Rakeen, a leading property developer in the region, plans to commence the Phase 2 of the infrastructure work on Al Marjan Island, a man-made island in Ras Al Khaimah, in August.

A contract for the work has been awarded to Rizzani.

Rakeen said Phase 2 infrastructural work, which will be completed in 18 months, will cover Island 3 and Island 4 of Al Marjan and will cost Dh365 million ($100 million) .

The infrastructure work will cover facilities for electricity, water, drainage, telecommunications, soft and hard landscaping, channel crossings, street lighting and fire fighting installations.

Phase One of the infrastructure work, which covers the Peninsula, Island 1 and Island 2, was started in July 2008 and is expected to be completed in June 2010 at a cost of Dh366 million.

Dr Fawzi Shadid, infrastructure manager, Rakeen, said: "It is our top priority to fast-track the completion of infrastructure work as various projects that are being built on Al Marjan are dependant on the infrastructure facilities. With Phase One of the infrastructure work progressing well on schedule, we are now fully prepared to commence work on the second phase after we identified the contractor for the job. We have thoroughly reviewed all aspects of the infrastructure work to ensure that all elements comply with our strict quality standards, particularly with regards to sustainability and minimal environmental impact. Rakeen has addressed all relevant construction issues to ensure that Al Marjan Island will be a true lifestyle haven for citizens and residents of Ras Al Khaimah."

Al Marjan Island is a pioneering project that effectively extends the emirate's coastline by an additional 21 km.

Reaching some 4.5 km into the sea, Al Marjan Island will feature a range of residential developments, hotels, resorts, recreational facilities and commercial and retail amenities. – TradeArabia News Service