Dubai’s $5B Moon Project Lands Global Partner to Bring Bision to Life

The Moon Dubai project may have moved a step closer to reality following a major appointment by Moon World Resorts Inc. (MWR).

Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB) has been appointed as the programme manager and cost consultant for Moon Smart City developments worldwide.

Moon Dubai was first unveiled in September 2022.

The ambitious $5 billion development has faced several challenges since its announcement. However, it is important to note that Moon Dubai remains a concept at this stage and has not yet progressed to a confirmed construction project or broken ground.

The appointment of RLB has nevertheless renewed optimism around the project, with the consultancy expected to provide Moon World Resorts with the expertise, oversight and guidance needed to advance its developments globally.

Its portfolio includes high-profile developments such as the Sydney Opera House, HSBC headquarters in Hong Kong and the London Olympic Games.

RLB will oversee Moon World Resorts’ pre-development programmes through the full delivery lifecycle of each Smart City Masterplan, with a focus on maintaining budget discipline and providing greater certainty around project schedules.

What is the latest on the Moon Dubai project?

The project has undergone several changes since it was first announced, with its proposed location being one of the biggest areas of uncertainty.

Since 2022, the development has gone through multiple changes and proposed locations.

Dubai Pearl was initially identified as the site for Moon Dubai. However, reports earlier this summer suggested that Moon World Resorts founders Michael R. Henderson and Sandra G. Matthews believe Abu Dhabi could offer more suitable land given the project’s significant size and scale.

What do we know about Moon Dubai?

The proposed Moon Dubai development currently has no confirmed location in either Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

Construction has yet to begin, and there is currently no confirmed government development agreement for the project.

The project has a detailed concept and design, while an international design and consultancy team has also been appointed. The developer is actively exploring potential locations across the UAE.

The project is estimated to cost around $5 billion. Previous timelines indicated that, if construction begins next year, the development could be completed by 2032.

If the project ultimately receives the necessary approvals and moves into construction, it could become one of the world’s largest tourist attractions.

Moon World Resorts has said the development could attract around 10 million visitors annually and generate billions of dollars for the UAE economy.