THE man credited with transforming Dubai into an economic powerhouse flies into Teesside tomorrow bringing with him the hope of thousands of jobs.

His Excellency Mohamed Ali Alabbar will be met by Middlesbrough Mayor Ray Mallon and North-East businessman Sir John Hall, the former miner's son who built the MetroCentre, near Gateshead. He is the chairman of Emaar Properties, one of the world's most successful developers, and is Dubai's economic director general.

Mr Mallon has been courting the tycoon for months in the hope he can convince Emaar to transform tracts of brownfield land in the River Tees corridor.

Last year, Mr Mallon led a delegation from Middlesbrough on a fact-finding tour of Dubai.

Emaar is credited as the company behind the transformation of the once desert state into a vibrant mix of village, town and city.

Developments include the world's tallest tower, hotels in the shape of a wave and sail, and areas reflecting the latest in architecture and the preservation and restoration of traditional buildings.

Mr Mallon believes Emaar's expertise and Mohamed Ali Alabbar's millions could transform the town and help realise the Mallon vision of a vibrant new Middlesbrough for the 21st Century.

His Excellency will be preceded by a forward party from Emaar which arrives today to investigate possible investment opportunities.

Mr Mallon said last night: "I am delighted that after months of planning, the visit is now going ahead. It provides us with a real opportunity to showcase the North-East.

"This sends a clear message that Middlesbrough and the Tees Valley is open for business and there is no limit to our ambition.''

Today, five members of Emaar, including the chief executive officer of Emaar Properties, will be given an aerial tour of the North-East including Darlington, Dur-ham, Hartlepool, the North-East coast, North Yorkshire Moors, Middlehaven and the Tees Valley.

His Excellency will meet Mr Mallon on Thursday.