I have no doubt that the best place to live in Bahrain will be Villamar, located at the spectacular Bahrain Financial Harbour (BFH) in Manama, the capital of Bahrain. This $650Million Mega Residential Project being developed by Gulf Holding is one of the most exquisite residential developments I have seen anywhere in The Gulf! It is on par with the best being offered in Dubai and Abu Dhabi!
"We are extremely pleased with the launch of Villamar at the Harbour, the first residential development within BFH and therefore a milestone achievement. We congratulate Gulf Holding Company for delivering such a stunning world-class residential product within the overall design philosophy of BFH," said Mr. Esam Janahi, Chairman of Bahrain Financial Harbour.
Located on a site of over 32,000 square meters, Villamar will contain 2 different residential offerings:
> The Glass Towers. Three towers from 47 to 57 floors that, like all of Bahrain Financial Harbour, look like something from 200 years in the future! The towers have a gentle twist to them and are completely covered in blue-green glass to reflect the natural colors of Manama Bay. The towers face the sea to provide wonderful views for residents.
> The Floating Villas. These stunning villas make up the perimeter of the development. The villas rest on elevated towers 4 storeys high and have been designed to be "Villas In The Sky." These unique floating four and five bedroom residences feature double-height living spaces, balconies, and terraces with superb views of the boardwalk and the sea.
Another feature of Villamar is The Podium. The Podium is a series of landscaped terraces dropping towards the sea and featuring landscaped parks, pools and water walls. A health club and spa is located on the uppermost terrace providing unobstructed sea views. Parking for 1,800 cars is provided discreetly within the podium terraces.
Villamar will also have a Boardwalk that will be a major public attraction, featuring indoor and outdoor cafes, restaurants and boutique retail spaces. The experience of the Boardwalk includes shaded and air-cooled walkways, dancing water features and landscaped plazas.
"Bahrain has emerged as one of the most attractive real estate markets for investors in the region. Looking into the future it is very clear that the Bahrain Financial Harbour will be the focal point of the financial services industry in Bahrain and as such properties within it will be amongst the most prime real estate in the country. There is a clear need to provide residential accommodation of this quality within easy reach of the offices and facilities of BFH. We see this model operating successfully in other international financial centres such as Canary Wharf in London, ” said Mr. Faisal Al Mutawa, Chairman of Bayan Investment Company, a major shareholder of Gulf Holding.
There are many fine residences in Bahrain. Sukoon Tower, Amwaj Islands and Bahrain Bay to name just a few. However I feel that Villamar is truly the "Best of the Best" that Bahrain.... or anywhere else in The Gulf, has to offer!
This link takes you to the Villamar website:
http://www.villamarharbour.com/main.html
...and this link tales you to the Bahrain Financial Harbour website:
http://www.bfharbour.com/html/index.php
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Dubai Festival City
Dubai Festival City (DFC), being developed by Al-Futtaim Group, is a $5Billion mixed use Mega Project spanning 1300 acres and stretching 3 kilometers along the Dubai Creek. DFC has been designed to be a fully integrated and self contained waterfront "city within a city" community. DFC will offer the finest in residences, shopping and entertainment, upscale offices, hotels and even schools...all in one convenient location only 5 minutes from Dubai International Airport.
> City Living. DFC will be home to over 50,000 and will offer all kinds of residences from luxurious high rises and townhouses to more affordable homes for working professionals. Residences include:
**Marsa Plaza,
**Al Badia Residences,
**Al Badia Hillside Village,
**Al Areesh Club.
> Shopping and Dining. DFC offers a wide variety of shopping and restaurant choices including:
**Festival Waterfront Centre with 550 stores, 90 restaurants, and a mutliplex cinema,
**Dubai Gold Marketplace,
**Canal Walk featuring 40 restaurants,
**Festival Marina-- the yachting hub of DFC with over 100 berths as well as fine dining and shopping,
**Waterfront Pavilions offering unique shopping, dining and entertainment features,
**5-Star Concierge Service.
> Entertainment. DFC will offer a large variety of entertainment options:
**Al Badia Golf Course and Club. Managed by Four Seasons and designed by Robert Trent Jones ll,
**Bowling City. Bowling is booming all over the Middle East and DFC will have one of the best bowling centers in the UAE,
**Festival Marina will offer all kinds of yachting events,
**Grand Cinemas-- twelve screen cinema complex,
**Non-Stop Events. There are always a multitude of events going on at DFC.
> Hotels / Hospitality. DFC will offer some of the finest accommodations in Dubai:
**Four Seasons Dubai Festival City,
**W Dubai Festival City,
**Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City,
**Intercontinental Dubai Festival City,
**Intercontinental Residence Suites Dubai Festival City.
> Offices. DFC will offer enough office space for 50,000 personnel. The offices will be located in:
**Al Badia Business Park,
**Marsa Al Khor Business Park,
**Festival Tower.
> Marsa Automotive Park. A boulevard devoted to the automotive industry featuring showrooms with the following brands: Lexus, Toyota, Honda, Dodge, Volvo, Jeep and Chrysler.
Dubai Festival City is one of the finest mixed use Mega Projects being developed in the UAE. It will attract visitors from all over the Middle East and other parts of the world to the superlative lifestyle that Dubai has to offer!
Here is a DFC video from YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1X8rtHEZjs
This link takes you to the DFC website:
http://www.dubaifestivalcity.com/
> City Living. DFC will be home to over 50,000 and will offer all kinds of residences from luxurious high rises and townhouses to more affordable homes for working professionals. Residences include:
**Marsa Plaza,
**Al Badia Residences,
**Al Badia Hillside Village,
**Al Areesh Club.
> Shopping and Dining. DFC offers a wide variety of shopping and restaurant choices including:
**Festival Waterfront Centre with 550 stores, 90 restaurants, and a mutliplex cinema,
**Dubai Gold Marketplace,
**Canal Walk featuring 40 restaurants,
**Festival Marina-- the yachting hub of DFC with over 100 berths as well as fine dining and shopping,
**Waterfront Pavilions offering unique shopping, dining and entertainment features,
**5-Star Concierge Service.
> Entertainment. DFC will offer a large variety of entertainment options:
**Al Badia Golf Course and Club. Managed by Four Seasons and designed by Robert Trent Jones ll,
**Bowling City. Bowling is booming all over the Middle East and DFC will have one of the best bowling centers in the UAE,
**Festival Marina will offer all kinds of yachting events,
**Grand Cinemas-- twelve screen cinema complex,
**Non-Stop Events. There are always a multitude of events going on at DFC.
> Hotels / Hospitality. DFC will offer some of the finest accommodations in Dubai:
**Four Seasons Dubai Festival City,
**W Dubai Festival City,
**Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City,
**Intercontinental Dubai Festival City,
**Intercontinental Residence Suites Dubai Festival City.
> Offices. DFC will offer enough office space for 50,000 personnel. The offices will be located in:
**Al Badia Business Park,
**Marsa Al Khor Business Park,
**Festival Tower.
> Marsa Automotive Park. A boulevard devoted to the automotive industry featuring showrooms with the following brands: Lexus, Toyota, Honda, Dodge, Volvo, Jeep and Chrysler.
Dubai Festival City is one of the finest mixed use Mega Projects being developed in the UAE. It will attract visitors from all over the Middle East and other parts of the world to the superlative lifestyle that Dubai has to offer!
Here is a DFC video from YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1X8rtHEZjs
This link takes you to the DFC website:
http://www.dubaifestivalcity.com/
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Sky Tower, Reem Island, Abu Dhabi
Sky Tower, being developed by Sorouh, is located in the Gate District of Shams Abu Dhabi on Reem Island. Sky Tower will be one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world when finished, rising to a height of 300 meters/74 storeys. According to Sorouh:
'The Sky Tower creates a new perspective on life, with spectacular panoramic views of the Gulf and Abu Dhabi Island. This striking 74-storey elliptical edifice combines residential and commercial space assembled vertically around a central core. Clean modern lines and quality finishes define the interior spaces, while state-of-the-art amenities underwrite the lifestyle offering. Residents and workers are assured of a space that sets the ultimate standards in luxury and convenience.'
Sky Tower will have 3 separate areas: Residential, Business and Retail:
> RESIDENTIAL
The top 34 floors of the tower, starting at the 41st, will all be residential. Apartments will be offered in a choice of 1, 2, 3, and 4 bedrooms. For those who want the ultimate in Reem Island luxury, 3 and 4 bedroom duplex penthouses will also be offered. There will be 8 express elevators in Sky Tower that will do nothing but serve the residential units! Residents also have their own private lobby. A wide variety of amenities include:
**Fully-Equipped 180,000 sqft Fitness and Leisure Center,
**Spa with sauna, steam room, and massage rooms with separate male and female areas,
**A 10,000 sqft Gymnasium containing state-of-the-art equipment,
**3 Tennis Courts,
**2 Squash Courts,
**70m Infinity Pool,
**Lap Pool,
**Sun Deck,
**Party Room,
**Yoga Lawn.
> BUSINESS / OFFICE SPACE
All of the offices will be luxurious with floor to ceiling windows giving panoramic views. The technology will all be state-of-the-art and the highest quality materials are used artistically throughout to convey superior levels of elegance and urban sophistication. This is going to be one of the most prestigious office locations in Abu Dhabi.
> RETAIL / ENTERTAINMENT
Sky Tower will contain a 130,000 sqft shopping and entertainment district centered on an atrium linked internally to the level 1 lobby and to the street. This district will offer:
**Fine Dining Restaurants,
**Cafes,
**Gourmet Food Market,
**Bakery,
**Hair & Beauty Salon,
**Pharmacy,
**Travel Agent,
**Real Estate Agent,
**News Stand,
**Book Store,
**Dry Cleaner.
Mounir Haidar, CEO of Sorouh, said this about Sky Tower:
"The Sky Tower offers a unique combination of facilities that will enable it to support all the essential needs of its occupants on site. This distinguishes it from other major projects in the region."
Sky Tower will be one of the iconic landmarks of Reem Island. It will be one of the most prestigious locations to live and work in all of Abu Dhabi.
This link takes you to the Sky Tower section of the Sorouh website:
http://www.sorouh.com/Developments/OurProjects/Developments/3/Default.aspx
...and this link takes you to the Gate District at Shams Abu Dhabi website:
http://www.sorouh.com/microsites/gate/main.html
'The Sky Tower creates a new perspective on life, with spectacular panoramic views of the Gulf and Abu Dhabi Island. This striking 74-storey elliptical edifice combines residential and commercial space assembled vertically around a central core. Clean modern lines and quality finishes define the interior spaces, while state-of-the-art amenities underwrite the lifestyle offering. Residents and workers are assured of a space that sets the ultimate standards in luxury and convenience.'
Sky Tower will have 3 separate areas: Residential, Business and Retail:
> RESIDENTIAL
The top 34 floors of the tower, starting at the 41st, will all be residential. Apartments will be offered in a choice of 1, 2, 3, and 4 bedrooms. For those who want the ultimate in Reem Island luxury, 3 and 4 bedroom duplex penthouses will also be offered. There will be 8 express elevators in Sky Tower that will do nothing but serve the residential units! Residents also have their own private lobby. A wide variety of amenities include:
**Fully-Equipped 180,000 sqft Fitness and Leisure Center,
**Spa with sauna, steam room, and massage rooms with separate male and female areas,
**A 10,000 sqft Gymnasium containing state-of-the-art equipment,
**3 Tennis Courts,
**2 Squash Courts,
**70m Infinity Pool,
**Lap Pool,
**Sun Deck,
**Party Room,
**Yoga Lawn.
> BUSINESS / OFFICE SPACE
All of the offices will be luxurious with floor to ceiling windows giving panoramic views. The technology will all be state-of-the-art and the highest quality materials are used artistically throughout to convey superior levels of elegance and urban sophistication. This is going to be one of the most prestigious office locations in Abu Dhabi.
> RETAIL / ENTERTAINMENT
Sky Tower will contain a 130,000 sqft shopping and entertainment district centered on an atrium linked internally to the level 1 lobby and to the street. This district will offer:
**Fine Dining Restaurants,
**Cafes,
**Gourmet Food Market,
**Bakery,
**Hair & Beauty Salon,
**Pharmacy,
**Travel Agent,
**Real Estate Agent,
**News Stand,
**Book Store,
**Dry Cleaner.
Mounir Haidar, CEO of Sorouh, said this about Sky Tower:
"The Sky Tower offers a unique combination of facilities that will enable it to support all the essential needs of its occupants on site. This distinguishes it from other major projects in the region."
Sky Tower will be one of the iconic landmarks of Reem Island. It will be one of the most prestigious locations to live and work in all of Abu Dhabi.
This link takes you to the Sky Tower section of the Sorouh website:
http://www.sorouh.com/Developments/OurProjects/Developments/3/Default.aspx
...and this link takes you to the Gate District at Shams Abu Dhabi website:
http://www.sorouh.com/microsites/gate/main.html
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Jazan Economic City, Saudi Arabia
Jazan Economic City (JEC) is a Mega Project being developed by MMC and Saudi Binladen Group. The City will be built in the Province of Jazan which lies in the south west section of Saudi Arabia. Jazan has a population of approximately 1.2 million and covers an area of 40,000 sq km. It is ideally situated on the southern Red Sea Coast with a coastline of almost 300 km and in close proximity to the main east and west sea trade routes to Europe, the Far East and the Arabian Gulf.
According to JEC's developers: 'JEC will be wholly dedicated to pioneering further development of Saudi Arabia’s economy and her people. The proposed city of the future offers a timely opportunity to nurture non-oil based industries and to build and expand on new industries relevant to the Kingdom’s needs and aspirations.'
JEC will be divided into 4 distinct areas as follows:
1.) Heavy Industries;
- Power Plant
- Port
- Aluminum Smelter
- Refinery
- Dry Dock
2.) Secondary Industries;
- Silicon Processing
- Tech/Agritech Park
- Textiles
- Pharmaceuticals
- Food Processing
- Chemicals and Plastics
- Secondary Manufacturing
- Construction Materials
- Metal Fabrication
3.) Human Capital;
- Commercial Business District
- Education Area
- Recreation and Sports Facilities
- Convention and Exhibition Area
- Civic Administration
- Grand Mosque
4.) Lifestyle;
- Hotels and Leisure Developments
- Marina
- Residences
When I take a look at this project in its entirety I see that JEC is one of the most well balanced and well thought out Saudi Mega Projects I have seen to date. More facts on JEC from the developers:
> JEC represents one of the most important hubs on the coastline of the Red Sea, strategically in close proximity to local and international markets. Accordingly, this provides opportunities for better trade relations between Asia and Africa, offering valuable opportunities for investment and facilitating sea navigation and cargo shipping.
> JEC will draw more than a hundred million Saudi Riyals worth of private investment from the various sectors in the Economic City, consequently also contributing to 500,000 direct and indirect jobs.
> A large portion of the residential area lies on the periphery of the Gulf Coast, and the developers have designed residential marina housing, which will contribute to providing opportunities for the development of the real estate and encourage the luxurious lifestyle of the residents.
> JEC offers various lifestyle accommodations for its employees, hosting nearly 250,000 residents, which will in turn, vitalize residential and real estate development, especially near the education and health services vicinities.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is rapidly expanding and developing world class Mega Projects. Jazan Economic City will contribute greatly to the economic growth of this great Arab Nation!
This link takes you to the JEC website:
http://jazanecity.com/en/index.asp
According to JEC's developers: 'JEC will be wholly dedicated to pioneering further development of Saudi Arabia’s economy and her people. The proposed city of the future offers a timely opportunity to nurture non-oil based industries and to build and expand on new industries relevant to the Kingdom’s needs and aspirations.'
JEC will be divided into 4 distinct areas as follows:
1.) Heavy Industries;
- Power Plant
- Port
- Aluminum Smelter
- Refinery
- Dry Dock
2.) Secondary Industries;
- Silicon Processing
- Tech/Agritech Park
- Textiles
- Pharmaceuticals
- Food Processing
- Chemicals and Plastics
- Secondary Manufacturing
- Construction Materials
- Metal Fabrication
3.) Human Capital;
- Commercial Business District
- Education Area
- Recreation and Sports Facilities
- Convention and Exhibition Area
- Civic Administration
- Grand Mosque
4.) Lifestyle;
- Hotels and Leisure Developments
- Marina
- Residences
When I take a look at this project in its entirety I see that JEC is one of the most well balanced and well thought out Saudi Mega Projects I have seen to date. More facts on JEC from the developers:
> JEC represents one of the most important hubs on the coastline of the Red Sea, strategically in close proximity to local and international markets. Accordingly, this provides opportunities for better trade relations between Asia and Africa, offering valuable opportunities for investment and facilitating sea navigation and cargo shipping.
> JEC will draw more than a hundred million Saudi Riyals worth of private investment from the various sectors in the Economic City, consequently also contributing to 500,000 direct and indirect jobs.
> A large portion of the residential area lies on the periphery of the Gulf Coast, and the developers have designed residential marina housing, which will contribute to providing opportunities for the development of the real estate and encourage the luxurious lifestyle of the residents.
> JEC offers various lifestyle accommodations for its employees, hosting nearly 250,000 residents, which will in turn, vitalize residential and real estate development, especially near the education and health services vicinities.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is rapidly expanding and developing world class Mega Projects. Jazan Economic City will contribute greatly to the economic growth of this great Arab Nation!
This link takes you to the JEC website:
http://jazanecity.com/en/index.asp
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Soma Bay, Red Sea Coast, Egypt
Egypt is moving ahead strongly with Mega Project development and many of these projects focus on the resort / vacation sector of the market. Soma Bay is one of Egypt's most exclusive Mega Resort Projects. A completely self contained ten million square meter community located on the "Red Sea Riviera," Soma Bay is only a 4 hour flight from Central Europe and offers some of the most beautiful sandy beaches of the Red Sea as well as year round sunshine and a temperate climate.
SOMA BAY FEATURES:
>> Resort Hotels. Soma Bay has 3 of the finest resort hotels in the world:
**La Residence des Cascades. A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, La Residence is positioned on the highest point of the peninsula of Soma Bay. The hotel contains 250 guest rooms and suites that overlook the Cascades Championship Golf Course. La Residence is also home to one of the largest and most exclusive thalasso therapy centers in the world, Les Thermes Marins des Cascades.
**Sheraton Soma Bay Resort. The 312 room resort features Egyptian themed architecture in the spirit of the ancient Pharaohs and has one of the most beautiful sandy beaches on the Red Sea. It also features 3 sweet water pools... two of which are heated, windsurfing and sailing instruction, 3 tennis courts, a squash court, a gymnasium and a croquet court. Sheraton Soma Bay regularly wins accolades for the quality and friendliness of its service. It has been recognized by TUI in 2002 as the best Resort in Egypt!
**Robinson Club. This 300 room resort hotel offers a continuous program of sports activities and entertainment, including after dinner shows in its open-air theater. Sports facilities include diving, windsurfing, and sailing centers, seven tennis courts, a gymnasium and aerobics center, and two sweet water heated pools.
**Two more hotels will be opening soon in Soma Bay, The Breakers Diving and Surfing Lodge and Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay.
>> Cascades Golf and Country Club. One of Soma Bay's most attractive features, Cascades offers a Gary Player designed 18-hole, par 72 Championship Golf Course. Next to this course is a 9-hole, par 3 Challenge Course also designed by Gary Player. A Golf Academy and the Cascades Club House is located here as well.
>> Les Thermes Marins des Cascades. This Spa, as I noted earlier, is part of La Residence des Cascades and features thalasso therapy. This type of therapy is based on the curative properties of sea water and seaweed. The concept of thalasso therapy relies on the simultaneous use of all aspects of the marine environment with both a preventative and curative objective and according to Les Thermes:
'Treatments respond to the needs for relaxation, beauty, slimness, improved blood circulation and the relief of minor back and neck ailments. The effectiveness of the different treatments complement and reinforce one another, resulting in new vitality, improved form and more balanced health.'
>> Water Sports. Soma Bay, being located right on the Red Sea Coast, will have its own Marina and offer all kinds of water sports including:
- Scuba Diving
- Snorkeling
- Diving
- Kitesurfing
- Windsurfing
>> Resort Homes. For those who wish to purchase a residence, Soma Bay offers a variety of home choices:
- Bay Villas
- Reef Villas
- Golf Villas & Apartments
- Marina Apartments
- Soma Breeze Hotel Residences
All of these Soma Bay residences make a perfect second home getaway in what I consider to be one of the most beautiful resort destinations in the world.
Soma Bay is a total Mega Resort Project. It offers everything required for a relaxing first class holiday!
Here is a Soma Bay video from YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zj66rW1qx2k&feature=related
This link takes you to the Soma Bay website:
http://www.somabay.com/
SOMA BAY FEATURES:
>> Resort Hotels. Soma Bay has 3 of the finest resort hotels in the world:
**La Residence des Cascades. A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, La Residence is positioned on the highest point of the peninsula of Soma Bay. The hotel contains 250 guest rooms and suites that overlook the Cascades Championship Golf Course. La Residence is also home to one of the largest and most exclusive thalasso therapy centers in the world, Les Thermes Marins des Cascades.
**Sheraton Soma Bay Resort. The 312 room resort features Egyptian themed architecture in the spirit of the ancient Pharaohs and has one of the most beautiful sandy beaches on the Red Sea. It also features 3 sweet water pools... two of which are heated, windsurfing and sailing instruction, 3 tennis courts, a squash court, a gymnasium and a croquet court. Sheraton Soma Bay regularly wins accolades for the quality and friendliness of its service. It has been recognized by TUI in 2002 as the best Resort in Egypt!
**Robinson Club. This 300 room resort hotel offers a continuous program of sports activities and entertainment, including after dinner shows in its open-air theater. Sports facilities include diving, windsurfing, and sailing centers, seven tennis courts, a gymnasium and aerobics center, and two sweet water heated pools.
**Two more hotels will be opening soon in Soma Bay, The Breakers Diving and Surfing Lodge and Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay.
>> Cascades Golf and Country Club. One of Soma Bay's most attractive features, Cascades offers a Gary Player designed 18-hole, par 72 Championship Golf Course. Next to this course is a 9-hole, par 3 Challenge Course also designed by Gary Player. A Golf Academy and the Cascades Club House is located here as well.
>> Les Thermes Marins des Cascades. This Spa, as I noted earlier, is part of La Residence des Cascades and features thalasso therapy. This type of therapy is based on the curative properties of sea water and seaweed. The concept of thalasso therapy relies on the simultaneous use of all aspects of the marine environment with both a preventative and curative objective and according to Les Thermes:
'Treatments respond to the needs for relaxation, beauty, slimness, improved blood circulation and the relief of minor back and neck ailments. The effectiveness of the different treatments complement and reinforce one another, resulting in new vitality, improved form and more balanced health.'
>> Water Sports. Soma Bay, being located right on the Red Sea Coast, will have its own Marina and offer all kinds of water sports including:
- Scuba Diving
- Snorkeling
- Diving
- Kitesurfing
- Windsurfing
>> Resort Homes. For those who wish to purchase a residence, Soma Bay offers a variety of home choices:
- Bay Villas
- Reef Villas
- Golf Villas & Apartments
- Marina Apartments
- Soma Breeze Hotel Residences
All of these Soma Bay residences make a perfect second home getaway in what I consider to be one of the most beautiful resort destinations in the world.
Soma Bay is a total Mega Resort Project. It offers everything required for a relaxing first class holiday!
Here is a Soma Bay video from YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zj66rW1qx2k&feature=related
This link takes you to the Soma Bay website:
http://www.somabay.com/
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
ARAB BILLIONAIRES 2008!!
Every year ArabianBusiness.com comes out with their 'World's 50 Richest Arabs' list. These are the richest and most powerful Arabs! They are involved in every kind of business and commerce you can imagine. They are the movers and shakers of the business world!
What follows is the complete 2008 list of the world's richest Arabs. Please note that there are 49 names on the list, not 50. This is because ArabianBusiness.com lists number 30 on their list as "Entry removed due to calculation error" so I did not include that on this list.
ARAB BILLIONAIRES 2008
1.) Prince Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud, US$ 17.08 Billion, Saudi Arabia
2.) Nasser Al Kharafi, US$ 9.6 Billion, Kuwait
3.) Maan Al Sanea, US$ 9.3 Billion, Saudi Arabia
4.) Sheikh Mohammed bin Issa Al Jabber, US$ 8.8 Billion, Saudi Arabia
5.) Mohammad Al Amoudi, US$ 8.8 Billion, Saudi Arabia
6.) Abdulaziz Al Ghurair, US$ 7.8 Billion, United Arab Emirates
7.) The Bin Laden Family, US$ 7.2 Billion, Saudi Arabia
8.) The Olayan Family, US$ 7.2 Billion, Saudi Arabia
9.) The Kanoo Family, US$ 6.1 Billion, Bahrain
10.) Said Khoury, US$ 6 Billion, Palestine
11.) Sulaiman Al Rajhi, US$ 5.4 Billion, Saudi Arabia
12.) Saleh Kamel, US$ 5.3 Billion, Saudi Arabia
13.) The Al Shaya Family, US$ 5.1 Billion, Kuwait
14.) The Gargash Family, US$ 5 Billion, United Arab Emirates
15.) Mahdi Al-Tajir, US$ 4.4 Billion, United Arab Emirates
16.) Hasib Sabbagh, US$ 4.3 Billion, Palestine
17.) Majid Al Futtaim, US$ 4.3 Billion, United Arab Emirates
18.) Abdullah Al Futtaim, US$ 4.3 Billion, United Arab Emirates
19.) The Algosaibi Family, US$ 3.6 Billion, Saudi Arabia
20.) Shwan Al-Mulla, US$ 3.4 Billion, Iraq
21.) The Al Zamil Family, US$ 3.4 Billion, Saudi Arabia
22.) Mohamed Abdul Latif Jameel, US$ 3.3 Billion, Saudi Arabia
23.) The Sawiris Family, US$ 3.2 Billion, Egypt
24.) Khalid bin Mahfouz, US$ 3.2 Billion, Saudi Arabia
25.) Saleh Al Rajhi, US$ 3.1 Billion, Saudi Arabia
26.) Suad Al Humaidi, US$ 3 Billion, Kuwait
27.) Sheikh Walid Al Ibrahim, US$ 2.9 Billion, Saudi Arabia
28.) Abdullah Al Rajhi, US$ 2.9 Billion, Saudi Arabia
29.) Nadhmi Auchi, US$ 2.8 Billion, Iraq
30.) Saad Hariri, US$ 2.6 Billion, Lebanon
31.) Issam Fares, US$ 2.4 Billion, Lebanon
32.) Bahaa Hariri, US$ 2.3 Billion, Lebanon
33.) Mohammed Shafik Gabr, US$ 2.2 Billion, Egypt
34.) The Al Rostamani Family, US$ 2.2 Billion, United Arab Emirates
35.) Ayman Hariri, US$ 2.1 Billion, Lebanon
36.) The Shoman Family, US$ 1.9 Billion, Palestine
37.) Omar Ayesh, US$ 1.8 Billion, United Arab Emirates
38.) The Boodai Family, US$ 1.7 Billion, Kuwait
39.) Tareq Sultan, US$ 1.7 Billion, Kuwait
40.) Al Tayer Family, US$ 1.7 Billion, United Arab Emirates
41.) Mohamed Al Bahar, US$ 1.7 Billion, Kuwait
42.) The Alghanim Family, US$ 1.6 Billion, Kuwait
43.) Munib Al Masri, US$ 1.6 Billion, Palestine
44.) Ziad Manasir, US$ 1.6 Billion, Jordan
45.) Ahmed Ezz, US$ 1.5 Billion, Egypt
46.) Najib Mikati, US$ 1.5 Billion, Lebanon
47.) Hesham Talaat Moustafa, US$ 1.5 Billion, Egypt
48.) Fayez Sarofim, US$ 1.4 Billion, Egypt
49.) Mohammed Al Rajhi, US$ 1.1 Billion, Saudi Arabia
This link takes you to the ArabianBusiness.com 'World's 50 Richest Arabs' article. Here you will see the list as well as other interesting information about the Arab Billionaires.
http://www.arabianbusiness.com/richlist/list?clr=
What follows is the complete 2008 list of the world's richest Arabs. Please note that there are 49 names on the list, not 50. This is because ArabianBusiness.com lists number 30 on their list as "Entry removed due to calculation error" so I did not include that on this list.
ARAB BILLIONAIRES 2008
1.) Prince Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud, US$ 17.08 Billion, Saudi Arabia
2.) Nasser Al Kharafi, US$ 9.6 Billion, Kuwait
3.) Maan Al Sanea, US$ 9.3 Billion, Saudi Arabia
4.) Sheikh Mohammed bin Issa Al Jabber, US$ 8.8 Billion, Saudi Arabia
5.) Mohammad Al Amoudi, US$ 8.8 Billion, Saudi Arabia
6.) Abdulaziz Al Ghurair, US$ 7.8 Billion, United Arab Emirates
7.) The Bin Laden Family, US$ 7.2 Billion, Saudi Arabia
8.) The Olayan Family, US$ 7.2 Billion, Saudi Arabia
9.) The Kanoo Family, US$ 6.1 Billion, Bahrain
10.) Said Khoury, US$ 6 Billion, Palestine
11.) Sulaiman Al Rajhi, US$ 5.4 Billion, Saudi Arabia
12.) Saleh Kamel, US$ 5.3 Billion, Saudi Arabia
13.) The Al Shaya Family, US$ 5.1 Billion, Kuwait
14.) The Gargash Family, US$ 5 Billion, United Arab Emirates
15.) Mahdi Al-Tajir, US$ 4.4 Billion, United Arab Emirates
16.) Hasib Sabbagh, US$ 4.3 Billion, Palestine
17.) Majid Al Futtaim, US$ 4.3 Billion, United Arab Emirates
18.) Abdullah Al Futtaim, US$ 4.3 Billion, United Arab Emirates
19.) The Algosaibi Family, US$ 3.6 Billion, Saudi Arabia
20.) Shwan Al-Mulla, US$ 3.4 Billion, Iraq
21.) The Al Zamil Family, US$ 3.4 Billion, Saudi Arabia
22.) Mohamed Abdul Latif Jameel, US$ 3.3 Billion, Saudi Arabia
23.) The Sawiris Family, US$ 3.2 Billion, Egypt
24.) Khalid bin Mahfouz, US$ 3.2 Billion, Saudi Arabia
25.) Saleh Al Rajhi, US$ 3.1 Billion, Saudi Arabia
26.) Suad Al Humaidi, US$ 3 Billion, Kuwait
27.) Sheikh Walid Al Ibrahim, US$ 2.9 Billion, Saudi Arabia
28.) Abdullah Al Rajhi, US$ 2.9 Billion, Saudi Arabia
29.) Nadhmi Auchi, US$ 2.8 Billion, Iraq
30.) Saad Hariri, US$ 2.6 Billion, Lebanon
31.) Issam Fares, US$ 2.4 Billion, Lebanon
32.) Bahaa Hariri, US$ 2.3 Billion, Lebanon
33.) Mohammed Shafik Gabr, US$ 2.2 Billion, Egypt
34.) The Al Rostamani Family, US$ 2.2 Billion, United Arab Emirates
35.) Ayman Hariri, US$ 2.1 Billion, Lebanon
36.) The Shoman Family, US$ 1.9 Billion, Palestine
37.) Omar Ayesh, US$ 1.8 Billion, United Arab Emirates
38.) The Boodai Family, US$ 1.7 Billion, Kuwait
39.) Tareq Sultan, US$ 1.7 Billion, Kuwait
40.) Al Tayer Family, US$ 1.7 Billion, United Arab Emirates
41.) Mohamed Al Bahar, US$ 1.7 Billion, Kuwait
42.) The Alghanim Family, US$ 1.6 Billion, Kuwait
43.) Munib Al Masri, US$ 1.6 Billion, Palestine
44.) Ziad Manasir, US$ 1.6 Billion, Jordan
45.) Ahmed Ezz, US$ 1.5 Billion, Egypt
46.) Najib Mikati, US$ 1.5 Billion, Lebanon
47.) Hesham Talaat Moustafa, US$ 1.5 Billion, Egypt
48.) Fayez Sarofim, US$ 1.4 Billion, Egypt
49.) Mohammed Al Rajhi, US$ 1.1 Billion, Saudi Arabia
This link takes you to the ArabianBusiness.com 'World's 50 Richest Arabs' article. Here you will see the list as well as other interesting information about the Arab Billionaires.
http://www.arabianbusiness.com/richlist/list?clr=
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Dubai Pearl
The Dubai Pearl is a huge mixed-use Mega Project being developed by a consortium of investors led by the Al Fahim Group and being built over an area of 1.7 million square feet, at a cost of $4Billion. Dubai Pearl is located in the Dubai Media and Technology Freezone and is only:
- 5 minutes from Dubai Marina,
- 10 minutes from Emirates Golf Club,
- 15 minutes from Jebel Ali Port and Free Zone,
- 20 minutes from Dubai International Airport,
- 50 minutes from Abu Dhabi.
Dubai Pearl has been designed to be a Pedestrian City which means the entire project is easily walkable, and what I really like about this development is that it will be climate controlled.....OUTSIDE. This "weather buffering" technology is being used more and more in Dubai Mega Projects including Jumeirah Lake Towers and Dubai International Financial Centre. It can actually cool outside areas just as air conditioning cools inside areas. You will see more and more of this all over The Gulf in order to eliminate the one big problem of this region....the heat.
Dubai Pearl, being a "city within a city," will offer everything you would expect from a multi billion dollar Dubai Mega Project including:
**Six, 5-Star Hotels including the Baccarat Hotel & Residences,
**Premium Residential and Commercial space,
**International Retail and Leisure Venues,
**Luxury Fashion Precinct,
**Boulevard of Luxury Boutiques,
**Gourmet Restaurants,
**2000 Seat Performing Theatre,
**Cinema Complex,
**Covered Parking for 16,500 vehicles,
**Landscaped Walkways,
**Sports Club,
**World Class Spa and Recreation Facilities,
**Jogging Track and Wellness Clinic.
The centerpiece of Dubai Pearl is the magnificent Dubai Pearl Tower. This is one of the most massive and impressive buildings I have ever seen. I predict it will become a Dubai monument right up there with Burj Dubai, Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab. The gigantic Dubai Pearl Tower will be mixed use and contain the following:
Residential Areas:
> Sky Palaces with private gardens and pools,
> Sky Penthouses,
> Luxury Apartments,
> Branded Apartments,
> High speed elevators,
> Viewing Decks on every floor,
> Private Lobbies,
> Assigned underground parking.
These residences will be some of the finest in The Gulf and I have seen prices ranging from $1.25Million to $4Million depending on the size of the unit and its location within the Tower. However with real estate prices being slashed in Dubai look to pay far less!
Hospitality Areas:
> 5-Star Hotels,
> Boutique Hotels,
> Luxury Hotel Residences,
> World-Class Spa,
> International Restaurants and Entertainment.
Business Areas:
> Situated within the Dubai Media and Technology Free Zone (TECOM),
> 100% Foreign Ownership,
> 100% Repatriation of Capital,
> No Minimum Capital Investment,
> No Currency Restriction,
> No Corporate Taxes.
One of the best things about having an office at Dubai Pearl is that you can also buy one of the great residences offered, and virtually eliminate those annoying Dubai commutes to work!
Retail Areas:
> Luxury Shopping Mall,
> 21st Century Covent Garden,
> International and Themed Restaurants,
> Side-Walk Cafes,
> Premium Retail Space,
> Ample Parking.
"We conceived and planned Dubai Pearl as an international quality landmark that will continue to reinforce Dubai as a global city of excellence. Arguably the best location in Dubai deserves nothing less I believe," said Abdul Majeed Al Fahim, Chairman, Dubai Pearl
Dubai Pearl has everything it takes to become another spectacular monument for the region. The architecture of the project and the overall grandeur of the Dubai Pearl Tower will make this Mega Project a World Icon!
This link takes you to the Dubai Pearl website:
http://www.dubaipearl.com/
- 5 minutes from Dubai Marina,
- 10 minutes from Emirates Golf Club,
- 15 minutes from Jebel Ali Port and Free Zone,
- 20 minutes from Dubai International Airport,
- 50 minutes from Abu Dhabi.
Dubai Pearl has been designed to be a Pedestrian City which means the entire project is easily walkable, and what I really like about this development is that it will be climate controlled.....OUTSIDE. This "weather buffering" technology is being used more and more in Dubai Mega Projects including Jumeirah Lake Towers and Dubai International Financial Centre. It can actually cool outside areas just as air conditioning cools inside areas. You will see more and more of this all over The Gulf in order to eliminate the one big problem of this region....the heat.
Dubai Pearl, being a "city within a city," will offer everything you would expect from a multi billion dollar Dubai Mega Project including:
**Six, 5-Star Hotels including the Baccarat Hotel & Residences,
**Premium Residential and Commercial space,
**International Retail and Leisure Venues,
**Luxury Fashion Precinct,
**Boulevard of Luxury Boutiques,
**Gourmet Restaurants,
**2000 Seat Performing Theatre,
**Cinema Complex,
**Covered Parking for 16,500 vehicles,
**Landscaped Walkways,
**Sports Club,
**World Class Spa and Recreation Facilities,
**Jogging Track and Wellness Clinic.
The centerpiece of Dubai Pearl is the magnificent Dubai Pearl Tower. This is one of the most massive and impressive buildings I have ever seen. I predict it will become a Dubai monument right up there with Burj Dubai, Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab. The gigantic Dubai Pearl Tower will be mixed use and contain the following:
Residential Areas:
> Sky Palaces with private gardens and pools,
> Sky Penthouses,
> Luxury Apartments,
> Branded Apartments,
> High speed elevators,
> Viewing Decks on every floor,
> Private Lobbies,
> Assigned underground parking.
These residences will be some of the finest in The Gulf and I have seen prices ranging from $1.25Million to $4Million depending on the size of the unit and its location within the Tower. However with real estate prices being slashed in Dubai look to pay far less!
Hospitality Areas:
> 5-Star Hotels,
> Boutique Hotels,
> Luxury Hotel Residences,
> World-Class Spa,
> International Restaurants and Entertainment.
Business Areas:
> Situated within the Dubai Media and Technology Free Zone (TECOM),
> 100% Foreign Ownership,
> 100% Repatriation of Capital,
> No Minimum Capital Investment,
> No Currency Restriction,
> No Corporate Taxes.
One of the best things about having an office at Dubai Pearl is that you can also buy one of the great residences offered, and virtually eliminate those annoying Dubai commutes to work!
Retail Areas:
> Luxury Shopping Mall,
> 21st Century Covent Garden,
> International and Themed Restaurants,
> Side-Walk Cafes,
> Premium Retail Space,
> Ample Parking.
"We conceived and planned Dubai Pearl as an international quality landmark that will continue to reinforce Dubai as a global city of excellence. Arguably the best location in Dubai deserves nothing less I believe," said Abdul Majeed Al Fahim, Chairman, Dubai Pearl
Dubai Pearl has everything it takes to become another spectacular monument for the region. The architecture of the project and the overall grandeur of the Dubai Pearl Tower will make this Mega Project a World Icon!
This link takes you to the Dubai Pearl website:
http://www.dubaipearl.com/
Monday, December 1, 2008
Dubai Marina Yacht Club
Dubai is perfectly positioning itself to become one of the top yachting destinations of the world. Ideally located on The Gulf and a top destination for the world's Jet Set, I predict that Dubai will soon be known as the place to be if you are part of the Yachting World. The magnificent Dubai Marina will be the hub for yachting in Dubai, although Dubai will have a number of other exclusive marinas including those being developed by Island Global Yachting.
Since the Dubai Marina will be yachting central for Dubai it is only fitting that Emaar, developer of Dubai Marina, build an exclusive yacht club. And they have-- the newly opened Dubai Marina Yacht Club (DMYC)! According to DMYC:
'Set in the heart of ‘New Dubai’, the Dubai Marina Yacht Club (DMYC) is one of the largest private yacht clubs in the world, with a stunning purpose-built clubhouse and four marinas spread over a manmade 3.5-kilometre canal.
'More than simply a club for those with yachts or a love of the ocean, the DMYC was conceived and designed to satisfy the finer things in life, with both the clubhouse and marina facilities ensuring a 5-star experience from the moment the member arrives at the clubhouse or marina, with fully-trained and knowledgeable staff on call to ensure all marine lifestyle needs are served immediately.'
Eventually DMYC will be home to 500 yachts! Wow!! DMYC contains one of the most architecturally stunning clubhouses you will find anywhere in the world designed by architects Holfords with Hirsch Bedner Associates Design Consultants. At DMYC you will also find:
> Retail Shopping Arcade,
> International Yacht Broker Offices,
> Yacht Chartering,
> Yachting Fashion Boutique,
> Restaurants of all kinds including the world class Aquara seafood restaurant.
There will be special members only facilities and features at DMYC that will include: library and chart room, conference rooms, rooftop garden terrace, VIP courtesy cars, exclusive member events including cocktail parties and boat product launches, valet boat service, member service agents to assist members with all aspects of yacht ownership, etc.
The General Manager of DMYC, Steven Stiglbauer, had this to say:
"Dubai Marina Yacht Club is the first marine club in the extensive portfolio of Emaar and is our contribution to the rich marine sports heritage of the region. The club will drive the marine sports and leisure industry of Dubai and serve as the ultimate destination for marine enthusiasts and boat owners. The diverse array of specially tailored facilities for boat owners will greatly add to their convenience and make marine pursuits easier than ever before.
"The Dubai Marina Yacht Club also welcomes non-members. Apart from restaurants that offer spectacular waterfront views, the Club looks forward to familiarizing them with the Marina-based lifestyle and inspiring them to be active participants in marine pastimes."
DMYC is the perfect addition to the Dubai portfolio of marine related projects. And although at the moment Dubai, like the rest of the world, is taking a beating from the global financial melt-down, this great Emirate shall continue to grow and expand!
This link takes you to the DMYC website:
http://www.dubaimarinayachtclub.com
Since the Dubai Marina will be yachting central for Dubai it is only fitting that Emaar, developer of Dubai Marina, build an exclusive yacht club. And they have-- the newly opened Dubai Marina Yacht Club (DMYC)! According to DMYC:
'Set in the heart of ‘New Dubai’, the Dubai Marina Yacht Club (DMYC) is one of the largest private yacht clubs in the world, with a stunning purpose-built clubhouse and four marinas spread over a manmade 3.5-kilometre canal.
'More than simply a club for those with yachts or a love of the ocean, the DMYC was conceived and designed to satisfy the finer things in life, with both the clubhouse and marina facilities ensuring a 5-star experience from the moment the member arrives at the clubhouse or marina, with fully-trained and knowledgeable staff on call to ensure all marine lifestyle needs are served immediately.'
Eventually DMYC will be home to 500 yachts! Wow!! DMYC contains one of the most architecturally stunning clubhouses you will find anywhere in the world designed by architects Holfords with Hirsch Bedner Associates Design Consultants. At DMYC you will also find:
> Retail Shopping Arcade,
> International Yacht Broker Offices,
> Yacht Chartering,
> Yachting Fashion Boutique,
> Restaurants of all kinds including the world class Aquara seafood restaurant.
There will be special members only facilities and features at DMYC that will include: library and chart room, conference rooms, rooftop garden terrace, VIP courtesy cars, exclusive member events including cocktail parties and boat product launches, valet boat service, member service agents to assist members with all aspects of yacht ownership, etc.
The General Manager of DMYC, Steven Stiglbauer, had this to say:
"Dubai Marina Yacht Club is the first marine club in the extensive portfolio of Emaar and is our contribution to the rich marine sports heritage of the region. The club will drive the marine sports and leisure industry of Dubai and serve as the ultimate destination for marine enthusiasts and boat owners. The diverse array of specially tailored facilities for boat owners will greatly add to their convenience and make marine pursuits easier than ever before.
"The Dubai Marina Yacht Club also welcomes non-members. Apart from restaurants that offer spectacular waterfront views, the Club looks forward to familiarizing them with the Marina-based lifestyle and inspiring them to be active participants in marine pastimes."
DMYC is the perfect addition to the Dubai portfolio of marine related projects. And although at the moment Dubai, like the rest of the world, is taking a beating from the global financial melt-down, this great Emirate shall continue to grow and expand!
This link takes you to the DMYC website:
http://www.dubaimarinayachtclub.com
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