The ambitious project, known as the ‘World Islands project,’ stretches five miles in length. Each island varies in size from 250,000 to 900,000 square feet and is constructed with vast amounts of sand extracted from the Persian Gulf and millions of tonnes of rock for stabilization.
In total, there are around 300 islands, each reportedly representing a different country from around the globe.
Famed personalities such as Richard Branson and the late Karl Lagerfeld have visited these exclusive islands.
Additionally, former F1 driver Michael Schumacher received one of these islands as a gift in recognition of his illustrious career.
In 2008, the economy of the United Arab Emirates faced significant challenges, impacting the real estate sector. As a result, approximately $300 billion (£237bn) worth of projects were scaled back or canceled.
The World Islands project experienced delays, and many of the islands remain unfinished.
However, one island, Lebanon Island, is complete and open to the public.
So, what lies ahead?
The next phase of development, the ‘Heart of Europe project,’ envisions each island featuring luxurious hotels, private mansions, and floating villas.
This phase aims to attract tourists to Dubai by offering them the chance to experience various European destinations as they travel between islands.
The Heart of Europe website describes the project as merging “the best of European culture, architecture, and hospitality with the luxury and innovation of the Emirates and the white, sandy beaches of tropical islands. The Heart of Europe offers novel experiences, from underwater living to the climate-controlled Raining Street.”
The project is expected to be completed in 2026, with an estimated cost of $14 billion (£11bn).
If you have substantial funds at your disposal, there are only a limited number of islands left for purchase, so you might want to act quickly before they are all taken.