Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, on Wednesday approved a new master plan for Palm Jebel Ali – a luxury lifestyle mega project that will occupy an area twice the size of Palm Jumeirah.

The long-planned tourist attraction – spearheaded by leading developer Nakheel – will include 80 hotels and resorts, green spaces and other leisure and retail amenities spanning 13.4 square kilometres.

The project will add about 110km of coastline to Dubai, offering beachside living to 35,000 families.

The ambitious scheme aims to become an “aspirational residential destination in the city”, Dubai Media Office reported.

It is part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, unveiled by Sheikh Mohammed last year to meet the needs of Dubai's growing population and allow the emirate to achieve the lofty goals of its development plan.

“We have vast ambitions for the future and we are confident that we can transform our grand vision for development into reality,” said Sheikh Mohammed.

“Palm Jebel Ali will further strengthen our urban infrastructure and consolidate the city’s emergence as one of the world’s leading metropolises.

“This new groundbreaking project reflects our strategic development plan centred on raising the quality of life and happiness of residents.”

Sheikh Mohammed said the sprawling project was in line with Dubai's goals to be a world-class destination.

“Dubai has entered a new phase of development driven by innovation and creativity,” he said.

“By taking advantage of the opportunities arising from the evolving global environment, Dubai’s competitiveness and reputation as a thriving global business and tourism hub continue are set to grow further. We remain committed to shaping a brighter future both for our people and the world.

“The urban expansion that Palm Jebel Ali represents is a testament to Dubai’s economic dynamism. It also signifies Dubai’s exceptional outlook as a hub for talent and investment. The project will contribute to Dubai’s sustainable development by opening new avenues for growth in several sectors.”

Developer Nakheel announced last year it was revisiting its plans for the island, which had been on hold for several years.

The launch of the master plan comes only days after Sheikh Mohammed unveiled Dubai's vision to develop 54km of beaches around Palm Jebel Ali, The Palm Jumeirah and Al Mamzar, and a new beach at Jebel Ali.

The new projects include the development of enclosed beach areas, walkways, cafes and dining areas.

They are part of a plan to lengthen the beaches in the emirate by 400 per cent by 2040 and increase the services provided on public beaches by 300 per cent by 2025.

Sheikh Mohammed said the expansion was part of the emirate's development plan launched in March 2021.

'New milestone' in Dubai's development

The raft of new developments are being driven forward as Dubai enjoys surging sales in the luxury property market.

The Ruler of Dubai was joined during the approval of the master plan by Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance and First Deputy Ruler of Dubai; Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai; and Mohammed Al Shaibani, director general of The Ruler’s Court of Dubai, Managing Director of the Investment Corporation of Dubai and Chairman of Nakheel.

“We are honoured to embark on a path-breaking journey with the new master plan of Palm Jebel Ali, which is unprecedented in magnitude and scale,” said Mr Al Shaibani.

“The megaproject is inspired by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and will mark a new milestone in the continued growth of the city.

“Palm Jebel Ali will capture the spirit, energy and life of Dubai as a thriving, prosperous and sustainable waterfront community and a world class lifestyle destination and secure Dubai’s reputation globally as an innovator in waterfront developments, besides creating exceptional value for investors.”

Palm Jebel Ali will feature mixed-use walkable neighbourhoods and incorporate smart city technologies and sustainability practices which will position it as a global benchmark for waterfront living, Dubai Media Office stated.

Up to 30 per cent of Palm Jebel Ali’s energy requirements will be obtained from renewable sources, supporting the country's green agenda.