Massive interest in Al Badia homes

Offering Dubai's only rental alternative on a golf course, the first 64 units at the Al Badia Golf Resort Residential Community will be ready for occupancy this summer.

"The response has been fantastic so far," said Phil McArthur, Director, Leasing & Marketing, Dubai Festival City. "This clearly demonstrates that there remains strong demand in Dubai, and particularly in the city environs, for high quality leaseable accommodation.

"Prospective tenants are particularly impressed with the location and peaceful atmosphere of the development - we are in downtown Dubai and yet have created a serene and relaxing living environment."

Of the first 64 units, 11 are three and four bedroom town houses, all with their own private walled gardens, 43 are apartments with two, three or four bedroom alternatives and 10 are terraced homes - a unique concept, constructed above two levels of apartments, to create sweeping views across the spectacular Al Badia Golf Resort.

Keen to take full advantage of the stunning landscape created by the oasis-inspired golf course at Al Badia - which translates into 'Land of the Bedouins' - homes have generous balconies and terraces overlooking the many greens, lakes and streams of the championship standard, 7,320 yard course designed by master golf course architect Robert Trent Jones II.

"Visitors to our show homes have also been impressed with the large, spacious living areas and the use of natural light throughout the homes," explained McArthur.

Attention to detail is a hallmark of the community - every room is fitted with an A/C control, maid's quarters have outside access and interior finishes are high quality and neutral in colour, giving residents the freedom to decorate their homes in any style.

"Environmental sensitivity is another characteristic of the resort," said McArthur. "Central A/C chiller plants are located off site to maintain peace and quiet and paspalam grass, a salt tolerant hybrid which can be irrigated with a mixture of seawater and tertiary water, has been used on the golf course cutting fresh water use by two thirds."

The design of the resort's community centre is currently being finalised. Due to open in Summer 2005, it will include a wide range of sporting and leisure facilities, as well as play areas for children, a kid's pool and a crèche.