Dubai Investments Real Estate Company (DIRC) has announced the completion of preparation work including excavation and shoring for the first phase of its Dh3-billion ($816 million) Mirdif Hills mixed-use project coming up in Mirdif, Dubai.

A real estate arm of Dubai Investments, DIRC said the first phase of Mirdif Hills – currently the only freehold in Mirdif – includes 1,054 apartments in its three components, Janayen Avenue, Nasayem Avenue and Al Multaqa Avenue.

The project offers a mix of residential, commercial and retail attractions spread across an area of 3.9 million sq ft. These include studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom units besides duplex apartments; a four-star hotel with 116 rooms, 128 serviced apartments and a 230-bed hospital. The main contractor is Engineering Contracting Company (ECC).

Foundation works for Janayen and Nasayem Avenue are nearly 75 per cent complete and the ground floor slabwork is under way. The mixed-use project is expected to be fully completed by the end of 2018.

One of the unique facets of Mirdif Hills is its Vertical Villas concept, stated the developer. Inspired by French architect Le Corbusier, the Vertical Villas series – being built in the Janayen Avenue, comprises many villas, built in one single building and rising up vertically, giving it a sustainable appearance.