Dubai launches $545 million canal project

Dubai launches $545 million canal project
Dubai leader Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum has officially launched the Dubai Canal project which is due to be completed in 2017.

 Dubai will spend AED 2 billion ($545 million) on building the canal through its downtown area.

 The canal will create new waterfront land that can be used to build hotels, marinas and other tourist facilities, the government said.

 The first phase of the project involves building a 16-lane bridge on Sheikh Zayed Road.

 The project includes shopping malls, four hotels and 450 restaurants and will attract 20 million visitors.

Dubai' Road and Transport Authority say they are working on a plan to ensure there is no traffic disruptions during the construction period.

The three-kilometre long project will further connect the creek from Business Bay area to Jumeirah beach.