Abu Dhabi’s Premier Financial and Lifestyle District Enters a New Era

The development will transform the north side of Al Maryah Island, which represents the final major undeveloped landbank on the island, spanning nearly 500,000 square metres. The masterplan will deliver more than 1.5 million square metres of gross floor area, comprising Grade A offices, luxury residential homes, retail destinations, hospitality assets, and lifestyle experiences. This mixed-use approach seamlessly integrates commerce, community, and waterfront living, strengthening Al Maryah Island’s unique global appeal.

A key highlight of the expansion is the delivery of more than 450,000 square metres of additional Grade A office space, effectively doubling the island’s commercial capacity. This will significantly enhance Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the region’s leading international financial centre, which continues to experience rapid growth. ADGM now hosts over 11,000 active licences and accommodates nearly 40,000 professionals, positioning it among the world’s fastest-growing financial hubs.

Driven by rising international investor interest, demand for luxury residential properties on Al Maryah Island remains exceptionally strong. Branded residences such as W Residences and St. Regis Residences are already under development, and the new expansion will further support this momentum by introducing more than 3,000 additional luxury waterfront homes. These residences are expected to attract global professionals, investors, and high-net-worth individuals seeking premium living in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s financial district.

The expansion also enhances Al Maryah Island’s role as a lifestyle destination. Building upon established landmarks such as The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, ACTIVE urban sports hub, and the capital’s most Michelin Guide–awarded dining location, the new development will introduce an additional 40,000 square metres of experiential luxury retail and dining, alongside a world-class marina.

At the centre of the next development phase is the Al Maryah Waterfront enhancement, featuring an iconic bay fountain with water shows reaching heights of up to 75 metres. This landmark attraction will anchor a reimagined waterfront, offering new dining, leisure, and event spaces that further elevate the island’s vibrancy and visitor appeal.

With business and leisure tourism expected to grow significantly, the masterplan includes the delivery of new hotels, complementing the island’s existing luxury hospitality portfolio anchored by Four Seasons Abu Dhabi and Rosewood Abu Dhabi. These additions will strengthen Al Maryah Island’s position as a global destination for both business and luxury travel.

Dr Bakheet Al Katheeri, Chief Executive Officer of UAE Investments Platform at Mubadala, stated that the joint venture represents a defining moment in unlocking the full potential of Al Maryah Island. By activating the island’s final major landbank, the expansion accelerates its evolution into one of the world’s most dynamic financial and lifestyle hubs, supporting Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic diversification strategy.

Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Aldar, described the expansion as a pivotal milestone in Abu Dhabi’s growth as a global financial centre. Leveraging the combined expertise of Mubadala and Aldar, the project will create a world-class, mixed-use environment that attracts global businesses, investors, and talent, while enhancing the capital’s attractiveness as a place to live, work, and invest.

Salem Al Darei, Chief Executive Officer of ADGM Authority, added that the expansion marks a significant step in strengthening Abu Dhabi’s standing as a global capital for finance. With ADGM at its core, the development reflects the ambition to build a progressive, connected, and future-ready financial ecosystem.

Connectivity forms a central pillar of the masterplan. The project includes 2.5 kilometres of air-conditioned pedestrian corridors, over 12,000 parking spaces, and 20% open space within the district. Three new bridges will connect Al Maryah Island to Reem Island, mainland Abu Dhabi, and provide access to Saadiyat Island within 10 minutes, with enabling works scheduled to begin in 2026.

The joint venture is structured with Aldar holding 60% and Mubadala holding 40%, building on a strategic partnership spanning more than two decades. Previous collaborations include Al Maryah Tower, One Maryah Place, and a retail joint venture encompassing major destinations such as The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Yas Mall, and the upcoming Saadiyat Grove Mall.