Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
The emirate of Dubai in the UAE is known for its world’s firsts, and one of its stunning creations is the Palm Jumeirah, which is nestled in the emerald waters of the Arabian Gulf. This artificial archipelago, which is like a stylized palm tree when looked at from above, was the first offshore development of its kind, making it billed as the Eighth Wonder of the World.
It was launched in 2001, and in the later part of 2006, its first residences comprising 4,000 luxury apartments and villas were handed over during a phased period. Since then, the retail, leisure and tourism elements of the islands have been developed, making them a world-renowned and spectacular tourist and residential destination.
This archipelago is the first man-made structure on Earth that can be identified by the human eye from outer space. It was designed as a means to create tourism components for the rapidly growing market in Dubai, featuring more than 60 kilometers of new shoreline that was created from more than 90 million cubic meters of sand, rock, and earth that are sourced from local resources.
Actually, it is one of 3 planned islands that are called the Palm Islands, comprising of Palm Jumeirah, Palm Deira and Palm Jebel Ali, which would have increased Dubai’s shoreline by a total of 520 kilometers, with the Palm Jumeirah being the smallest among the three.
The master plan of this structure basically consists of 3 man-made earth forms, which are: the Trunk, which is its hub that stretches 2 kilometers of land having a variety of retail shops, restaurants, cafés, entertainment facilities, a village center, 5-star hotels, beaches, marinas and luxury shoreline apartments; the Crown, which is connected to the Trunk with a 300-meter bridge and contains signature villas, townhomes and garden homes coming in a variety of styles, designs and sizes; and the Crescent, which is a barrier reef that is connected to the Crown by a subsea tunnel and comprises a number of uniquely themed boutique hotels that offer world-class restaurants.
The most famous landmark in Palm Jumeirah would be the colossal Atlantis Resort, which has a private beach, waterpark and the Dolphin Bay. Here, you will be able to enjoy the view from the sea on a yacht or the Palm Monorail, which runs to the resort on the island’s outer crescent, or have an unforgettable experience of interacting with dolphins up close and personal.
Another big draw on this island is the Aquaventure, which is one of the largest water parks in the Middle East, spanning more than 42 acres of rivers, rapids, slides and play areas for children. It is home to the Leap of Faith, which will provide you an ultimate adrenaline rush with a 27.5 meter high slide into a shark-filled lagoon.
Aside from these, there is also the Wild Wadi Waterpark, which is one of the most advanced water theme parks in the world, offering hours of fun to families and thrill seekers. This park has more than swimming pools, sliding slopes and restaurants.