The mixed-use Landmark development includes a 150-metre-high, 40-storey tower and two low-rise blocks of 43 metres and 54 metres. The three structures will house a five-star hotel, luxury apartments and an 18,000-square-metre shopping mall. The development's eight basement levels, which will reach 30 metres below ground, will house six underground car park levels as well as a cinema complex and ancillary facilities.

Work on the project cannot start until construction permits have been granted. However, sources on the project say they are hopeful that excavation work on the enabling package will start in June or July. Construction on the main package is expected to start in mid-2005 after further detailed design work. The project is scheduled for completion in 2007.

A local/Kuwaiti development company known as Landmarkis developing the project. The company is 75 per cent owned by Hamad al-Wazzan and Sheikha Souad al-Homaidi, both Kuwaitis. The remaining 25 per cent is held by local investors Ahmed Baadarani and Nassif Karam. The $200 million price tag includes $60 million for the purchase of the land in Riad al-Solh Square, which is currently occupied by a car park.

The project manager is the local Millennium Development. The architect is France's Ateliers Jean Nouvel (AJN). The UK's Arupis responsible for structural work and mechanical and electrical engineering. The local Khatib & Alamiis providing engineering and architectural services on the ground.