Phase one of land reclamation for Al Nujoom Islands complete

The company is about to implement the final touches on the first phase of the project while preparing to begin phase two, which will take approximately two and a half years. The total project is expected to be completed in 2010.
Speaking on the reclamation process, Sheikh Abdullah Fahid Al Shakrah, Chairman of Al Hanoo Holding, said:

"We are using the latest engineering techniques in the reclamation process in order to ensure that soil quality is uncompromised. Reclamation is done using a layer system, where each layer is 20cm thick, and is combined together to reach no more than 95% of dry soil density. The whole process goes through various tests using precise settings and high quality standards. I point to the fact that there's an island being formed in the sea that needs 10 million tons of soil alone. Half of this soil comes from digging works on the project."

"The Company is also in the final stages of steadying the deviation of canal banks to ensure that they stay in place, and will cover these with white beach sand with specific features. The sand will be sorted via a rinsing process which will separate rough grains of sand that is more resistant to drifting, a situation resulting from circulation of water inside the islands canals. This procedure also enhances the aesthetic features of the island banks, providing fantastic views for residents and visitors, and making the project comparable to international high-profile resorts."he said.

The project consists of a total of 10 artificial islands, which are surrounded by 35 km of sea water, with water canals ranging between 100-400 meters wide.