The Snowdome
The Snowdome is a giant indoor ski resort currently under construction at Dubailand. Developers 32Group hope that it will be a major attraction for both international visitors and locals who traditionally travel overseas in the hot summer months.
The centrepiece of the resort will be a giant dome, measuring 75 m tall and with a 220 m diameter. It will be the largest free-standing dome structure the world. Inside will be a huge revolving ski slope going into and around an artificial mountain range, a snow park, toboggan run, ice rink and many other features.
The complex will also include a luxury hotel shaped like an iceberg and several residence towers. These will shield the building from the sun and help lower the temperature inside.
Construction began in February 2006 and is expected to be complete by the end of 2008.