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Dh200m Zabeel Park is nearing completion

DUBAI — Works on the Dh200 million Zabeel Park project, the first technology-theme park in the region, which is also attracting private investment of several hundred million dirhams, is nearing completion. The major recreational facility is expected to be ready next month.

By Zaigham Ali Mirza

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Published: Mon 11 Apr 2005, 10:38 AM

Last updated: Mon 12 Jun 2023, 4:23 PM

Most of the project’s major landmarks including an amphitheatre, boating lake and lakeside buildings and other structures have already been completed. A major attraction for visitors and an addition to the city’s skyline is the pedestrian bridge over Shaikh Zayed Road that connects two of the three sections of the Zabeel Park.

The elegant span and pylon of the first cable-stayed bridge in the UAE is also virtually complete. With its 52-metre-high central pylon, 16 wire ropes and an elegant, slender bridge girder with free spans of more than 65 metres, allow to cross the 10 lanes and slip roads of Shaikh Zayed Road and the Zabeel Palace Underpass at the required slanting angle needed to connect Park A and B of the project. The bridge was built by Dubai Municipality’s Roads Department under a design-and-build contract, at a total cost of Dh6.5 million. A sophisticated lighting system is to further enhance the beautiful lines of the new bridge.


The park, which will feature a space maze and a 3-dimensional cinema among other things, is built on 47 hectares with financing from the public and private sectors. The civic body spent about Dh200 million to develop the infrastructure of the park, and it has so far attracted over Dh300 million in investment from the private sector to develop high-tech facilities for visitors. The investment from the private sector is likely to exceed Dh500 million as a number of investments are in the process of being developed. So far investment from the private sector has been very encouraging, with the municipality awarding several projects such as the Dh100 million Star Gate, an 'edutainment' facility with a many educational and fun activities for both youngsters and adults, and the gymnasium at the Sports Club House, which was undertaken by another private company at a total cost of Dh25 million.

Commenting on the project recently, Rashad Bukhash, Director of General Projects Department at the civic body, said: "It is to be the premier regional park in Dubai and will provide a themed recreation and leisure facility of international standard."

The park will be different from other similar recreational facilities because of the recurring technology theme, he said, adding that it will provide a relaxing environment to unwind and offer recreational facilities as one would expect from any park, but will also provide interesting, educational attractions. One of the highlights of the project is a space maze modelled after the planetary system and other technology-based attractions. Featuring a contemporary and futuristic style, that will give it an individual and vibrant character, the park will have an infrastructure that is functional and visually appealing. Other features of the project include a pedal-boat lake and lakeside restaurant; a sports centre and exhibition gallery; a mini-golf course, a skateboard park and a jogging track; barbecue facilities; shaded seating and play areas and refreshment kiosks.

Alternative energy zone will offer a series of interactive exhibits demonstrating the different forms of alternative energy from water, sun and wind. Many of the exhibits will allow park visitors to compete against one another on teams to demonstrate their effectiveness at harnessing different forms of alternative energy.


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