Residents in the battle-hardened capital of Afghanistan have been treated with a new US$5m (£3m, €3.6m) waterpark in the heart of Kabul.

The new facility, which includes six water slides, a wave pool, whirlpool, sauna and restaurant is a male-only only facility, with the exception of young girls under the age of 10.

In 2014, foreign combat troops are set to leave the war-torn country, leaving some nervous about future ventures. At present when entering the waterpark, armed guards will search visitors upon entry.

“When we decided to build this place, we knew that 2014 was to come,” said one of the park’s managers, Mahmod Najafi speaking to Reuters. “For us 2014, doesn’t mean anything.

“We have provided jobs for 70 people and we have provided a good environment for our young generation.

“My message to other Afghan businesses is that if we don’t invest because of concerns about 2014, we will remain backward. Every Afghan has to work individually to promote this country.”