Dubai to Build $5 Billion Lunar Resort, Bringing the Moon to Earth
A luxury resort replicating the moon’s surface is planned for construction in Dubai, offering guests an otherworldly experience without the need for space travel. The ambitious project, estimated to cost $5 billion, is slated to open to visitors in late 2028 or early 2029.
Dubai is rapidly re-establishing itself as a global hub for innovation and tourism, overcoming challenges from the 2009 financial crisis. Once marked by abandoned mega-projects like the Palm Jebel Ali and the Pearl building, the city now boasts the world’s tallest skyscraper and is embarking on a new wave of spectacular constructions designed to attract visitors and diversify its economy.
A Lunar Replica Takes Shape
The concept for this unique destination comes from Canadian architecture firm Moon World Resorts Inc., specializing in unconventional building designs. The company proposes constructing a massive spherical structure, 284 meters in diameter, that will serve as a fully-functional “lunar resort.” According to a company release, the goal is to create an experience that allows people to enjoy the moon’s landscape and atmosphere right here on Earth.
The resort will be situated atop a skyscraper – the specific structure remains undefined – and is envisioned as a five-star luxury hotel. Plans include 20 floors and 4,000 luxurious suites. But the experience extends beyond accommodation. Guests will be able to explore a simulated “lunar colony” within the sphere, experiencing the sensation of walking on the moon’s surface.
Entertainment and Infrastructure
The resort will also feature a stadium capable of hosting 10,000 attendees, offering a unique venue for large-scale events. The supporting structure, described as cylindrical and pedestal-like, will be illuminated to create a glowing “moon” visible at night. The project was unveiled in early May at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai.
Dubai’s infrastructure is also undergoing significant upgrades. The reactivation of the Palm Jebel Ali project, leveraging its prime location and proximity to Dubai International Airport, is underway. Additionally, a new hotel is planned in the north of the city with a $4.3 million investment.
A Resurgent Dubai
The development of this lunar resort reflects Dubai’s commitment to ambitious projects and its vision for the future of tourism. “This is a testament to Dubai’s ability to turn ambitious dreams into reality,” one analyst noted. The city’s resurgence after the 2009 financial crisis demonstrates its resilience and its capacity for large-scale development.
In conclusion, the prospect of walking on the moon is no longer confined to the realm of astronauts. Soon, visitors to Dubai will have the opportunity to experience the lunar landscape firsthand, spending the night in one of 4,000 luxury suites within this extraordinary structure.
