Hudayriyat Island’s new district ready for visitors
Abu Dhabi’s latest entertainment and sports destination, Hudayriyat Leisure and Entertainment District, opens today.
What is Hudayriyat Island?
If you live in Abu Dhabi, Hudayriyat Island has been right under your nose for years.
Plans to develop the island were announced in 2009, but did not initially progress beyond the construction of a suspension bridge that was closed to traffic and became known among residents as the “bridge to nowhere”.
The project was revived in 2017, with plans to turn the 3,000-hectare island into a mixed-use community with an emphasis on fitness and nature.
In May, 2018, people could cross the bridge for the first time to reach an undisturbed 600-metre beach with running and cycling tracks, water sports, a bouncy castle and a children’s playground.
Since then, the island has been popular with cyclists and runners, and was chosen as the venue for triathlons and obstacle courses.
It was only last month that people received a sneak peek into the new developments that would transform the island into a popular destination for
Emiratis and residents. A visit from Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, revealed areas for camping, dining and many more sports activities.
“We aim to develop inclusive and unique projects which encourage a healthier lifestyle for the whole community,” Sheikh Mohamed said.
How to get there
A suspension bridge extends from Sheikh Shakhbut bin Sultan Street at the junction with Khalifa Al Mubarak Street.
The new development can be reached by turning right after crossing the main bridge.
There is a large car park on the island for those who prefer to drive.
What is new?
The district opening today has a camping area, obstacle course, BMX track and skate park. Other attractions include new dining options, a water park and heritage walk.
“Hudayriyat Island ... is a solid new addition to Abu Dhabi’s tourism portfolio,” said Ahmed Al Zaabi, associate director of delivery at Modon, the developer.
He said the island was designed with Abu Dhabi’s rich
diversity in mind. “We look forward to welcoming visitors to showcase the variety of offerings,” he said.
Marsana
At the heart of the island is Marsana, a waterfront promenade with room for more than a dozen food and beverage outlets.
There is easy access to the public beach, cycle paths and a marina with a wooden pier.
“We have an outdoor gym here that everybody can enjoy,” Mr Al Zaabi said.
The area also has its own beach overlooking a #Hudayriyat sign, which can be seen from the other side of the island.
“This hashtag logo has been made especially for Marsana, so people can sit and enjoy it with the sunset or sunrise in the background,” Mr Al Zaabi said.
“This beach is closer to the cafes here, so you can enjoy the water and at the same time benefit from the food and beverage
outlets nearby.” Swimming enthusiasts have free access to the beach, which extends over 24,000 square metres.
Six hundred metres are dedicated to swimming
There is also a marina where up to 40 boats can dock.
The splash park for children includes a climbing structure and a treasure hunt inside a ship, but it will remain closed until the Covid-19 pandemic is over, Mr Al Zaabi said.
The island’s camping section will allow visitors to book a stay in standard tents, which fit up to two people, or a luxury tent.
The luxury tents can house groups of four or six but an option for a two-floor tent with private beach access is also on offer.
Bab Al Nojoum also includes a camping area for families, and camper van options.
The standard tents can be rented for Dh150 to Dh300 a night, depending on size.
Campers will also have access to toilets, showers and barbecue grills that have been set up in the area.
More luxurious tents are available for about Dh1,000.
Some tents are attached to vans that can fit beds and have rooftop seating.
The most luxurious option is a beach cabana with its own small swimming pool.
The Hudayriyat Heritage Trail begins at Marsana.
Visitors can become acquainted with the historical and cultural significance of the island, with educational signs and artworks along the path.
A guide will lead visitors, telling tales of the past.
Sports321
The sports area can be found near Bab Al Nojoum.
There is a football pitch as well as tennis, basketball and badminton courts.
Six 400-metre jogging tracks and cycling paths have also been set up.
Up to 10km of wide, shaded tracks allow for cycling and walking.
The dedicated Bike Park includes three different trails, for beginner (3km), intermediate (5km) and advanced cyclists (10km).
Visitors can also enjoy recreational exercise at the 300metre Floating Track.
There is a large indoor gymnasium with tennis, volleyball and basketball courts and another football field.
“This is for people to enjoy when it is too hot outside,” Mr Al Zaabi said.
Circuit X
Described as an “adventure hub”, this area has four sections: a BMX track, splash park, high rope course and skate park.
Those who feel adventurous can take on the 31 obstacles at the high ropes course, starting with a climbing wall and ending with a zip-line.
How to book:
Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, visitors are required to book in advance at hudayriyatisland.ae.