Anheuser-Busch unit to build Dubai theme parks

DUBAI, Feb 28 (Reuters) - The family entertainment unit of Anheuser-Busch Cos (BUD.N: Quote, Profile, Research), the world's third-largest brewer by volume, is to develop theme parks on a palm tree-shaped island being constructed off the coast of Gulf tourism hub Dubai.

Busch Entertainment Corporation will develop the Worlds of Discovery on the Palm Jebel Ali, Dubai-based property developer Nakheel said in a statement on Thursday.

Orlando-based Busch Entertainment operates 10 World of Discovery theme parks across the United States.

Dubai government-owned Nakheel, which is developing projects totalling about $60 billion, said the scheme centres on the construction of four theme parks. The first will open in 2012.

Dubai, one of seven emirates comprising the United Arab Emirates federation, has embarked on major construction projects in recent years, ranging from the world's tallest building to three palm-shaped islands and an archipelago shaped like a map of the world. (Writing by John Irish; Editing by Quentin Bryar)