Dubai announces that it will be the site of a new $2.2-billion Universal theme park, while neighboring emirate Abu Dhabi announces a comprehensive planning effort called Plan Abu Dhabi 2030.
The Los Angeles Times offers a fascinating introduction to Dubai -- a "a Ventura County-size expanse of desert on the southern rim of the Persian Gulf... Increasingly, Dubai is not just next to the gulf - it's extending into it, with hundreds of man-made islands being built for high-end hotels, spas and luxury villas."
"Dubai was one of seven emirates - the others being Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm al-Qaiwain - to come together to form the country of the United Arab Emirates... Some estimate that one-fifth of the world's construction cranes are working in Dubai."
Then, from the Gulf News Report:
Following the success of emirate Dubai to the north, Abu Dhabi announced a major development initiative -- Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 -- "that is expected to transform the UAE's capital into a vibrant global metropolis in less than a quarter of a century... Projects already announced and those under development in Abu Dhabi are worth Dh1.47 trillion ($400 billion), according to estimates."
"While the specific outcomes of this initiative are scheduled for release in the middle if this year, Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 underscores a holistic approach to urban planning policy in the capital city, and a commitment that all individual developments will contribute to a shared vision for the city that respects and embraces its surrounding rare desert and sea ecology."
Read the full story: Dubai building big name for itself
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