Gulf Construction Online - Mega complex for Metropolitan site

UAE Focus

The new complex will have one of the region’s biggest hotels.

Mega complex for Metropolitan site

01 February 2012

THE Al Habtoor Group has announced the launch of one of the region’s biggest and most luxurious hotels and entertainment developments to be built on a prime location on Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai.

The new complex will be built on the one million-sq-ft property opposite Al Safa Park that currently houses one of Dubai’s first hotels. The 34-year-old Metropolitan Hotel, which now stands on this choice location, will be demolished to make way for the new undertaking.

Commenting on the demolishing of the Metropolitan Hotel, Khalaf Al Habtoor, chairman of Al Habtoor Group, said: “Parting with the Metropolitan Hotel, our first hospitality venture is not easy as it is filled with great memories, but I always believe in looking forward. The tourism industry in the UAE and Dubai in particular, is constantly and steadily growing, and we have to be prepared to cater for the growing need of visitors and residents alike.”

The three luxurious hotels complex will include over 1,600 rooms and suites and will cost Dh4.875 billion ($1.33 billion). The development will comprise two tall elegant towers rising from an imposing grand five-storey podium.

Not just hotels, but a ‘lifestyle’ experience, the new project will include a five-star serenity spa, multiple themed restaurants, 50,000 sq ft of state-of-the-art banqueting and meeting facilities, an international designer brands shopping arcade and a unique and new theatre.

This extensive and resplendent theatre will introduce to Dubai some of the world’s best theatrical performances from places such as Broadway and Las Vegas. With more than 1,000 seats, this artistic arena will provide the highest degree of technical development and multi-media effects, including a hydraulic central stage, water features and movable floors.
Each offering a unique culinary experience, the themed restaurants, some Michelin Star holders, will spread over two podium levels. A tennis and sports academy will cater to guests as well as local sports enthusiasts.

With a magnificent view of the Safa Park, the Burj Khalifa Business Bay canal and The Meydan, the project will also overlook its own exceptional landscaped garden occupying an area of approximately 400,000 sq ft.

The construction of the project is to commence in the first quarter of 2012, with expected completion within 48 months. John R Harris & Partners is the concept design architects and Khatib & Alami Consolidated Engineering Company is the lead design consultants on the development.