The World Islands, Dubai: Not Under Construction, But Stalled

Correction: "The World" archipelago off Dubai's coast is not currently being constructed. The project — 300 artificial islands shaped like a world map — was largely completed in 2008 by Nakheel Properties, using 321 million m³ of sand and 386 million tonnes of rock.

What Happened?

• 2003–2008: Dredging and island creation. Sales launched; islands "sold" to developers/investors.
• 2008 Global Financial Crisis: Credit froze, buyers defaulted, Nakheel restructured $26B debt. Development halted.
• 2008–Present: Most islands sit bare, eroding sandbanks. Only a handful developed:

1. Lebanon Island: Private beach club/restaurant (only commercially operating "country").
2. Greenland (by Josef Kleindienst): Part of "Heart of Europe" project — partial development (floating seahorse villas, climate-controlled streets).
3. A few private residences on other islands.

Current Status (2024)

• Nakheel revived "Heart of Europe" marketing; some infrastructure (breakwaters, utilities) progressing slowly.
• Most islands remain undeveloped, uninhabited, and inaccessible to public.
• Erosion and sinking concerns persist (studies show subsidence).
• No timeline for full build-out.

The World remains a monument to pre-2008 ambition — a map of the world where most countries are just sand waiting for a future that hasn't arrived.