PALM JABEL ALI
by DARA HOMES PROPERTIES on November 23, 2023
Introduction
Dubai, the epitome of opulence and architectural innovation, is home to several iconic projects that redefine the boundaries of human ingenuity. One such marvel is the Palm Jebel Ali, an artificial archipelago that stands as a testament to Dubai’s vision for grandeur and luxury.
Overview
Situated at 25°00′N 54°59′E, the Palm Jebel Ali is an extension of Dubai’s ambitious Palm Islands project, surpassing its predecessor, Palm Jumeirah, in both scale and design. Conceived in 2001, the island was envisioned to feature a palm tree 50% larger than Palm Jumeirah, with a crescent shape that provides ample space for boardwalks, hotels, and residential areas.
Construction Journey
The project’s initiation coincided with the Palm Jumeirah development, sharing a common goal — to enhance Dubai’s coastline to accommodate the burgeoning tourist influx. However, the financial crisis of 2007-2008 halted progress, leaving the Palm Jebel Ali in a state of suspended animation since 2018.
Environmental Impact
Dubai’s ambitious construction projects have not been without controversy, and the Palm Jebel Ali is no exception. Environmental concerns have been raised, citing alterations to wildlife, coastal erosion, and changes in wave patterns as significant repercussions. Greenpeace has criticized the lack of sustainability, highlighting damage to marine habitats, coral reefs, and seagrass fields.
Unique Construction Features
The Palm Jebel Ali stands out not only for its grandeur but also for its unique construction approach. Unlike traditional methods, the island was built entirely from sand and rocks, with no concrete or steel used, aligning with the visionary order of the Ruler of Dubai.
Resources Involved
Enormous quantities of resources were employed in the construction:
- 5.5 million cubic meters of rock from 16 quarries
- 94 million cubic meters of sand from deep sea beds
- 700 tons of limestone
Addressing Risks
The construction faced numerous challenges, from potential sinking to the impact of waves and storms. To mitigate these risks, extensive breakwaters, 3 meters high and 160 km in length, were erected. Regular monitoring, both above and below the surface, ensured the stability of the island and the breakwaters.
Future Sustainability Efforts
Acknowledging the environmental concerns, measures were implemented to restore coastal ecology and prevent erosion. Techniques like rain-bowing and vibro-compaction were employed, and ongoing monitoring ensures the recovery of marine life and the prevention of liquefaction.
