Grading work on the third phase of Dubai World Central (DWC), the massive, 140 square kilometre multi-phase development under construction in Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, has been completed at a cost of AED 159 million, enabling contractor access for construction of the development's first residential buildings.

Over 21 million cubic metres of earth was moved over 13 months in phase three; taking the total grading at DWC to 72 million cubic metres over three phases spread over 62 square kilometres since grading first commenced in January 2005.

“With the third grading phase complete, we will start handing over DWC Residential City plots to investors this month to commence development of the first housing units,” said Khalid bin Harib , CEO Real Estate, Dubai World Central.

“The completion of grading, on schedule, means DWC Residential City's first occupants are expected to move in before June 2009.”

DWC's phase three grading covered parceled zones earmarked for a balanced mix of residential, retail and hotels, in addition to communal areas reserved for educational, cultural, health and recreational activities as well as mosques, sports and entertainment centres.

Phase 1 grading work included Dubai Logistics City (DLC) – parcelled plots for the construction of shared forwarder warehouses, a dedicated contract logistics area, a Staff Village as well as peripheral roads and utilities.

Phase 2 grading work was spread across areas earmarked for Al Maktoum International Airport and parts of DWC Residential City, in addition to DLC's Headquarters and Office Park.

All three grading phases were carried out by Dubai-based Trident Transport Company.

“Work will now commence on the civic, commercial and residential amenities as well as architectural landscaping and green space provision for Residential City,” said bin Harib . “Around 50,000 people will live in Phase 1 when completed.”

Dubai World Central is currently in the process of awarding tender contracts for the MEP finishes of the passenger terminal, cargo terminal, specialised warehouses, DEWA cabling works and fencing for Al Maktoum International Airport which is set to be the size of Chicago's O'Hare and London's Heathrow combined.