The Palm project will celebrate the completion of its first structure in less than one month with the final touches now being made to its sales office.

Located on the oceanfront - across from Dubai Media City - the sales office is set to house The Palm's management, administration, engineering, sales and marketing teams and will strategically mark the entrance to The Palm, Jumeirah - the first of the two Palm islands expected to be operational by late 2005.

"This building is the prelude to the vast construction that The Palm will eventually deliver to Dubai and features the 'Arab-Eclectic' style that is planned to be a signature architectural style for The Palm," said Saif Sultan Al Shamsi, managing director, commercial for The Palm. "The site will also feature lush gardens, fountains, lagoons and extensive parking" he continued.

The style of the building blends authentic Arabic design with the sleekest modern elements to deliver a refreshing experience to its staff and visitors alike. Viewing decks will overlook the ocean, enabling visitors to take in the ongoing construction of the island as it develops. The main reception will be furnished with touch-screen systems, allowing visitors to view their property online, to research pertinent details and book appointments at the touch of a button.

Access to the building will be via one of three entrances, with one VIP entrance with a well-appointed helicopter landing; a private entrance for more conservative visitors; and the main entrance. An amphitheatre has been incorporated within the building and will seat up to 26 people for customer presentations and press events.

HHCP Design International - the architect for the project has captured traditional Arabic and modern elements in its design. The traditional Arabic style can be seen through the incorporation of the elaborate domes, decorative pillars and intricate carved walls and floors featuring mosaics, gold etchings and Arabian designs. The modern elements include the avant-garde offices made entirely of glass and located in an atrium area covered by modern tension fabric construction but reminiscent of traditional tent forms.

"Overall, the new Palm Sales Centre is set to amaze each and every visitor and continue to inspire excitement in the extraordinary Palm project that is steadily unveiling itself in Dubai," said Al Shamsi.

The Palm involves the creation of the world's largest two man-made islands known as The Palm, Jumeirah and The Palm, Jebel Ali.