Canadian architectural design and intellectual property (IP) licensor Moon World Resorts (MWR) is planning a $5 billion space tourism experience and destination resort in Dubai.
The spherical resort is designed to be built in 48 months, Moon World Resorts co-founders Sandra G. Matthews and Michael R. Henderson told Arabian Business.
“Moon Dubai will be the largest and most successful modern-day tourism project within the entire MENA region, doubling annual tourism visitations to Dubai based on its global appeal, brand awareness and unique multiple integrated offerings,” said Matthews and Henderson.
Henderson said the project will “significantly impact every aspect of the emirate’s economy including tourism, transportation, commercial and residential real estate, infrastructure, financial services, aviation and space, energy, MICE, agriculture, technology and of course education”.
Moon Dubai will have a lunar surface as part of an Earth-based space tourism experience. It will include a visit to an “authentic working lunar colony”, Henderson told Forbes.
New destination resort in Dubai
“It’s aimed at those who wish to participate in authentic space tourism at an affordable price point,” he added. To get to the lunar surface, guests will ride in a ‘moon shuttle’.
The resort, which will boast a height of 735 feet, will also include a training platform for space agencies and astronauts. There will be residential properties, as well as a spa and wellness area, an events centre, and a nightclub.
“Currently, MWR is planning a 2023 global road-show series showcasing Moon to potential regional licensees,” Henderson said.
Moon World Resorts is expected to licence four destination resorts – in North America, Europe, MENA and Asia.
Commercial spaceflight, or space tourism, is valued at more than $450 billion. Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic are already offering suborbital trips, while SpaceX and Axiom are taking paying customers on orbital journeys.
Images: Moon World Resorts
