The project, which is currently only in the research and development stage, will consist of a series of interconnected islands that will host humans in luxury eco-lodges, surrounded by millions of mangrove trees.

'The 'floating living lab', dubbed Dubai Reefs also aims to create an artificial reef ecosystem below the islands, spanning approximately 200 square kilometres, that will provide a home for one billion corals, as well as turtles, fish and other marine life along the Dubai coastline. 

Regeneration

Dubai Reefs project aims to regenerate the coastal ecosystem of Dubai and mitigate the effects of decades of oil-digging, dredging and reclamation projects which have greatly impacted the coastline.

The artificial reef will provide invaluable ecological and economic richness, nurturing marine species and providing a natural defence against coastal erosion and protection from storms.

"Beyond creating a unique resilient destination for ecotourism and marine research, Dubai Reefs aims to become a blueprint for ocean living, whilst mitigating the impacts of climate change.' said Baharash Bagherian, CEO of URB, the Dubai-based real estate firm behind the concept.

Renewable energy

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Dubai Reefs will use ocean wave energy capture as a continuous renewable and sustainable source of energy.  

The floating structures will be integrated with underwater tidal turbines which can harness the motion of waves and use it to create electricity. It produces no greenhouse gases or other waste, making it an attractive renewable energy source as ocean currents move 24/7 around the world.