AL HABTOOR Group has announced plans to build a $1.33 billion luxurious hotels & entertainment complex in Dubai 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.
Khalaf Al Habtoor, the group’s chairman, said that the Habtoor Palace complex will begin construction in June and is slated to be completed in 48 months time.
Khalaf Al Habtoor, commented on the demolishing of the Metropolitan Hotel: “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. An investment of this magnitude will encourage other like-minded businessmen to regain their faith and will definitely send a very strong message to the national and the international communities that will help stimulate foreign direct investments from institutions and individuals alike.”
The development would comprise of two tall classically elegant towers rising from an imposing grand five storey podium. Besides the hotels, the new project will include a five-star serenity spa, multiple themed restaurants, 50,000 sq ft state of the art banqueting and meeting facilities, an international designer brands shopping arcade and a unique and new theatre which has the potential to become a stunning and prime destination point for visitors to Dubai. 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 over 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 also grace the project which will be for the services of guests as well as local sports enthusiasts providing courts equipped according to the highest international standards.
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. At approximately 400,000 sq ft in area this garden, whose fountain; exotic flowering shrubs and trees; and gazebos, are presented to Sheikh Zayed Road will irrefutably enhance the reputation of Dubai as one of the most beautifully landscaped cities in the Middle East.