General Information » Economy » Key Abu Dhabi Projects

In 1990, Abu Dhabi municipality embarked on an ambitious 10 year plan aimed at providing the necessary infrastructure for the expected long-term expansion of the city. Much as already been achieved, a number of projects have already been completed, and more are underway.

During mid-2005, the first phase of the redevelopment of the Corniche was completed, and the accompanying parks and public areas have recently been completed. They are divided into three zones – a family zone, a central zone and a heritage zone. These new picnic and recreational areas, along with the already completed walkways and cycling paths are simply stunning, and provide ample place to relax and unwind. Thousands of square metres were dredged and filled to create them.

The second phase of the Corniche development (from the Sheraton hotel towards Port Zayed) will begin in 2006.

During 2005, the spectacular Emirates Palace Hotel was completed, and provides the ultimate in luxury and service. The second phase of the hotel is nearing completion.

About Dhs.40 billion worth of investment in tourism is planned over the next 10 years. The plan is to develop some of the 200-plus natural islands located around Abu Dhabi, as well as to develop a focus on eco-tourism.

Shams Abu Dhabi is a self contained community which will form part of the development of Reem Island. Bisected by canals and pedestrian walkways, it will include ten commercial, entertainment and residential districts, as well as a five star hotel and a marina.

The Al Gurm Resort (http://algurmresort.com/en) is under construction amongst the mangroves off the Coast Road, on the west of the island. An eco friendly development, it has been designed to blend into its surroundings. The 161 room luxury hotel is scheduled for a soft opening in 2007, with the luxury villas and signature island villas following at a later date.

Plans to convert the Al Hosn Palace into a museum were announced in 2005. Al Hosn Palace is the oldest building in Abu Dhabi, and is currently part of the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation. Already completed is the Khalifa Park project, which includes amusement parks, gardens and a museum. It will be expanded to include a memorial to Sheikh Zayed.

One the city’s landmarks, the Central Market, is already undergoing reconstruction. The redevelopment project will include apartments, an Arabian-style souk, restaurants, office space and a mosque. The area will also provide additional parking as well as bus and taxi points. The first phase of the project is expected to be completed by autumn of 2007.

To cope with the expected increase in touris...

Listings

Al Ain

Al Gurm Resort

Al Hosn Palace

Al Raha Beach Development

Angsana Resort & Spa

Bridgeway at Zayed Sports City

Central Market

Desert Islands

Emirates Palace Hotel

Emirates Pearl

Grand Corniche Hotel

Khalidiyah Mall

Noor Al Ain

Qasr Al Sarab

Saadiyat Island

Shams Abu Dhabi

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The Gate District

The Lagoon Club Hotel and Residences

The Quay

Yas Island