Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
Abu Dhabi's focus on liveability and people-centric development has raised the bar for real estate developers, resulting in community projects that make everyday life greener, smarter and more convenient for residents of the emirate.
Industry experts taking part in this year's Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit (ADIS) said the emirate's ability to combine large-scale development with sustainability and digital transformation ning sets it apart.
"Abu Dhabi has proved itself and has marked its place on the global scene in infrastructure, in livability, and in lovability," said Mahmoud Dandashly, Chief Business Officer at Lead Development.
Dandashly cited their Jubail Island project as an example of how the industry is moving in step with the emirate's long-term vision for urban development.
The island community - nestled in lush mangroves and estuaries - has been built around the principles of a "15-minute city", he said. Here, residents can reach parks, beaches, museums, schools, entertainment attractions, and the airport without having to travel far.
"Imagine have all these attractions [within a community's reach], it's unheard of worldwide," Dandashly said. The first district of Jubail Island Phase Two is set for launch on June 8, he added.
The project, along with others in the company's portfolio, is born out of a philosophy that wellness is not an add-on feature in communities, Dandashly said.
"It has to be well planned and embedded in the everyday life of residents."
More such developments, aligned with Abu Dhabi's vision, are showcased at ADIS, according to Andrea Nucera, Managing Director at Reportage Properties.
"ADIS reflects the future ambition of Abu Dhabi," Nucera said, adding that it also highlights the emirate's investment appeal.
In their company's experience, she said it was the "global partnerships, distinctive architecture, lifestyle-driven communities and accessible investment value" that made projects stand out. These include Brabus Island, Panorama by ELIE SAAB, Verdana, Sensi, and R.Hills.
Eng Ahmed Al Shamsi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Trojan Construction Holding, said the emirate's culture of innovation and sustainability is also reflected in how neighbourhoods are planned and constructed.
"Abu Dhabi always adopts the concept of smart cities. It remains open to new ideas and creates an attractive environment for creative ideas and development in the real estate sector," Al Shamsi said.
He added that the future of construction increasingly depends on automation, digitalisation, energy efficiency, water conservation, and environmentally friendly materials.
"These all contribute to making Abu Dhabi a leader in sustainability within the construction sector," he said.
