By Blogjunkie

Scheduled for completion in 2011, the Shams Abu Dhabi project on Al Reem Island just might be the most ambitious architectural undertaking ever attempted. With a price tag of nearly $7 Billion, this resort, residential and recreational facility is expected to be the new playground for the world’s most affluent individuals. It will include over one hundred skyscrapers and a million square metre park, not to mention miles of white sandy beaches, breathtaking sunrises and awe-inspiring sunsets.

First Phase

Shams Gate, also known as the Gate District, is the first phase of the Shams Abu Dhabi project and is expected to be completed on schedule. The two main towers, Sky Tower and Sun Tower, are nearly ready for residents to start moving in. Amenities include a proposed shopping mall, beach and park access, and available public transportation into the city’s business district.

The Gate Towers, of which there are four altogether, are rising steadily, and The Arc, which can be seen in the original project plans, is above ground and being worked on. There is also a private gym, spa, tennis courts, and childcare facilities. The retail section is close to 70% pre-leased, and will be completed at the same time as the Sun and Sky towers. It will open to the public in the fourth quarter of 2010 once the towers have a significant number of residents.

Apartments For Sale

You can own an apartment in the new Shams Abu Dhabi project for a mere AED 6,500 per month, a sum that equals just over $1,750 USD or £1,200 GBP, not bad for a mortgage payment. Even better, to make sure they fill the space that is being created, the banks are offering a 4.99% interest rate. You can get in cheap and lock in a low monthly payment right now, something that has been difficult to do in other parts of the world during the recent economic recession.

The plan that Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council came up with in 2000 to improve their city is called Abu Dhabi 2030. It’s an ambitious thirty year endeavour which will conclude with this seaside city possessing an enormous amount of prime beachfront property. Some of it is complete now; more is on its way soon. Once a small village populated by camel herders and pearl divers, Abu Dhabi is now one of the most stunning cities on earth, well worth a visit, and not a bad place to live either.