The district, planned on the edge of Burj Lake will include an opera house, modern art museum, galleries, two new hotels and other lifestyle components. The project  aims to further strengthen UAE’s emerging role as the cultural hub of the region. “The design and architectural elements of the project  are now being finalized  and work will commence shortly,” a statement  from government  said.

The district, billed to be the UAE’s newest arts and cultural nerve-center, will attract more high-end cultural tourists to the city. In addition, it will encourage  talented local artists and will facilitate global cultural exchange.

“The cultural accomplishments of a nation define its character and individuality. Having demonstrated our credentials in hosting world-class cultural events, UAE has established itself as a thriving destination for culture and the arts. We will continue to strengthen the infrastructure framework for promoting cultural initiatives, through projects such as the Dubai Modern Art Museum and Opera House District”, Media office quoted Al-Maktoum as saying.

“The focus of Dubai Modern Art Museum and Opera House District is to stimulate the city’s cultural and artistic milieu through an Opera House, modern art museum, galleries and design studios - in short, the entire infrastructure for arts and culture to thrive,” said Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman of Emaar Properties.

To be clearly differentiated from the existing architectural icons in Downtown Dubai, the Dubai Modern Art Museum and Opera House District will be a design masterpiece, integrating various components that assure a contemporary lifestyle choice for visitors. With plazas, high streets, shaded colonnades, courtyards, sikkas, alleyways, waterfront promenades and parks in close proximity, it will be distinguished by its unique mix of components that focus on the cultural and creative side of Dubai.