Dubai is to get a state-of-the-art 2,000 seater music venue inspired by the maritime traditions of Dubai that will host opera, theatre, concerts, art exhibitions, orchestra, film, sports events and seasonal programmes.

The venue will form the centrepiece of the new Opera District in Downtown Dubai, and will stand proud among  luxury hotels, elegantly designed residential and serviced apartments, a retail plaza, waterfront promenades, recreational spaces and parks. It will itself have a sky garden and a number of restaurants built around the main performance area.

According to information released by Emaar on March 19, Dubai Opera is ‘envisaged to be as iconic in appearance as the world-famous Sydney Opera House’, and ‘is styled on the traditional sailing vessels of the Arabian Gulf, the classic wooden dhows that are synonymous with the world-famous Dubai Creek’.

Mohamed Alabbar, chairman of Emaar Properties, said: “The Opera District highlights the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to develop a vibrant cultural community and events destination in the city which will encourage our talented local artists and also promote global cultural exchange.

“Dubai Opera, which is central to the new arts and lifestyle district, will be a spectacular addition to Downtown Dubai, already home to global icons such as Burj Khalifa. The state-of-the-art opera house and the varied lifestyle components of The Opera District will energise Dubai’s events and tourism sectors. With the city establishing its global reputation as an arts hub, the new development will also strengthen the ‘Dubai Art Season,’ which brings together the city’s vibrant arts initiatives.”

The ‘bow’ of the structure will contain Dubai Opera’s main stage, orchestra and seating areas, as well as the proposed . The elongated ‘hull’ area will feature the waiting areas for spectators, taxi-drop off area, and parking amenities.