Why is Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah a Wonder of Modern Engineering? 

A renowned destination in the Middle East, Dubai boasts natural endowments such as the vast and vibrant desert, a rich cultural heritage and superior infrastructure that entices visitors. However, the futuristic vision of the nation has resulted in other awe-inspiring architectural and engineering marvels like the Palm Jumeirah that make the elite and the influencers worldwide select this city as their preferred holiday getaway. Discover why it is considered a wonder of modern engineering.

Background

Known as a cosmopolitan and visionary state of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Dubai remains ahead of the other Emirates in terms of innovation, opulence, and the aura of luxuriousness that pervades the city. The Palm Jumeirah is one such insightful innovation offering its guests and residents an upscale and exclusive holiday or living experience. 

Under the guidance of the Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed, work commenced in June 2001. A massive 560 hectares of land reclamation from the Arabian Gulf was completed and construction and finishing touches took nearly six years making this man-made island one of the largest such islands in the world. The Palm Jumeirah has transformed Dubai into a luxury resort and a sought-after tourist hub, showcasing the Crown Prince's vision.

The Iconic Palm Jumeirah

Due to its distinctive shape, The Palm Jumeirah is even recognised from space. Exploring this luxurious island is among some of the best things to see and do in Dubai.  If you are keen, you can easily get an aerial view of it from The Palm, an observation deck on the 52nd floor of the Palm Tower on the island.

The island's Palm Tree formation is primarily due to cultural reasons. In the Arabian Peninsula, the palm tree provides sustenance and symbolises life, and the date palm is the national tree of the UAE.

The Palm Jumeirah consists of a Trunk and 17 Fronds. Its breakwater is in a crescent shape, (Palm Crescent) that seamlessly blends creative aesthetics with engineering ingenuity.

The Trunk – This 300 m long bridge connects the island to the mainland through which visitors arrive to explore and experience the exclusive residential and retail areas and many amusement arenas.

The Fronds – These are home to upscale villas and mansions sought after by the elite.

The Palm Crescent – This protective barrier surrounds the entire palm and is 11 km in length safeguarding the island from the open sea. A boardwalk and road run along the Crescent with many hotels and resorts such as the likes of Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort located on the Crescent.

Features of Modern Engineering

The island was created by Nakheel Properties, a developer sponsored by the central authority of Dubai while the design and architecture were by Helman Hurley Charvat Peacock, USA. The Palm Jumeirah is 5 km in diameter, and it adds 78 km of shoreline to Dubai, thus extending the offering of sunny beaches to its visitors. The geometric design of the Palm has also maximised the beachfront extent on this island.

This massive reclamation of land required large amounts of sand and rock, that had to be dredged from the Arabian Gulf with extreme care. The team of engineers used the latest GPS technology to maintain its distinct form as it was sprayed into place.  Another concern was ensuring the island was safe from sturdy winds and erosion as the work was ongoing. The Palm Crescent, which has been made with natural rocks, served as the barrier opposing the onslaught of sea waves. 

Dining and Entertainment Hub

This island has become a living and livable city-within-a-city which makes exploring it even more interesting for visitors. As it evolves with new and exciting projects being developed, use your time in Dubai to enjoy its present features to the fullest.

Dining – With loads of restaurants available from local Kahwa joints to exclusive fine dining, food lovers will not be disappointed here with local and international cuisine available.

Entertainment – Apart from the beaches and water sports that can be enjoyed, other possibilities include Aquaventure Water Park for a day of fun and frolic and Lost Chambers Aquarium to learn more about marine life in the Arabian Gulf.