Dead set on owning the title of largest everything, Dubai recently unveiled plans to open an 8 million square feet mall, that will also be the world's first 'temperature-controlled pedestrian city' and with a 48 million square feet spread. “This project complements our plans to transform Dubai into a cultural, tourist and economic hub for the 2 billion people living in the region around us; and we are determined to achieve our vision,” said Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, in a statement announcing the launch.

The Mall of the World is hoping to merge a unique shopping experience with leisurely living, planning to have over 100 hotels, the world's largest indoor theme park, a “Wellness District” offering cosmetic and top-of-the-line health care, and will anchor Dubai's cultural district that they hope will compete with New York's Broadway.

The overall goal is to attract 180 million visitors annually, and are hoping that a climate controlled city within a city will make the city attractive during the ridiculously hot summer months.

“This project is a product of extensive research studying international and regional tourists’ requirements and preferences,” said Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, Chairman of Dubai Holding, which is the entity developing the Mall. He adds that “the objective is to create an integrated city with a plethora of best-in-class options within pleasant environments. The project will be developed in phases in alignment with the gradual growth of family tourism in Dubai.”

This announcement comes as no surprise or shock, as it has become common to hear news from Dubai about their latest largest project. Only time will tell if Dubai's bubble will burst, but for the mean time it remains the world's largest overcompensating exclusive playground for the rich.