Skift Take
The project's success will likely hinge on whether the developers lean more towards family fun or instead take a more reverent and calm approach to the subject. Dubai could certainly use a quiet garden more than another crazy building or ride.
Dubai has added a new item to its top ambitions such as building the world’s largest Ferris wheel and bidding for an Angry Birds theme park — a site honoring the Quran.
The estimated $7.3 million project will include a garden with plants mentioned in the Islamic holy book and an air-conditioned tunnel depicting events from the Quran.
Dubai media quoted the city’s director of projects, Mohammed Noor Mashroom, as saying Thursday the park should be ready in September 2014.
It’s a departure from Dubai’s emphasis on Western-style tourism, which draws millions of visitors from around the Muslim world but has its detractors.
This week, a Saudi cleric issued a religious edict saying it was a “sin” for Saudi women to visit Dubai, but later retracted the opinion after outcry.
Copyright (2013) Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
The Daily Newsletter
Our daily coverage of the global travel industry. Written by editors and analysts from across Skift’s brands.
Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch
Tags: dubai, parks, religion, theme parks