Real Madrid Could Turn to Abu Dhabi for Resort Construction

A Real Madrid-branded resort that was originally set to be built in Ras al-Khaimah (RAK) may be built in Abu Dhabi according to a senior executive at the master developer.

The $1bn, allergist 50-hectare project was to be built on the man-made Marjan Island in RAK, 105km north of Dubai.

However, no work has begun since Real Madrid President Florentino Perez and French football legend Zinedine Zidane attended a project launch in March 2012 (pictured).

A Madrid spokesman has now said in a report from Reuters that media coverage in Spain saying the project was scrapped is wide of the mark and instead said there was a possibility it could be built in Abu Dhabi.

The original plans for the resort included a 450-room hotel, a marina and yacht club and a Real Madrid museum.

An amusement park and 10,000-capactiy stadium were also mentioned in the first plans.

The complex was originally set to be opened in January 2015.