Aldar has announced a major new waterfront development in the UAE capital with the unveiling of the masterplan for Fahid Island, a Dhs 40 billion mixed-use project located between Yas and Saadiyat islands.
The 2.7 million sqm island features 11km of coastline, including 4.6km of beachfront and extensive mangrove areas. Designed with wellness and sustainability at its core, the development is one of the largest of its kind in the emirate.
Waterfront living
According to Aldar, every part of Fahid Island will be within a five-minute walk to the water. More than 6,000 residential units are planned, including apartments, townhouses, and high-end villas.
The first launch, Fahid Beach Residences, will offer seven mid-rise buildings, each with 65 beachfront homes.
The island will also include a 2km waterfront promenade and a boutique retail street, Coral Drive, featuring cafés, art galleries, and concept stores. Public spaces will host outdoor activities like kite surfing, paddle boarding, and beach volleyball.
Wellness and sustainability
Fahid Island is the first island globally to achieve Fitwel certification, recognising its health-first design. It has also received LEED Platinum precertification and is targeting a 3-Pearl Estidama rating. Around 30% of the island is reserved for natural landscapes and wellness zones.
A 10km Berm Park, featuring green trails, running tracks, and cycling routes, will serve as a wellness corridor, linked to the city-wide Abu Dhabi Cycle Loop.
As part of the masterplan, Aldar is partnering with an unnamed international institution to bring a school to the island, supporting Abu Dhabi’s broader vision to become a regional centre for education. The school is intended to be a central part of family life on the island.
Design and accessibility
The development features architecture by leading global firms, including Japan’s Kengo Kuma and Koichi Takada, UK-based ACME, and UAE’s NAGA Architects. Connectivity is a key feature, with Fahid Island located within 15 minutes of Yas Island’s entertainment venues, Saadiyat Island’s cultural sites, and Zayed International Airport.
Mohamed Al Mubarak, Chairman of Aldar, said: “Abu Dhabi is a thriving, global destination where heritage and innovation combine to create a world-class environment to live, work, and explore. Sustainable and inclusive development has been a critical part of this success, which is why Aldar remains focused on delivering communities that reflect the values and ambitions of the UAE. Fahid Island is the latest chapter in that journey—building on the success of Saadiyat and Yas Islands to offer a new benchmark in premium waterfront living, wellness, and sustainable design.”
Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group CEO of Aldar, added: “Our plans for Fahid Island support a thriving real estate market in Abu Dhabi, where we are seeing incredible demand from buyers within the local market as well as overseas investors. With a gross development value of over Dhs 40 billion, Fahid Island is one of the largest mixed-use residential masterplans launched in Abu Dhabi and will ensure the emirate consolidates its position as one of the world’s most desirable destinations to reside, invest, and visit.”
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
