Palm Jebel Ali

"Palm Jebel Ali is an ambitious artificial archipelago located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, designed to surpass the size of Palm Jumeirah by 50%. The project, originally launched in October 2002, aimed to be completed by mid-2008 but has faced numerous delays, primarily due to the global financial crisis. Work on the project was halted after the financial meltdown, and although several aspects were initially completed, including the breakwater by December 2006, further construction was postponed indefinitely. At its planned completion, Palm Jebel Ali was to feature a mix of luxury homes, entertainment areas, and resort-style amenities. The development was projected to include six marinas, a water theme park, a 'Sea Village,' homes built on stilts above water, and boardwalks encircling the palm fronds, inscribed with a poetic message by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The project also included plans for several theme parks, including SeaWorld, Aquatica, and Busch Gardens, which were initially scheduled for opening by 2021. However, the project faced significant setbacks, including falling property prices and a dispute with investors over the delay. In 2014, concerns from property owners led to a formal complaint to the ruler of Dubai, and by 2015, Nakheel, the project's developer, assured investors of its long-term commitment but faced mounting pressure. By 2018, Nakheel indicated there were no immediate plans to revive the project, but in 2021, reports emerged suggesting that villas might be constructed on the island, sparking hopes of revitalization. In 2022, legal actions and judgments led to the cancellation of many villa contracts, leaving many investors dissatisfied as they were refunded only their original investments without interest or compensation. However, in 2023, Dubai’s ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum confirmed the relaunch of Palm Jebel Ali, with plans to expand the project significantly. The renewed vision includes the construction of 1,700 villas, 6,000 apartments, and the development of over 80 hotels, with a third of public facilities powered by renewable energy. Nakheel’s plans also involve significant coastline development and a vision to house 35,000 families. The project’s relaunch aims to transform Palm Jebel Ali into one of the largest and most sustainable developments in the region."