The World Master Plan

Conceived by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Minister of Defense of the UAE, and Nakheel Properties, The World is one of the most innovative land reclamation and development projects ever attempted.

Envisioned as a series of independent islands, approximating the shape of a Mercator projection of the world map, it is surrounded by a series of breakwaters/reefs to provide necessary protection. Bermello Ajamil, a wholly owned subsidiary of Woolpert, was commissioned as the master planner for the entire project, responsible for all planning and developmental guidance.

The plan provides a framework for basic infrastructure and development whose requirements have been determined within a range of upper and lower levels of densities to meet future needs. Transportation to and within The World is based solely on marine infrastructure. All movement relies on ferries, water taxis, and private boats. The master plan included trip demand, travel time calculations, routes, and marine transport operations.