WORLD’S FIRST TEMPERATURE CONTROLLED CITY
16 Jul 2014
Dubai’s ‘Mall of the World’ will not only be the world’s largest shopping centre but it is also set to be the world’s first temperature controlled city.
A fully enclosed, climate-controlled city is a concept which has captured the imagination of popular science fiction writers and directors for centuries. And Dubai plans to turn this concept into a reality with its ‘Mall of the World’ project.
Constructed under a glass dome and envisioned as an integrated pedestrian city, at the heart of the proposal is a 750,000m² shopping centre and promenade which brings together a variety of retail and leisure activities. The project also features a cultural celebration district and a dedicated theatre quarter comprising a host of venues and entertainment options.
Another component sees the completion of a 300,000km² wellness district dedicated to rejuvenation services. It will offer a holistic experience to medical tourists and their families, ensuring access to quality healthcare, specialised surgical procedures and cosmetic treatments.
All facilities will be covered during the stifling summer months – when temperatures can exceed 50 degrees Celsius – with a retractable glass roof allowing fresh air to circulate in the cooler winter season.
Commenting on the new project, Sheikh Mohammed explained, “The growth in family and retail tourism underpins the need to enhance Dubai’s tourism infrastructure as soon as possible. This project complements our plans to transform Dubai into a cultural, touristic and economic hub for the two billion people living in the region around us; and we are determined to achieve our vision”.
The project will follow green and environmentally friendly construction guidelines using state-of-the-art technology to reduce energy consumption and ensuring high levels of environmental sustainability and operational efficiency.
Once completed, the development will attract around 180 million visitors each year, forming a year-round destination for guests of all ages.