Real Madrid and the Government of Ras al-Khaimah have announced plans to establish a major new US$1bn (£632m, EUR756m) visitor attraction in the United Arab Emirates.

Built under the Spanish football club's brand, the Real Madrid Resort Island complex and theme park is to boast the first sports stadium open to the sea and a Real Madrid museum.

Luxury hotels, sporting facilities, a "sport port" and a residential scheme also form part of the project, which will become the first to be built under the Real Madrid trademark.

The 50-hectare (124-acre) development will combine tourism and sports and is to launch in 2015. It will also enhance the club's presence in the Middle Eastern and Asian regions.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said: "When the Real Madrid Resort Island opens its gates, visitors will become part of the legend of this club, which strives to be eternal and universal.

"The world of sports and Real Madrid again prove to have no boundaries and that football is a fantastic tool with which to make different people and cultures come together.

"Real Madrid Resort Island will be a sports tourist complex of the highest level, covering 50 hectares in which tourism and sport will seduce millions of people in search of a quality leisurely activities."

Details: www.realmadrid.com

Image (c) Real Madrid

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