It could pave the way future cities are built. The idea of a floating city in the Maldives was first introduced in 2009 but that dream is expected to be finally realized in the coming years. The goal is to invest about $1 billion and finish the project by 2027. It will include several thousand buildings (residential housing units, hotels, shops and restaurants) and a lagoon with a marina among other things.
The city will have its own schools, hospitals and other infrastructure. Water canals will be the main infrastructure for logistics and gateways and the white sand roads between the buildings will be restricted to walking, cycling and using electric, noise-free scooters. Below the surface, natural habitats will be created to stimulate coral growth. Further, the entire city will be powered by renewable energy sources which is in line with Maldives’ net zero emissions by 2030.
Maldives Floating City will look like a colorful maze but it is meant to resemble a coral. Houses will be around 1,000 sq ft in size and based on initial estimates, sell for $250,000. Good news for all foreigners looking to buy: foreign buyers of a house in the floating city can apply for a residence permit in Maldives.
More than 80% of the Maldives are less than 1m above the sea level so the country is among the most susceptible to the rising sea levels around the world. This project may truly pave the way to a sustainable future – not only for the Maldives but also for countries and islands facing similar issues.
We will certainly follow this unique project in the future but we have no doubt why it wouldn’t be successful. As Paul HTM van de Camp, CEO of Dutch Docklands says: “This will be an amazing place where locals and foreigners can buy their dream property at affordable prices.”
Images courtesy of Maldives Floating City
