Dubai: Dubai has launched a massive green initiative costing Dh200 billion and covering 880 million square feet to help conserve and protect the environment.

His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, launched the project on Friday.

The Mohammad Bin Rashid Gardens project, comprising four clusters and 73 per cent greenery, will be implemented by Dubai Properties, a member of Dubai Holding.

Shaikh Mohammad viewed a model of the project and watched a presentation of the project’s components during the launch on Friday.

The presentation was attended by Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai; Shaikh Maktoum Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai; Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, and Lieutenant General Mussabah Rashid Al Fattan, Head of Shaikh Mohammad’s office.

Al Gergawi, who is also CEO of Dubai Holding, said the project is in line with Shaikh Mohammad’s concern over the health and welfare of future generations.

“The idea of the project was embodied in Shaikh Mohammad’s decision to establish green buildings that are environment friendly, restrict the usage of power and protect natural resources from being wasted,” he said.

Four sections

Al Gergawi said the project consists of four sections: the House of Wisdom, which will include translation houses, a library, knowledge gardens, international organisations, international universities, history and science colleges, and Shaikh Mohammad’s Mosque.

The second is the House of Humanity which will include the House of Giving, Mohammad Bin Rashid Humanitarian and Charity Establishment, Museum of Light, Human Civilisation Museum and charities.

The House of Nature will be the project’s main cluster, which will include international-themed gardens, environmental labs, hotels, recreational clubs, a huge zoo, flower gardens and alternative medical and herbal clinics.

The House of Commerce will include higher education institutes in banking and finance, insurance companies, large international company’s branches, and Islamic and international banks.