6 places you'll experience in Dubai's 'The Heart of Europe'

Back in 2003, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum unveiled his plans to build an archipelago dubbed "The World." As the name suggests, it aims to recreate the world map in the Persian Gulf. Following the financial crisis in 2008, the project took a slow turn.

That's when The Heart of Europe, a six island cluster, came into play in 2009. Although the announcement has been around for quite some time now, the plans and development of the project have only recently sped up, with the promise of completion by 2020 and phase one being ready by the end of 2016.

Fifty-one European countries will be represented in The Heart of Europe and six islands will be exclusively dedicated to one place, other than the Main Europe island. You up for an authentic European experience in Dubai?

P.S. The currency on all the islands will be the Euro!

This island is going to feature beautifully crafted inverted Swedish Viking vessels in its beachfront villas. During the year, this island will host authentic Swedish themed events and celebrations including Midsummer, National Day, crayfish parties and more . You definitely won't be missing out on traditional delicacies including meatballs, sour herring, toast skagen and hot mulled wine, to name a few.

Aside from all properties being characterized by modern German architecture, this island will be home to traditional carnivals, Christmas markets, Schutzenfest, wine festivals and of course the internationally acclaimed Oktoberfest. National and regional specialties will be available including eintopf, bratwurst, spargel, schnitzel and many more along with the finest German beers and wines.

Offering a taste of several European countries including, but not limited to, France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Portugal, Austria, Denmark, Montenegro and Switzerland. This island will be home to The Mont Royal Hotel, a five-star deluxe family hotel. With a wide array of choices of luxury hotels, marinas, white sandy beaches and restaurants, this island is surely a family destination. One of the key features on the island will be the climate control technology, allowing people on the island to experience true European weather.

This island will be home to a climate controlled plaza, a circus and a mountain spa, all inspired by Swiss culture and architecture. Guests visiting the island will be able to celebrate important Swiss events and enjoy authentic Swiss cuisine including fondue, raclette and traditional beverages.

Taking inspiration from the Maldives, this island will be surrounded by Floating Seahorses, partially underwater villas that will be connected to the island via floating jetties. There will be 100 of these villas available, of which half will be available for rent. This island is home to white sandy beaches and lush tropical gardens. Like all the other islands, St. Petersburg will host events celebrating The White Nights Festival and other events synonymous with the city's culture and heritage.

Characterized by key features from Monte Carlo, this island will boast a yacht-lined harbor, a wide range of cafes and restaurants and of course nightclubs. You will get to authentically experience Monaco's cuisine, including barbagiuan, fougasse, socca and stocafi.