Under construction in the Arabian Sea in Dubai is the world’s first underwater hotel, and if all goes swimmingly, the $550-million structure, 66 feet below the surface of the Persian Gulf, will open next year. It’s no Hilton or Ramada, Ian Schrager is not involved, and no one’s consulted Philippe Starck on furnishings. (Though may we suggest gravel floors and a tiny castle in each room?) It’s the big baby of developer and designer Joachim Hauser on land belonging to His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. They’re calling the project Hydropolis, and why shouldn’t they? It should sound like something fantastic that will propagate sequels. The 220-suite luxury hotel features three sections: a land station, where guests will be welcomed; a connecting tunnel, which will transport people by train to the main area of the hotel; and 220 suites in the undersea complex, rates for which are expected to be $5,500 a night. But will it have a pool?

(Additional, t/y Ben)