AusLeisure

Merlin Entertainments has announced that it plans to open a new Legoland theme park, its second in Asia, in Dubai in 2016.

In a prospectus released in advance of its London Stock Market debut, the UK-based company said it planned to open Legoland Dubai in 2016 under a deal in which it would be funded by third parties, which includes Dubai-based developer Meraas Holding.

The prospectus read "the group has also entered into an agreement with, amongst others, Meraas Malls and Hospitality LLC to develop and operate Legoland Dubai under this operating model, with launch planned for 2016.

"The initial development and construction of Legoland Dubai is being funded by third parties. Merlin has the right to manage and operate the park for an initial term of 25 years, once open."

The prospectus added that the contract was signed in 2012.

In a statement, issued in June, it was said Meraas has launched Motion Gate, featuring a movie-based theme park, a Bollywood themed park and a Legoland theme park that will be located within its master-development in the Dubai district of Jebel Ali.

In 2007, Tatweer, a member of Dubai Holding, and Universal Studios had announced plans for Dh8-billion theme park project in Dubailand. The first phase was expected to be completed by 2010.

In 2008, Merlin Entertainments Group announced plans to create Dh912 million Legoland Dubailand. The three million square-foot project was due for completion at the end of 2011.

Merlin operates attractions in 22 countries, including brands such as Madame Tussauds, the London Eye, Legoland Parks, Legoland Discovery Centres and Sea Life.

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