A Whole New World

Who wouldn’t like to own the tropical island of Ukraine, Norway, or Newfoundland? What? It doesn’t take a geography major to know that these places aren’t islands. But now they are. Sound too good to be true? For most, it is. But for millionaires and large company investors, it will soon be a reality. The crown Prince of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Makotum, is selling 300 manmade islands, laid out in the shape of planet Earth, located off the coast of Dubai.Although prices of these islands are not officially available at “The World”‘s website, www.theworld.ae, The Emirates Network estimates that these islands will sell for at least US $6.8 million each. The project is expected to finish construction by the end of this year, and cost a total of an estimated US $1.8 billion. Talk about a marketing ploy! Having their own island means people can get away from the pressures of the real world in a place that was seemingly designed just for them. While neighboring islands are in sight, the blue waters and hot climate make the view tolerable. Not to mention, the sight will probably include a five star hotel, amusement park, or private spa. According to TEN (http://guide.theemiratesnetwork.com), “each island will range from 250,000 to 900,000 square feet in size, with 50 to 100 metres of water between each island.” Celebrities are loving this. Johnny Depp and Brad Pitt already own islands in the Caribbean. And now, there is no need for other celebrities to wonder ‘where have all the islands gone?’ Even after all 300 islands of The World are sold; technology allows more to be built. According to the Khaleej Times, an Arabic newspaper, Dubai itself is an extremely wealthy country. In the September 3rd issue, it states that inflation and rising gas prices mean that Dubai is no longer a country for the poor, or even middle class. Many families are being forced to take bank loans out for simple living expenses, or are being forced onto the streets, or even out of the country. Dubai is already a highly popular travel destination, and “The World” is sure to put even more pressure on the struggling people who live there. What does major construction like this do to the ocean and other parts of the real world? It’s too soon for scientists to be sure. There is some speculation that these islands cause major pollution and increased water levels, which is already a problem thanks to global warming and the melting of the polar icecaps. Will people ever know? For most, however, the aftermath isn’t as important as the money these islands will rake in, or the grand display of modern technology they represent. If humanity can build islands for pure luxury, will people ever have to worry about overpopulation? Plus, if they can buy the Island of Texas, who cares about these things?