New waterpark and resort to be built within Deira Islands, Dubai.

Real estate developer Nakheel and Spanish holiday firm RIU Hotels and Resorts have agreed to develop an 800 room waterpark and resort within Deira Islands in Dubai.

The $245 million construction project will incorporate four swimming pools, a kids club, live shows and entertainment, alongside various places to eat, in addition to a health and fitness centre.

“Nakheel's 15.3 square kilometre waterfront destination will transform Dubai’s Deira district into a world-class hub for tourism, retail and entertainment,” a spokesperson from Nakheel informed Gulf News.

The build will total 3.4 million square feet, with 10 percent allocated to the waterpark. International Consultants Dar Al Handasah will manage design, engineering and construction supervision.

A construction tender is expected to be released at the end of the year, with completion date expected in 2019.

Dubai has increased their focus to build tourist spots which will attract tourists and young families through the development of the Deira Islands. The development will add an extra 21km to Dubai’s coastline and expand the existing beach area.

Nakheel are also involved in various projects, such as building a shopping mall on the islands and family style accommodation, in addition to building a new city within the islands itself.

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