International Desk: The construction of a luxury development project has started on one of the largest natural islands in the wealthy Gulf nation of the United Arab Emirates. It is going to be the country's second smallest and least populated project - to be called Umm Al Quwain. The budget of this project is 5 billion dollars, equal to 55 thousand crores in Bangladeshi currency. Sobha Sinia Island, the first phase of the mega project, will welcome more than 25,000 people to live in 8,000 apartments (units) after completion.

Francis Alfred, Managing Director of Sobha Realty, said in an interview with Khaleej Times that Umm Al Quwain is a "unique and iconic project" on the coast. The company will set new benchmarks in the construction of luxury and high quality residential and commercial establishments while keeping nature safe and intact.

Sinia Island is a gem of immense potential, rich in natural heritage. We want to showcase this to the world through Sobha Sinia, a joint venture with Umm Al Quwain Properties. This development project will bring about a positive transformation of the city of Umm Al Quwain. This will improve the quality of life of the residents,' said Alfred.

The island's connecting bridge is nearing completion, and excavation work has already begun, crucial for the construction of Sobha Sini's boat anchor villas and marinas. Onsite infrastructure work will begin this quarter and construction is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2025.

Last year Sobha Realty completed sales transactions in Dubai worth $4.24 billion and this year we expect a gross output of over $5 billion. In total, the developer currently has around 40 million square feet of projects under construction, which equates to around 22,000 units (apartments).