Skift Take

It wouldn’t be the first time that one of Dubai’s mega-projects fell through if the Discus Hotel is never built, but Maldives’ confirmation of a similar project lends some legitimacy to the concept.

Drydocks World and Maritime World, the shipbuilding arm of Dubai World, has revealed work will begin ‘very shortly’ on the underwater hotel it is developing with Deep Ocean Technology.

The Water Discus Underwater Hotel will comprise a number of discs under water at depths ranging from 10 to 30 metres.

The hotel’s design will allow it to be expanded and customised to suit the surroundings and requirements of clients.

Each disc will be an independent structure of approximately 1000 sq m and will form a single component of a larger complex. The modules can be used to build hotels in various sizes based on requirements by investors and clients.

Drydock World & Maritime World Chairman Khamis Juma Buamin said: “We at DDWMW are delighted to be involved in this project to construct the first of its kind and very unique Water Discus Hotel. It is a matter of deep pride and honour for us that once again, we have been recognised as a facility which is able to construct and fabricate a leading design and a world’s first concept.”

“We look forward to the launch of construction very shortly and as always we are confident of providing a high-quality structure in a cost effective and timely basis,” he added.

DWMW did not provide details on construction timelines and development costs.

According to Deep Ocean Technology CEO Bogdan Gutkowski, there will other underwater hotels “situated in all parts of the world.”

It was announced in May 2013 that the Ministry of Tourism in Maldives had approved plans for a similar hotel to be built on the island of Kuredhivaru as well.

© 2013 ITP Business Publishing Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Provided by Syndigate.info an Albawaba.com company.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: design, dubai

Photo credit: Water Discus Hotels are divided into above and below water sections to provide a unique beachside stay. Deep Ocean Technology / Deep Ocean Technology

Up Next

Loading next stories