Sometime in 2014, a theme park in the coastal town of Aqaba will open its doors to Trekkies everywhere − at least to those who can afford the cost of 21st century travel.
It turns out that King Abdullah II of Jordan is a huge “Star Trek” fan. (When he was prince, he had
a nonspeaking role in “Star Trek: Voyager.”)
The king, through his King Abdullah II Fund for Development, is the main local investor of the $1.5 billion project, according to
The National, an Abu Dhabi-based newspaper.
The Red Sea Astrarium, the planned 184-acre entertainment resort, will feature a “'Star Trek'-themed center that will deliver a variety of multi-sensory futuristic experiences, culminating with a state-of-the art space-flight adventure that takes real-time immersive entertainment experiences to bold new heights,” according to the developer,
Rubicon Group Holding.
But the theme park isn’t betting its future on science fiction. The site will also highlight the region’s rich history, and host a pavilion where businesses, students and others can learn about green energy, such as solar, wind and graywater harvesting. And to be all things to all tourists, the Middle East resort will also offer five-star accommodations, theater, fine dining, shopping and other non-futuristic amenities.
