Plans call for the construction in a single, integrated complex of a 25,000-seat multi-purpose stadium, a 10,000-seat indoor stadium that can also be used for concerts, a 25,000-seat cricket stadium and a 10,000 seat-hockey stadium. 'This will be the first time that a complex of such size has been built anywhere in the world,' says GMP partner Hubert Nienhoff.

The three construction contracts expected to be tendered by the end of the first quarter are for the multi-membrane roof structures, the structural works and mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) work. GMP also signed on 13 October an extension to its contract to encompass designs for 10,000 car parking spaces and a retail area over 120,000 square metres. Bids will be separately invited for the contracts to build the retail mall and parking.

The structural subconsultant for the roofing is Stuttgart-based Schlaich, Bergermann & Partner, while Kuk, Kress & Kiefer, also of Germany, has the sub-consultancy for the stadiums' bowl structures. The local Ian Banham is the MEP consultant. Phase 1 is scheduled for completion by 2007.

The second phase of the $2,000 million development will cover 50 million square feet of land in the 2,500 million-square-feet Dubailand site. The project will comprise the construction of an 18-hole golf course. The objective is to complete the project, including housing for 70,000 people, by 2010.

As part of the development, which is being financed entirely by private investors, Manchester United Football Clubhas agreed to set up a soccer school in the city. Ernie Els Designis designing the Victory Heights golf course, tennis and country club development due to be completed in 2007, and The Butch Harmon School of Golfhas agreed to set up a golf academy. The UK's David Lloyd Academieswill run the country club planned for Victory Heights. In September, the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Dubai Sports City signed an agreement to set up a global cricket academy.