Real Madrid has unveiled ambitious plans to develop a US$1 billion, club-themed resort in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), reports Sport Business.
The Spanish Liga giant presented its plans on Thursday with ‘Real Madrid Resort Island’ set to be supported by the government of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.
The resort is set to feature a theme park, a groundbreaking 10,000-seat stadium with one of its sides open to the sea, a Real Madrid museum, numerous sports facilities and a marina, along with residential and luxury hotel developments.
Real stated that the artificial island site is of strategic importance as it is equidistant from Europe and the Far East.
"When the Real Madrid Resort Island opens its doors, visitors will be part of the legend of the best club in football history, which seeks to be eternal and universal," said Real Madrid president Florentino Perez. "We connect our name and a unique potential in the world at a strategic meeting point... which is less than a four-hour flight for 2,000 million people."
The club expects Real Madrid Resort Island to attract around one million visitors per year when it opens in January 2015. Perez added: "It is a strategic step and increases the strength of our institution in the Middle East and Asia, a key region that has demonstrated its passion for this club. Our collaboration is becoming more solid and we are proud of it. Real Madrid and the Government of Ras Al Khaimah want to convey the passion and what Real Madrid means to everyone."