Dubai to build world's longest indoor ski slope in 1.2 kms

The world's largest indoor ski slope, spread over 1.2 kms, will be built in Dubai, home to several sprawling shopping malls and skyscrapers.
As part of the Meydan One, a tourism development project, the 1.2 km-long ice rink will be set up along with the world's largest fountain adjacent to a shopping mall, residential tower and five-star hotel.
The project, covering 3.67 million square metres, was launched yesterday by Ruler of Dubai Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
"The first phase of the project is scheduled to be completed before 2020", the developer was quoted as saying by Gulf News, adding that it is located in the area extending between the Meydan Hotel and Al Khail Road.

The value of the project, however, was also not given.
"This development is a forward thinking, interactive enterprise geared towards the Dubai of tomorrow. The encouragement and support we have received in the past from our trusted partners will now help the Meydan One development come to life. The first phase will be completed as Dubai prepares to host the World Expo 2020," Saeed Humaid Al Tayer, Meydan's Chairman said.

Covering 25,000 square metres, the Meydan One Mall will feature a retractable roof, measuring 150 x 80 metres, which will open in the winter months, over 300 restaurants, cafes and kiosks, and luxury retailers.

Dubai already has an artificial indoor ski slope in Mall of the Emirates shopping centre, opened in November 2005.
Dubai hopes to double tourist numbers to an annual 20 million by 2020.
Meydan One is expected to accommodate more than 78,300 residents.