Abu Dhabi has entered a new era of dramatic development that will, over the next 10 years, propel the emirate to become one of the world’s leading centres of excellence in tourism, culture, infrastructure development, and business and social activity. The physical transformation will be truly spectacular. A series of massive investment projects promise to establish Abu Dhabi as one of the architectural wonders of the world. The hallmarks of these developments will be innovation, harmony, quality and style. Most of them will be outside the city centre thus ensuring that construction for the future does not spoil enjoyment of the present.
Saadiyat Island – Cultural District
Home to the world renowned Guggenheim and Louvre galleries, the Zayed National Museum, a performing arts centre, 29 hotels, three marinas, two golf courses and 19 kilometres of beach front, Saadiyat Island will put Abu Dhabi on a par with other global cultural centres. Much of the infrastructure for the island has already been completed, and the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, designed by Gary Player, will open in 2010.
Yas Island
Host of the inaugural Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix in November 2009, the massive 1,700 hectare Yas Island is already home to several new hotels, including the impressive Yas Hotel. The development will also host the world’s first Ferrari-branded theme park and several topnotch golf courses.
Al Raha Beach
Already well known for its lovely beach, the Al Raha district close to the airport is to be transformed through the development of a 6.8 million square metre site. It will reach along the highway on reclaimed land and offer residential, cultural and entertainment facilities as well as several hotels.
Abu Dhabi International Airport – Midfield Terminal Complex (MTC)
To cope with the rapid expansion of Abu Dhabi, a state-of-theart terminal will increase passenger capacity to 20 million per annum. The development includes a new runway (completed in 2008), air traffic control tower, cargo and catering facilities, utilities and related infrastructure.
Masdar City
The world’s first zero-carbon, zero-waste city will house 50,000 people. The city will be a high-density, car-free destination powered exclusively by renewable energy sources. Construction on the project has already begun.
Angsana Resort & Spa Eastern Mangroves
A project developed by the Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), the Angsana-branded luxury hotel and leisure resort will be situated in a mangrove environment on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi island. The resort will focus on environmental protection and eco-friendly relaxation and adventure.
Al Bateen Wharf Redevelopment
Al Bateen is one of Abu Dhabi’s oldest residential areas and is home to a tourist-friendly dhow building yard. The area is set to be heavily redeveloped into a mixed-use residential, hotel and leisure destination. The development will revolve aroundthe gorgeous Fisherman’s Marina, which will have several restaurants, a marina-side promenade and a yacht club.
The Regent Emirates Pearl
The Emirates Pearl will be a sparkly addition to Abu Dhabi’s soaring skyline. The 47 storey block has been designed by Aussie architect Dennis Lems and will sit on a 22 metre high podium, housing restaurants and shops. The tower itself will hold a hotel and apartments.
Qasr Al Hosn Conservation
Once the official residence of the rulers of Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Hosn is undergoing a major renovation that will eventually transform it into a national monument. The 200 year old heritage site will eventually act as one of the city’s main cultural destinations.
Central Market Redevelopment
This new mixed-use project will revolve around three large towers connected by a series of traditionally styled souks, shopping areas, hotels and nightlife hubs. The developer, Aldar, hopes to make Central Market synonymous with Abu Dhabi shopping and fashion.
