The foundation stone has been laid at Silicon Park, the first integrated smart city project taking shape at the Dubai Silicon Oasis free zone.
Once complete, the landmark development spanning 150,000 square metres and constructed at a cost of AED1.3 billion ($350 million) will reinforce the green credentials of Dubai and the wider UAE.
The stone was laid by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman of Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA), who also unveiled a commemorative plaque.
Set for completion in the fourth quarter of 2018, Silicon Park will comprise 71,000 sq m of office space, 25,000 sq m of commercial space, 46,000 sq m of residential area and the 115-key business hotel Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis.
It will also feature restaurants, cafés, prayer rooms, a shopping centre and an underground parking space that can accommodate more than 2,500 cars.
Sheikh Ahmed said: “In line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to transform Dubai into the smartest city in the world, we have conceptualized Silicon Park with smart technology at the core of its DNA.”
Dr Mohammed Alzarooni, vice chairman and CEO of DSOA, added: “In line with the Dubai Plan 2021, we have designed Silicon Park to reflect the strategic direction of our government on smart cities that focuses on six pillars: life, society, mobility, economy, governance and environment.”
Silicon Park will feature intelligent solutions from charging docks for smart devices on the streets to smart pop-up furniture and digital play tables, as well as optimally designed bus shelters, piazza shading and other public amenities.
Furthermore, its residential units will boast sophisticated remote-controlled systems that can regulate lighting, air conditioning and electrical appliances in addition to controlling the movement of windows and curtains.
Silicon Park will also include a control centre that collects and analyses data gathered through sensor devices.
Completely free of regular vehicles, Silicon Park will use electricity-powered alternatives as the primary mode of transportation. All residents and visitors owning electric vehicles will be able to access the charging stations set up across the premises. In addition, they will have the option to use smart rechargeable electric bikes as a means of conveyance.
Credit: arabianbusiness.com
