Nestled in the Dubai Bay, The World Islands, a man-made archipelago, opens up a wonderful world with approximately 232 km of coastline and 260 islands, arranged in seven groups, each representing a different continent. This is not only an impressive architectural work but also a symbol of unlimited creativity. The islands in The World are named after famous countries, cities, and regions such as Australia and Buenos Aires, along with special names such as Michael Schumacher Island – a meaningful gift from the ruler of Dubai to the famous sportsman. With a unique combination of sophisticated design and creative ideas, The World Islands promises to bring a travel and discovery experience unlike anywhere else in the world.
Explore The World Islands: Dubai’s Man-Made Wonder
Photo: Nakheel
The World Islands, a man-made wonder just 4 km off the coast of Dubai, is a rapid construction project of around 300 small islands designed in the format of a world map. Creating a job of 321 million cubic metres of sand and 31 million tonnes of rock from the seas around Dubai, the archipelago impresses not only by its size but also by its unique design. Ranging in size from 6 to 9 km and surrounded by an oval-shaped breakwater, each island—named after countries such as the UK, Germany, and Switzerland—ranges from 14,000 to 42,000 m2, spaced about 100 metres apart. Exploring the archipelago will give you a great experience as one of the most impressive man-made wonders in the world.
The World Islands. Photo: Jumana El-Heloueh, Jumana El-Heloueh, Nakheel, International Space Station
The World Islands Project: Difficulties After 10 Years of Construction and Current Status
The World Islands project made a splash when it was launched nearly 10 years ago, but since then, it has faced many fatal obstacles, especially in the wake of the global economic recession. Two years ago, the situation became more serious when Penguine Marine, the well-regarded service company, warned that the islands were being collected into the shallow sea. Although Nakheel Properties Group, the project’s main consultant, denied these reports, the fact is undeniable: The islands are still in great difficulty. According to a January 2012 report, although nearly 70% of the islands have been sold, the majority of the project is still behind schedule and lacks the necessary infrastructure. Currently, only two of the 300 islands have been built, with Lebanon Island being the only one to be commercially developed. Owned by Abu Dhabi businessman Ravi Raman, Lebanon Island is planned to be used for corporate and community events, marking a small but significant step in the development of the Islands to reverse this.
The World Islands under construction. Photo: Jumana El-Heloueh, Jumana El-Heloueh, Nakheel, International Space Station
New Development Projects in The World Islands: Exciting Construction Plans from Dubai to Kuwait
The World Islands continues to attract attention with ambitious new development plans. In May 2023, Kleindienst Properties from Dubai announced the construction of the “Centre of Europe” on six islands in the archipelago, promising to create an impressive new destination. At the same time, Nakheel Group completed the “Coral Island” resort, creating a piece of North America on the World archipelago with more than 20 islands. Another investment group from Kuwait has also made its mark by buying 14 islands, building resorts modeled on Australia and New Zealand. Offshore, islands such as Finland, Ireland, Britain and Moscow have been acquired by other companies, which are expected to produce luxury villas, stylish wineries and themed resorts. These projects not only enrich the adventurous look of the Islands but also open up many new opportunities for tourism and investment in the region.
The most exciting development of The World Islands, however, is undoubtedly the Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort, opening in February 2022 and located on the South American side of the archipelago. The resort’s 70 accommodations include suites, beach villas and pool villas, all with ample outdoor space in the form of private balconies, patios or terraces. Amenities abound, including a Thai-inspired spa, an outdoor cinema and a floating lounge. Entertainment options are also plentiful, with a variety of restaurants and bars spread throughout the resort. And, as the only open resort on the entire archipelago, Anantara feels uniquely private and secluded, with views of the main city of Dubai.
Hotel Côte D’Azur Monaco on The Heart of Europe island. Photo: @hotelnewsme
Explore Anantara Resorts On The World Islands
Lebanon Island. Photo: @Luxhabitat
Anantara is the first resort on The World Islands, offering a luxurious stay experience with a sense of seclusion and stunning views of Dubai. The first hotel on Lebanon Island, The Island, offers spa services, swimming pools, a private beach, and fine dining. Guests can take a day trip to Lebanon Island, enjoy beachside dining, enjoy water sports such as parasailing and jet skiing, or rent the island for private events. Day trips are available from 10am to 6pm, allowing you to explore the beauty of this unique man-made archipelago.
Beach on Lebanon Island. Dubai Palm Island
Anantara resort. Photo: @booking.com
The World Islands, despite its challenges and delays over the past decade, remain an irresistible attraction. With new developments such as the “Centre of Europe” and the presence of Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort, the archipelago is gradually reviving and expanding, offering unique opportunities for visitors and investors. From exquisitely designed islands such as Lebanon Island to luxury resorts and promising new projects, The World continues to be a symbol of creativity and ambition. The ever-evolving nature of this archipelago will surely continue to attract attention and provide wonderful experiences in the future.
