2. Palm Island Jumeirah
This is one of the most ambitious construction projects to be dreamed up – and dredged up – in Dubai. It’s billed as the eighth wonder of the world and has become a symbol of the city. This artificial archipelago in the shape of a palm tree has materialized offshore from over 7 million tons of rock and 100 million cubic meters of sand. The trunk, 16 fronds and surrounding crescent reef design maximizes the beachfront real estate offerings for its luxury hotels, shopping plazas, restaurants and residences. Frankly, Palm Jumeirah is most impressive when seen from a birds eye view. It doesn’t look all that when you’re on it, but it’s a landmark “wow” you just can’t miss in Dubai. Take the monorail up the trunk to the Atlantis Hotel for some memorable fun at their waterpark. Two more reclaimed palm islands are in the works, as is a series of islands in the shape of a world map.
