Al Zorah, the Dh220 billion ($60 billion) development in Ajman, has commenced preliminary work on its roads following the appointment of major consultants for the project.

Dar Al-Handasah was appointed as the Infrastructure Design Consultant for Al Zorah, COWI from Denmark as the marine design consultant and Ove Arup as the sustainability consultant.

Following the Al Zorah’s master plan produced and managed by Solidere International and the concept design stage completed by Dar Al-Handasah and COWI, the two consultants are currently progressing to the preliminary and detailed design stage, said a statement.

Pre-qualification documents have also been sent to both marine and Infrastructure works contractors, said the statement.

Located along Ajman’s beachfront and creek, Al Zorah will be a self-contained city with varied residences, offices, retail outlets, schools, hospitals and leisure facilities including marinas and a number of five-star resort hotels.

The project is being developed by Al Zorah Development Company, a joint venture between the Government of Ajman and Solidere International Limited, a leader in urban planning and the development of large scale projects in the Middle East and Mediterranean region.

“The project is an initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Noaimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, who has the vision to transform Ajman’s coastline into a world class residential, business and leisure community,” said Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, chairman of the Al Zorah Development Company. “The appointed consultants have been selected for their proven track record and rich portfolio including several landmark projects in both local and international markets,” he added.

Imad Dana, CEO of the Al Zorah Development Company, said: “Preliminary works for the Al Zorah road network have now commenced. Ajman Investment, Marketing & Services (AIMS) has been contracted to carry out the bulk earthworks on the project.  The initial bulk earthworks include the raising of the five major access roads of the project as well as the canal area to a level of approximately +4.00 m thereby enabling the future Infrastructure works to commence for the construction of the deep services and road construction. A total of 13 km of major road network is required.”

The road network will allow access throughout the site for construction traffic in addition to achieving the required design levels for the final road construction. “With works currently underway, we will be able to complete the various construction phases of the project as per the contract schedule and meet the deadline set for hand over,” he added.

Situated just 25 minutes from Dubai International Airport, the Al Zorah development will reflect the emirate’s natural beauty, both by maximizing green space within the community and by adapting itself to the surrounding mangrove plantations and other natural elements. On its coast will be a crescent shaped bay, part of 16 km of beach front including 3 km of original beach, picturesque creeks and interconnected islands.  The backdrop will be a thriving city of 200,000 residents and workers, said the statement. –TradeArabia News Service