A scholars’ association has warned that the Rasmalé development may be governed by rules similar to those applied to private resorts.
The association said the arrangements being put in place for the project risk creating a separate regulatory environment that could limit ordinary public access and apply resort-style controls. Details of the specific regulations have not been made public.
The warning follows ongoing debate over the government’s decision to allocate 500 hectares of reclaimed land to UAE developer Eagle Hills. Critics have argued that the lack of transparency around the project raises questions about sovereignty, public benefit and long-term control of the land.
Government officials have previously described Rasmalé as a major tourism and residential development. The scholars’ association called for greater clarity on the legal and regulatory framework that will apply once the project is completed.
The statement was issued on 19 October.