Dubai Properties has officially launched Marasi Marina, the first fully-operational jetty at the Dubai Water Canal, making it the only marina in the heart of the city.

The 157-berth, members-only marina spans an area of 40,000 sq m and is the latest addition to Dubai Properties’ Marasi Business Bay portfolio.

The launch marks the completion of Phase One of the master developer’s ambitious mixed-use development that is set to become the city’s most sought-after waterfront destination.

Opening in time for the 2018 yachting season, Marasi Marina comprises eight interconnected piers that can accommodate vessels up to 35 m long.

Built in a record 90 days, the first-class facility features architecturally-themed concrete pontoons that are held in place by the Seaflex anchoring system, an elastic and environment-friendly mooring solution that keeps the docks floating yet stable and secure even when exposed to extreme weather conditions.

Other unique details of the project include the innovative incorporation of palm trees within the floating pontoons, complete with a fully-functional irrigation system, said the developer.

A short distance away from the world’s tallest tower, the all-new city marina is located at Marasi Drive.

With Phase One complete, Dubai Properties continues its ambitious expansion which will see the addition of residential complexes including the 49-storey Riverside tower, public parks and four more marinas along the canal.

On the marina launch, Raed Al Nuaimi, the newly-appointed Group CEO of Dubai Properties, said: “Marasi Marina offers a picturesque backdrop to the much-anticipated waterfront living community that is taking shape in the middle of Business Bay. We take pride in delivering Phase One of our vision of transforming the 64-million-sq-ft area into a vibrant lifestyle destination.”