Dubai is to build the world's first underwater ultra-luxury resort hotel at a cost of more than $500 million.

The 107,700 sq m Hydropolis Hotel development will rise out of the sea offshore Jumeirah to set completely new global standards with respect to the quality of experience and living.
It is the brainchild of German investor Joachim Hauser, the project's architect, inventor and designer. Hydropolis Hotel is expected to open its doors to guests in late 2006.
'Hydropolis will impart a unique impression of distinctiveness and exclusivity that will not diminish. It will simultaneously address 'mind, body and soul' in an unparalleled manner,' said Joachim Hauser, who has set up Hydropolis Holding in Dubai.
He said Hydropolis would offer experiences, adventures, and impressions at all levels of human perception. All requirements regarding luxury and service will be fulfilled as a matter of course.
Hydropolis will have three elements: the land station, the connecting tunnel, and the submarine complex.
The land station will be the reception and welcome centre for the guests and will include administrative facilities.
The connecting tunnel is the lifeline and not only provides access, but also enables provisioning of the hotel with all the necessary goods.
The submarine complex is the hotel itself with its wide range of unique additional facilities.