International City, as its name suggests, is a true melting pot of the diverse nationalities and cultures that lend Dubai its modern, cosmopolitan air. Built to provide over 60,000 people with an affordable living experience, International City is divided into nine distinct residential districts, with low-rise blocks offering studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments. The architectural styles of Russia, Italy, Spain, England, France, Morocco, Persia, Greece and China are all represented, neatly weaving numerous elements of different cultures into a single society.
The fabric of International City is further enhanced by the range of business activities, retail opportunities and tourist attractions that complement the residential offering. Stretching over an enormous 800-hectare plot, this development has generated considerable interest from many investors including retail giants, multinational companies and real estate developers. The neighbouring DragonMart Complex is considered the largest trading hub for Sino products outside mainland China. Another neighbouring development will be the Dubai Design Centre, which aims to become a one-stop destination for everything in the world of design and interiors. Al Warsan Lake offers unprecedented opportunities for wildlife observation and the meticulously recreated Forbidden City will ensure all the mystery and wonder of this ancient imperial palace is on tap to mesmerise us today.
Central District
Spread over 21 hectares, this district serves as the nerve centre of the project, with state of the art infrastructure and services for commercial activity. The Central District comprises of 34 plots, where investors can develop their own projects in line with International City themes and aesthetics. The Central District will consist mainly of 10-storey towers with retail outlets on the ground floor and basement parking for 130 vehicles.
Forbidden City
Another jewel in International City’s crown is the 240,000 square metre plot reserved to house a replica of the 6,000 year old, world-renowned Forbidden City. The Chinese imperial palace during the mid-Ming and the Qing Dynasties, the original magnificent palace, Gu Gong, is the world’s largest palace complex, with 9,999 buildings surrounded by a six-metre deep moat and a 10 metre high wall, covering 74 hectares in the middle of Beijing.
Although still in the planning stages, Nakheel’s stunning development will include a five-star hotel and host a variety of entertainment facilities, retail and food outlets, public squares and authentic Chinese-themed shows and displays.
Al Warsan Lake
A real first for Dubai, the 35-hectare Al Warsan Lake area is now home to an extraordinary 186 species of the most rare and exotic birds found in the Arabian Peninsula, as well as many mammals, fish, reptiles and plants. While the main priority is to preserve the lake and turn it into a fresh water body to provide nesting grounds to the avian population, plans for the next 18 months include the building of a visitor centre and several hides, strategically positioned around the lake, island, mudland and reedbed.
With AED 100 million of investment earmarked for this project, International City’s evolving wildlife sanctuary could well spearhead a drive to protect and enhance other wetlands across the UAE. Nakheel is currently drawing up detailed plans for this delicate eco-system, with the intention of gaining recognition from the internationally-acclaimed Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
Persia
International City's 'Persia' stands in the heart of the residential district. With two, three and four storey buildings decorated with traditional Islamic domes and wide-spaced arches and windows, these beach and blue coloured facades lend the neighbourhood a most distinctive character.
Greece
International City's 'Greece' lies at the edge of the residential district. It features three and four storey buildings that adhere to the Greek architectural ideals of order and harmony. This neighbourhood features tiled-roofs, balconies, symmetrically placed windows and white-painted walls.
Spain
International City's 'Spain' features three and four storey buildings boasting the traditional stucco exterior finish, with Mediterranean oranges/peaches contrasting with brightly tiled, low-pitched roofs. Arched windows and raised entryways call to mind traditional elements of Spanish architecture, while authentic-looking balconies bring a sense of the outdoors into some of these flats. Arched doorways, windows, porches and entries round off the Spanish look.
Morocco
International City's 'Morocco' features three and four storey residential buildings decorated with vibrant green tiles, natural terracottas, stucco walls and wide arch windows. The simplicity of the architecture conjures up images of life in the desert, with airy spaces and sand coloured walls evoking an old world charm.
England
International City's 'England' harks back to traditional London life. Two, three and four storey buildings reflecting 18th and 19th Century Georgian and Revivalist styles are topped by red gabled roofs and brick chimneys. Shop fronts on the ground floor add to the sense of old English community spirit.
France
International City's 'France' echoes the chic city buildings of yesteryear. Two, three and four storey residential blocks characterised by long French windows, red and grey bricks and pilasters or half-columns evoke a real sense of fashionable Paris. Resembling the architectural importance of southern France, the latest packages offered include traditional yellow buildings to complement the surrounding areas.
Italy
International City's 'Italy' features two, three and four storey residential blocks which adhere to the Italian passion for style. Terracotta roofs evoke a rustic Tuscan charm, while the facades are simple and pleasing in their fluidity.
Russia
International City's 'Russia' features two, three and four storey residential buildings characterised by cool whites and greys that make for a refreshing change from the heat of the desert.
China
International City's 'China' lies at one end of the residential district, near the DragonMart Complex. The simple lines of these two, three and four storey buildings reflect a sense of harmony and balance. Traditional Chinese motifs, balconies, red tile overhangs and pagodas dominate the facades while the undulating style of the roofs suggest a sense of the dragon.
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