Emaar Properties has awarded the first release of tenders totalling Dh1 billion ($272.5 million) for the Arabian Ranches development in Dubai.
Emaar now says it will soon float a fresh round of tenders for the next phase of the project.
Issam Galadari, executive director, Projects, Emaar Properties, said: "This premium development is helping us create opportunities for other industries which provide valuable support to our project. We have enlisted the services of many local and international companies to provide the backbone to the entire project and we look forward to announcing fresh tenders for the next release very soon."
More than 14 local and international construction companies and consultancies have been awarded contracts for various components of the Arabian Ranches project. These include A1 Futtaim Tarmac for enabling and infrastructure works and potable water supply; Wade Adams for TSE irrigation water supply; Orient Irrigation for the desert golf course and landscaping to the approach road, DCE for construction of the Arabian Ranches sales centre and Al Basti and Muktah Contracting Company for the construction of villas in the first phase, and SSP as its consultant.
A number of international equestrian consultants are also currently being considered for the design and supervision of the equestrian facility to complement the golfing facilities, which are being overseen by Canin Associates, Parsons International, IBF/Nicklaus and Harradine Golf.
The resort will include two world-class golf courses, equestrian and polo grounds, a network of man-made lakes and health spas covering an area of 3,000 acres.
Arabian Ranches will comprise luxurious one and two-storey single-family homes from 2,500 to 4,000 sq ft, incorporating 'smart technology'.
Sales of the villas started recently. Emaar also announced a zero per cent down payment booking option for the Arabian Ranches project.
Construction has already started at the unique desert location at the intersection of three key arterial roads to Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Dubai. The project will be constructed in several phases, with the first phase of luxurious one and two-storey detached villas expected to be ready by 2004.