A multi-billion pound man-made island resort, designed to resemble a huge palm tree, is being constructed off the coast of Dubai.

The island, which will be encircled by an 11km protective breakwater, is expected to increase Dubai's shoreline by more than 60km. It will include cinemas, restaurants, golf courses, shopping malls and more than 1,000 private villas, themed hotels and resorts.

There will also be a marine theme park, featuring lagoons and aquariums, plus dolphins and killer whales. The island will be home to two marinas for 350 yachts.

The Palm will be linked to the Dubai mainland by a causeway, which will appear as the palm's trunk from the sky. Each frond will then branch out into the sea, forming secluded peninsulas. Visitors will be moved around the 17 fronds via a monorail.

This landmark will become one of the modern wonders of the world, it will encourage tourism and we hope it will promote Dubai worldwide and forge a bright future for the 21st century, commented a spokeswoman for the project.

The project, which was conceived by Dubai's Crown Prince, is being created by Dubai Palm Developers and funded by the Government of Dubai. It will require 80m cubic metres of rock and sand from around the region.

A second palm island is also planned, with work expected to start later this year. The first island is expected to be completed and habitable by early 2006.