Construction work is now underway on one of the first projects at Nakheel’s prestigious Madinat Al Arab district at Waterfront, said a company official.

Plus Properties, the Dubai-based regional real estate company, has begun work on two of its residential beachfront developments, Pixel Tower and Wave Residence.

“Across the heart of Waterfront, including Madinat Al Arab, Badrah and Veneto, construction and infrastructure development is progressing well, with the first residents at Waterfront set to take occupancy within the next year,” said Marwan Al Qamzi, executive managing director, Nakheel Southern Projects, a portfolio which includes Waterfront.

Construction work at Madinat Al Arab marks the latest progression at Waterfront, with villas at Veneto and the neighboring Badrah district set to be handed over in 2010.

“The fact that our projects continue unhindered despite testing economic times is both a reflection of Plus Properties’ strong fundamentals and a reiteration of our faith in the future of the UAE property market,” added Georges Chehwane, chief, Plus Properties.

Plus Properties’ Pixel Tower comprises 18 floors with a variety of spacious and luxurious apartments, private villas and duplex penthouses.

Wave Residence-1, located on the beach, takes its name from its unique shape and has been designed to offer tenants the elegance, comfort and ambience worthy of a 7-star beachfront residence. The project will have nine floors and will feature studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments as well as exclusive garden apartments with private pools or outdoor Jacuzzis.

Both developments embrace sustainable design guidelines, are energy-efficient and eco-friendly, and aim for LEED Gold Certification.

Waterfront is being designed as an exemplar sustainable city founded on resource efficiency, social equity, and economic prosperity.

Minimising ecological impact is considered in every decision of the city's design, construction and operation. Energy and water conservation are achieved through integration of utilities in dedicated utility centres, where process streams are interlinked and waste is transformed into energy to power the city. Simulation is used in building design to ensure tough energy efficiency targets are achieved.

Madinat Al Arab is positioned as the commercial heart of waterfront, which, upon completion, will comprise canals and artificial islands, and consists of a series of districts with mixed use including commercial, residential, resort, and amenity areas.-TradeArabia News Service