Abu dhabi: H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has witnessed the launch of Marsa Al Saadiyat, a development with a gross development value of AED100 billion, spanning a total area of 6.4 million square metres. Aldar is the master developer of the project, responsible for its overall design and the delivery of its primary infrastructure.
According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. Sheikh Khaled also directed the renaming of the project from Saadiyat Marina District to Marsa Al Saadiyat. The new name reflects the UAE's maritime heritage while preserving the emirate's seafaring identity. The project is set to house Abu Dhabi's largest marina, capable of accommodating up to 350 berths for sailing boats and luxury yachts.
Sheikh Khaled visited the Marsa Al Saadiyat project site to review the masterplan and was briefed on its design and infrastructure. The development will include amenities such as public parks, boat and yacht marinas, a waterfront promenade, walking paths, and cycling tracks. He emphasized that the project underscores the UAE's commitment to developing integrated infrastructure that enhances global competitiveness.
H.H. Sheikh Khaled also noted that Marsa Al Saadiyat aligns with the UAE's development model, focusing on quality of life, economic competitiveness, and sustainability. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi and Chairman of Aldar, described the project as a significant phase in the Saadiyat Island masterplan, highlighting Abu Dhabi's appeal as a destination for long-term investment.
Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group CEO of Aldar, stated that Marsa Al Saadiyat would reinforce Abu Dhabi's position in the global luxury landscape. The development spans 6.4 million square metres, with a waterfront of 8 kilometres, including 5.6 kilometres of beaches, interconnected walking paths, and cycling tracks. The masterplan features green parks, a central park, sports courts, healthcare facilities, and schools.
The destination will accommodate over 58,000 residents in private mansions, luxury villas, and waterfront apartments. The scenic walkway connects Marsa Al Saadiyat to the Saadiyat Cultural District, providing access to world-class museums, restaurants, and hospitality. The development will have a retail and dining promenade, yacht club, luxury hotels, and a theatre district.
Marsa Al Saadiyat complements existing cultural and natural attractions, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. It supports educational institutions like NYU Abu Dhabi and Berklee Abu Dhabi. The development will enhance connectivity with a new road network and Etihad Rail station.
Sales of the first homes will begin in the second half of 2026, with site works starting in the third quarter, marking a step in sustainable urban growth and real estate investment.