Real Madrid have announced plans to build a holiday resort in the United Arab Emirates.

The project is expected to open in January 2015 and will cost the Spanish giants around $1bn (£630m).

"Santiago Bernabeu gave Real Madrid a unique capacity to go beyond the borders of this country and those who are at the head of this club know that we have to manage the legacy of those who made this institution a myth and a legend," said club president Florentino Perez.

"The 'Real Madrid Resort Island' will be a high-level sporting tourist complex with 50 hectares in which tourism and sports will seduce millions of people who are looking to spend a quality leisure time."

The resort will hold a 450-room hotel, theme park, shopping mall and marina, amongst other attractions.

Written by
Jack Prescott