Artificial Islands Dubai
Dubai is a city that has seen a huge influx in tourism as of late. The streets, hotels and beaches have become increasingly packed, and the city is still bringing in more and more visitors every year. Because of this, the city decided to take on a huge project: the creation of two artificial islands off of the city's shore.

The construction of the islands, which began in 2001, will cost a whopping 1.2 Billion Euros by the time it is completed. 100 million cubic metres of rock and sand has to be dumped into the water to create the new land masses, which are now considered the 'Eighth Wonder of the World.'. These islands are so big that they can be seen by the naked eye from space! The islands will be connected to the shore by bridges, making them very easily accessible.

These two palm-shaped islands, named Jebel Ali and Jumeirah, are due to be finished between 2006 and 2007. Their construction will create 120 km of new beachfront property, which will be prime real estate for developers. In 2003, construction began on malls, theme parks, marinas, apartments, restaurants and spas. The initial plans for these islands are so grand that apparently football star David Beckham has already purchased some property.

The Palm, Jebel Ali is the largest of the two islands, and will be an entertainment destination for adults and children alike. It will include six huge marinas, a water theme park and water homes built on stilts. The Palm, Jumeirah will be a residential area and relaxing retreat more geared towards adults.

As if these islands weren't enough reason to plan a trip to Dubai, the city has also announced plans to build the world's first underwater hotel, situated 20 m below the water, and located 300 m from shore.