Women-only island a 'revolutionary' idea

Josef Kleindienst

Following a report in Khaleej Times last month spotlighting a call for a women's only resort or island in Dubai, developer of The World Island's 'Heart of Europe' project says the idea could be revolutionary.
Josef Kleindienst, chief executive of Kleindienst Group - developer of the cluster of six islands nestled amidst the archipelago of Dubai's The World - told Khaleej Times that though 'Heart of Europe' cannot accommodate such a resort, others should seriously consider it.
"Our project wouldn't be able to accommodate a women's only island, as it is aimed at couples, families and children. (However), demand for a women's only island in Dubai is a very interesting concept and is definitely worth exploring."
Last month, several irked residents told Khaleej Times the presence of on-site construction workers and the open visibility of residential balconies along Jumeirah Open Beach compromised their privacy when visiting the popular area. As a result, they called on the city's construction giants to make way for the development of a women's-only resort or island, with one resident saying she was even prepared to pay upwards of Dh500 for access to a secure, private location - a figure bound to heighten the interest of potential developers here. Describing the idea of such a resort or island as "revolutionary", Kleindienst said thorough field research would be the key to success for any developer keen to take on such a forward-thinking project.
"In theory, the idea is revolutionary for Dubai, but careful detailed research would need to be undertaken in order to make such an island a huge success and a unique experience for women of all ages."
For those looking to take the next step in developing the exclusive resort or island, he said research with "different demographics" as well as more detailed focus group studies would help in determining what people need on such an island.
It would also outline what facilities would be desired by these exclusive paying customers, too.
Nakheel's The World archipelago is situated 4km off the Jumeirah coastline in the Arabian Gulf. As at now, only two of the islands have been developed - the Lebanon Island and the Heart of Europe.
With Kleindienst calling the concept of a women's-only resort or island "very interesting", time will tell as to which developer will be brave enough to take the leap.
kelly@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE
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