Dubai-based developer Rakeen has launched its Dh1.2 billion ($326 million) Bab Al Bahr resort in Ras Al Khaimah.

The first project to be developed by Rakeen on Al Marjan Island, the master developer’s man-made coral-shaped atoll being built to extend 4 km into the Arabian Gulf.
Bab Al Bahr, will on completion in 2009, encompass a four-star deluxe hotel, time-share apartments, freehold residential apartments, a shopping centre and an office tower, offering residents and investors 360 deg sea views and open private beach fronts.
“Rakeen’s fresh approach to development will act as a catalyst for growth and transform Ras Al Khaimah into a modern and flourishing destination that can capitalise on its tourism and commercial potential. Meticulous planning will ensure that Bab Al Bahr will develop into the ultimate resort destination, offering the most selective investor a gateway to island living,” says Dr Khater Massaad, chairman and member of the board, Rakeen.
A total of five residential buildings, incorporating a total of 710 residential freehold apartments, are earmarked for construction, including 110 studio apartments, 300 one-bedroom apartments, 220 two-bedroom apartments and 90 three-bedroom apartments. Residents can enjoy 100 per cent free-hold ownership in addition to a myriad of facilities, such as a private beach, pool bar, gym, themed swimming pools, children’s play areas, parking for 800 cars, 24-hour security and hotel fitness and health club privilege access. Through special arrangements with the adjacent hotel, residents can avail of the resort’s facilities and amenities, and can also take advantage of joining an apartment ‘rental pool’ facility to rent their units.
Bab Al Bahr will also encompass a 290-room four-star deluxe hotel/resort, incorporating 120 time-share apartments, in addition to a 25-storey Bab Al Bahr retail and office tower, the business headquarters of the island, which will conveniently offer retail shopping and office space under a free zone trade licence.
Located 20 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport and 45 minutes from Dubai, Bab Al Bahr will be a self-contained community, presenting residents and visitors with leisure facilities including a nearby golf course, a night club, exotic gardens, beach parks, a la carte dining options and beach activities. The resort will be landscaped to have a tropical look, with coconut trees, flowers, shrubs, stones and waterfalls designed to allow for easy internal and external accessibility flow of residential and visitor traffic.