In addition to bringing DreamWorks characters, such as Shrek and the upcoming Kung Fu Panda, to life, the park will include DreamWorks-themed restaurants, hotels and retail stores. "We are extremely proud of our alliance with DreamWorks Animation," says Saeed Al Muntafiq, executive chairman of Tatweer, in a statement. "The partnership demonstrates our dedication to deliver on the tourism objectives of Dubai Strategic Plan 2015."

DreamWorks CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg says "we are thrilled to bring the first DreamWorks Animation dedicated theme park to Dubai through our alliance with Tatweer for Dubailand. This relationship will allow us to create an exciting destination where families and tourists will enjoy the unique opportunity to interact with DreamWorks branded content within Dubailand"

Dubai is planning a wide range of attractions in an effort to draw 15 million tourists to the country annually. Dubailand will also include Universal Studios, Dubai Sports City, Motor City, Falcon City, Dubai Heritage Vision, and Al Barari, which are under development. The Polo and Equestrian Club and City of Arabia are currently in the initial stages of development. Dubailand will also include residential units, shopping malls and 55 hotels.

Tatweer is a member of Dubai Holding. In addition to tourism and real estate development, it is involved in energy, healthcare and industry. Among its projects are the Tiger Woods--Dubai golf course, Dubai Industrial City, and Bawadi, a complex of 51 luxury hotels.