Blue Communities launched

Nakheel, one of the world’s largest privately-held property developers, has unveiled its plans for a major sustainability project, Blue Communities, launched under the direction of H.H. Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

The Blue Communities initiative was announced Saturday at an exclusive event hosted by Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman, Nakheel.

As a pioneer in waterfront development, Nakheel is committing Dh200million over three years, plus its expertise and experience, to raise awareness of issues specific to coastal development, engaging thought leaders, NGOs and other stakeholders to take an active role in developing the Blue Communities initiative.

Speaking at the event, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman, Nakheel said, “Blue Communities is a call to action. Almost two thirds of the world’s population live in coastal communities and a large amount of development is taking place in these locations. As such there is a need for significant investment in research, development and positive transformation of these environments. The long term aim is for Blue Communities to provide leadership in the development of sustainable coastal communities. Our investment of 200 million dirhams demonstrates Nakheel’s commitment to this new initiative.”

The investment will fund research and development activity, and promote active engagement with international experts on the issues of sustainable development, construction, management and governance of coastal communities around the world.

“Nakheel is still a young company, formed in 2001, yet in that short time, we have achieved a great deal. We are known worldwide as an innovator, building icons and landmarks for the future. We are a leader in the region and internationally and we have written the rulebook on waterfront development. We now want to take that pioneering approach and apply it to the creation of Blue Communities.”

The launch event, which was attended by 500 leading figures from government, industry and media, was held in a specially constructed dome on the beachfront behind Nakheel’s Sales Centre by The Palm Jumeirah.