The 1,100-berth complex, split over four marinas, is due for completion in 2020

UAE-based property development group Meraas has awarded the 1,100-berth Dubai Harbour Marina design contract to Camper & Nicholsons (C&N) Marinas.

Currently under construction and due for completion by 2020, Dubai Harbour is a multi-million Dirham marina project that will transform the area into a maritime leisure hub and is expected to become a significant feature of the Dubai waterfront.

The 1,100-berth complex will be split over four separate marinas, along with a cruise ship terminal, residential towers and entertainment outlets, making it the largest facility of its kind in the Middle East.

Camper & Nicholsons Marinas had already completed a detailed design review and study for the marina, which included a comprehensive market assessment and international market positioning strategy, culminating in a concept design and feasibility report for all elements of the four marinas in Dubai Harbour, including some of the largest superyacht berths in the world.

During the design period, the large-scale reclamation and construction work on the marina was already well underway, requiring constant and seamless communication with the Meraas team to ensure any design changes could be made simultaneously with the construction team.

“Dubai Harbour will be an iconic and innovative waterfront development, successfully creating a world-class maritime facility with the best superyacht marina and cruise terminal in the region that attracts visitors from all over the world,” says Luc Khaldoun, Senior Director of Marine Projects for Meeras. “Combined with an exhilarating and unique entertainment offer, Dubai Harbour will be the new home of experiences, active marine tourism and living in Dubai.”

According to Khaldoun, Meeras chose to work with Camper & Nicholsons Marinas due to their solid reputation and consistent high-level of detail in marina design and consultancy projects around the world. “As an operator of their own marinas, they really understand the long-term impact of design choices,” he says. “Dubai Harbour is a different concept of marine living in the UAE, and we have incorporated many aspects of these forward-thinking features to help create a unique environment and, in turn, hope to create greater demand for yachts in the area.”

The design also includes the largest superyacht berths in the GCC countries, up to 160m with their requisite power supplies (estimated to be in the region of 1,600 amps). The marina also incorporates three fuel docks, a boatyard and facilities for small-scale refit and maintenance, crew facilities and operations control.