A Dubai company is planning to build a tropical rainforest in the city.
Scheduled to open in the next six months, The Green Planet – in the City Walk retail area in Jumeirah – will include a bio-dome to recreate a tropical forest in an enclosed ecosystem.
Meraas, the Dubai holding company behind the project, said it "recreates the enchanting world of a tropical forest with its rich biodiversity of over 3,000 plants and animals".
"It is built around the desire to contribute to environmental consciousness in the region," the company said.
"As part of this priority, The Green Planet will aim to not only impress visitors with a novel green oasis in the city, but at the same time ensure that they enjoy an up-close educational and fun experience."
The company behind The Green Planet said it has been designed with sustainability in mind, having received the Leed (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification and is fully compliant with the Dubai Municipality green building regulations and specifications.
"The Green Planet is set to inspire people of all ages and nationalities to learn about and care more for every single plant and animal that inhabits the Earth."
Also included under the roof of the bio-dome will be exhibitions and displays encouraging visitors to learn about tropical ecosystems.
"The highly personalised encounters with plants and animals will motivate children to learn fascinating facts, while at the same time instilling respect for the intricacy and fragility of the environment," the company said.
Meraas is also behind Dubai’s Boxpark, Splash Pad and Reel Cinemas.

Source : The National