Dubai, UAE: Meraas has revealed construction at Bluewaters is over 75% complete, with construction transitioning from structural work to the distinctive façades on the island in preparation for the handover of the Bluewaters residences in Q1, 2018.

The new destination, a press communiqué from the company said, will be home to Ain Dubai, reportedly the tallest and largest observation wheel in the world at more than 210 metres. The communiqué revealed that more than 90% of the buildings at Bluewaters have undergone work on their façades, including all 10 apartment buildings and 17 townhouses. The project, the communique added, will also have over 200 retail and dining outlets, in addition to leisure, entertainment and hospitality components, and a vibrant plaza – all of which are at advanced stages of construction.

Commenting on the development, Brian Schofield, Vice President – Projects at Meraas, said, “The idea behind Bluewaters is to create a family-orientated neighbourhood where homebuyers can put down roots and feel a deep connection to the place they call home, which is why we’re committed to ensuring work on each of the island’s features continues moving forward simultaneously.” He said five main contractors and over 40 consultant firms were engaged to ensure that the company met the highest international standards of quality. He added that at its peak, 16,500 employees and 25 cranes a day have worked on Bluewaters, with 64 million man-hours recorded.

Michelle Saywood, Vice President of Design at Meraas, added: “Meraas is passionate about urban environments like Bluewaters, where people can experience the city. This commitment has evolved, and has seen new urban landscapes emerge that offer unique experiences for residents and visitors in Dubai. The vibrancy that we are injecting into destinations like Bluewaters has also become a benchmark for developments across the city.”