Waterfront community plan for capital island
Hudayriat to feature canals and a range of beach amenities
ABU DHABI // A major, 30-kilometre waterfront community has been planned for Hudayriat Island, just south of Abu Dhabi island. The Urban Planning Council said the project included housing for Emiratis in a sustainable community, with a range of amenities and public access to the beach.
The narrow, 3,000- hectare island will have waterfront developments on all sides and the beach will be a 10-minute walk from any point.
“This master plan is one of many that demonstrate our commitment to benefit the community,” said Abdulla Al Sahi, executive director of plan- ning at the council. “By using and enhancing the environmental features in this unique area of Abu Dhabi, this development will raise the standard of living, restore Emirati culture, promote healthy lifestyles and create a variety of coastal activities and attractions.
“We will ensure the master plan complies with the UPC’s full suite of planning frameworks so that every step is taken to lay the groundwork for safe and sustainable communities in the future.” Abu Dhabi first announced plans to develop Hudayriat in 2009, when work on Yas Island was under way. The southern part will be allocated for Emirati housing, according to Abu Dhabi Plan 2030.
The land will be “significantly expanded to the south and cut through by canals, with a transition to mangroves along its outer edges”, the master plan states.
An image in the plan shows several smaller islands, divided by waterways.
The northern side, running parallel to Abu Dhabi island, will be connected by a bridge near Arzanah, a community being developed by Capitala around Sheikh Zayed Stadium.
The northern section will developed by the Department of Presidential Affairs. The Tourism Development and Investment Company is overseeing construction of a US$ 50 million (Dh183.6m) bridge to the island.