Tatweer, a member of Dubai Holding, today announced it has formed a strategic alliance with US-based DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc to develop a diverse portfolio of tourism and leisure projects in Dubailan, the world's most ambitious tourism, leisure and entertainment destination.

A highlight of the alliance will be the creation of the world's first DreamWorks Animation branded theme park in Dubai. The outlay at the 5 million sq feet theme park project is a multi-billion AED investment.

The venture will bring to life the much-loved characters from DreamWorks Animation films, including Shrek, the upcoming Kung Fu Panda and several others, to create adventures and attractions in a first of its kind development for the studio.

Tatweer and DreamWorks Animation will also work together to develop new concepts, including Dreamworks Animation themed restaurants, hotels and retail outlets in the region, providing unique experiences through the use of innovative media and creative storytelling.

Saeed Al Muntafiq, Executive Chairman of Tatweer, said: "We are extremely proud of our alliance with DreamWorks Animation. The partnership demonstrates our dedication to deliver on the tourism objectives of Dubai Strategic Plan 2015, announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

"As the owner and developer of the three-billion sq ft Dubailand, which hosts some of the world's most enchanting entertainment concepts, Tatweer has become a leader in bringing landmark projects to Dubai, including Bawadi, Tiger Woods Dubai and the world's best theme parks. DreamWorks Animation's global reputation in character creation and its strong character portfolio will add further value to our offering, providing an enhanced experience to visitors and tourists."

Jeffrey Katzenberg, CEO of DreamWorks Animation, said: "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."

Roger Enrico, Chairman of DreamWorks Animation, adds: "We are excited over the opportunity to align DreamWorks Animation with a company like Tatweer, which has a proven reputation as a leader in the growing tourism, leisure and entertainment industry throughout this region. The complementary strengths of both organizations will further contribute to Dubai's emergence as a premier global tourist destination."

Tatweer's strategic partnerships for unique entertainment concepts with world leading entertainment brands such as Dreamworks Animation will help Dubai meet its tourism objectives of attracting an average of 15 million tourists annually to Dubai.

Dubailand spreads on an area of 3 billion sq ft, and includes Universal Studios Dubailand, Dubai Sports City, Motor City, Falcon City, Dubai Heritage Vision, and Al Barari which are projects that are under advanced stages of development in Dubailand. The Polo and Equestrian Club and City of Arabia are currently in the initial stages of infrastructure work.