torch, 345m
19. Rose Tower, 333m
20. Al Yaqoub Tower, 330m
21. Infinity Tower, 330m
22. The Index, 328m
23. Burj Al Arab, 321m
24. HHHR Tower, 317m
25. Ocean Heights, 310
26. Burj Dubai Lake, 306m
27. Emirates Hotel Tower, 305m
28. Ahmed Abdul Rahim Al Attar Tower, 301m
29. Emirates Crown, 296m
30. Sulafa Tower, 285m
31. Millenium Tower, 285m
32. G-Tower, 280m
33. Mag 218 Tower, 275m
34. Nikko Hotel, 270m
35. 21st Century Tower, 269m
36. Abjar Tower, 267m
37. Al Kazim Tower 1, 265m
38. Al Kazim Tower 2, 265m
39. Marina Pinnacle, 260m
40. Khalid Al Attar Towers, 260m
41. Ubora Tower, 256m
42. Emirates Marina, 256m
43. Chelsea Tower, 251m
44. Angsana Hotel & Suites 1, 250m
45. Angsana Hotel & Suites 2, 250m
46. Al Tayer Tower, 248m
47. Churchill Residency, 247m
48. Oasis Beach Tower, 245m
49. Al Fattan Tower, 245m
50. The Tower, 242m
51. Sama Tower, 240m
52. The Buildings by Daman, 235m
53. Park Place, 234m
54. Al Seef Tower, 214m
55. Executive Towers Building M, 212m
56. La Reve, 210m
57. Grosvenor House Hotel and Apartments, 210m
58. Marina Heights, 208m
59. Tamani Hotel Marina, 207m
60. Marina Crown, 207m
61. The Citadel, 201m
62. Acico Office Tower, 200m
63. Shangri-La Hotel, 200m
64. Al Salam Tecom Tower, 195m
65. Executive Towers Building B, 193m
66. Horizon Tower, 190m
67. Dubai Tower, 186m
68. Executive Towers Building K, 185m
69. Etisalat Telecommunication & Administration Building, 185m
70. Murjan Tower, 185m
71. Mesk Tower, 185m
72. Capricorn Tower, 185m
73. World Trade Center, 184m
74. Marina Terrace, 183m
75. Executive Towers Building L, 180m
76. Executive Towers Building H, 180m
77. Nuaimi Tower, 172m
78. Iris Tower, 170m
79. Executive Towers Building G, 170m
80. Executive Towers Building J, 170m
81. Jumeirah Beach Residence, 170m
82. Al Sahab Tower One, 170m
83. Shatha Tower, 167m
84. Four Points by Sheraton, 166m
85. Goldcrest Executive Tower, 165m
86. Falcon Tower, 163m
87. Sky Garden, 160m
88. Goldcrest Views 1, 159m
89. Time Place, 158m
90. Saeed Tower 2, 155m
91. Kendah House, 154m
92. Dusit Dubai, 153m
93. The Fairmont Dubai, 153m
94. Al Yassat Tower, 151m
95. Lake View, 146m
96. Globe Lake View, 136m
97. The Aspect Tower, 135m
98. Emirates Financial Tower 1, 135m
99. Emirates Financial Tower 2, 135m
100. The Residences Tower W3, 135m

The Doha Mega Projects

Like the UAE, Qatar is moving ahead with Mega Project development at a fast and furious pace! Already Qatar is investing over $100Billion in construction projects, and that figure will surely increase. I have already done a number of posts on specific Qatar Mega Projects including The Pearl Qatar, Lusail and Barwa Financial District. Today, however, I want to give you a complete overview of the many Mega Projects being developed in Qatar.

Qatar does not get as much publicity or notoriety as Dubai. I am often surprised at how many people - even those who live in Qatar - are unaware of all the incredible Mega Projects in various stages of development in this Gulf country. In this post I will attempt to list all of the Mega Projects in Qatar's largest city, Doha. Eighty percent of Qatar's population resides in or around Doha, and Doha is the economic center of Qatar. Therefore many of the most spectacular Qatar Mega Projects are located in Doha.

I have tried to make this list as accurate as possible, but there are so many projects being developed in Doha that I may have missed some of them. As with Dubai, just when I think I have found all the Doha Mega Projects, new ones seem to "pop up" out of nowhere...the rate of development is that fast! The projects on this list have either been built, are under construction or are planned for construction.

THE DOHA MEGA PROJECTS:

> Doha Convention Center Tower
> Barwa Tower
> Barwa City
> Barwa Financial District
> Barwa Al Doha
> Dubai Towers Doha
> Bin Samikh Tower
> Aspire Tower
> Palm Tower 1
> Palm Tower 2
> Burj Qatar
> Al Faisal Tower
> Qatar World Trade Centre
> Silhouette Tower
> Barjeel Tower
> Navigation Tower
> Al Bidda Tower
> QIPCO Tower
> Rotana Hotel
> Sky Garden Apartments
> Samiriyah Towers
> 44 West Bay Tower
> Al Zubara Tower
> Al Fardan Tower 1
> Al Farden Tower 2
> Arwa Tower
> Woqod Tower
> Qatar Telecom Headquarters
> Commercial Bank Plaza Tower
> Al Jazeera Tower
> Lagoon Plaza Tower 1
> Lagoon Plaza Tower 2
> Digital Sports Hotel
> Dafnah Tower 1
> Dafnah Tower 2
> Dafnah Tower 3
> Dafnah Tower 4
> Qatar Olympic Commitee
> Commercial Office Headquarters
> City Center 1-8
> Ritz Carlton Hotel
> Al Seal Residence
> Hilton Hotel
> La Cigale Hotel
> Al Waqf Tower
> West Bay Residential Tower A
> West Bay Residential Tower B
> Al Aryam Tower
> Ritaj Al-Rayyan Hotel
> Ministry of Interior Tower
> Bilal Suites
> Barzan Tower
> Gulf Tower
> Doha Tower
> Al Waseel Tower
> QIC Tower
> Suleiti Tower 1
> Suleiti Tower 2
> Al Faisal Tower
> Al Subayi Tower
> Al Saad Development
> Doha Cultural Village
> Al Hitmi Residential & Commercial Development
> TGW Tower
> BU2 Tower
> Taj Exotica Golf & Spa Resort
> Al Mana Towers

The Malkai, Oman

Oman is one of the most beautiful Middle Eastern countries I have ever seen. This Sultanate's Mega Projects tend to focus on the luxury tourist market. And who can blame them? With all that Oman has to offer I know that it will become a world tourist mecca! One of Oman's newest and most impressive Mega Projects is The Malkai. Being developed by Al Maeen Real Estate Services Company LLC at an estimated cost of $250Million, The Malkai is set to become a landmark Oman development.

The Malkai has been designed by AW2 of Paris to be a very exclusive community that will be made up of 101 four-bedroom villas and 92 two-bedroom suites, as well as a boutique hotel offering 40 luxury suites. Some of the exclusive features at The Malkai include:

> The Club. 'Built in true Arabian tradition with a central courtyard and at its centre a single, striking, colonnaded pond. A soaring double height foyer with vaulted ceiling will dramatically welcome you to The Club, hotel and golf club with pro-shop, golfer's bar and terrace over the first hole. Within will be the restaurants offering the finest of foods, the wine bar, cigar room and patisserie,' according to the developer.

> The Spa. Designed to be a magnificent sanctuary where residents and guests can come to relax and recuperate. The Spa will look like a vast walled garden and will offer individual "floating treatment pavilions" where natural rejuvenating therapies will be given by a first class staff.

> Golf. The Malkai will feature a 9-hole golf course designed by the legendary golf superstar Gary Player. This golf course will be a major tourist draw for The Malkai and Player himself commented: "Golf courses make great contributions to society. It'll be a great dream for me to see Oman produce a young Tiger Woods someday."

> The Hotel. An ultra luxurious boutique hotel with 40 spectacular suites, each suite having its own private swimming pool!

> The Beach Club. 'Residents will have access to a private and exclusive beach club - with chauffeur-driven transport door-to-door to allow you to make the most of this stunning coastline. Relax by the warm sea or club pool as your favorite food is prepared and delivered to you, or for a little more adventure, you can experience some of the outstanding water sports and activities on offer,' according to the developer.

Other amenities offered at The Malkai include: 4 tennis courts, library, corporate facilities, golf range, practice course, gardens, walkways, wine bar, pool bar, and a variety of fine restaurants.

"The Malkai will set a new benchmark in luxury living not only in Oman but also in the region. It will comprise a Country Club and Residences that will compare to some of the finest in the world. The Malkai is making a statement both in lifestyle and in architecture," said Mr. Pankaj Khimji, one of the investors in The Malkai.

By the end of 2010 The Malkai will be completed. All villas and suites are being made available on a freehold basis. The entire project will be operated by GHM of Singapore, a company that runs award winning properties all over the world. A limited number of 4 bedroom villas have already been offered at a cost of $3.6-$4Million each.

Oman is moving swiftly to become a leading world luxury destination. With developments like The Malkai, Oman will surely succeed!

This link takes you to The Malkai website:

http://www.themalkai.com