Mubadala Investment Company and Aldar have announced a landmark investment exceeding AED 60 billion to advance the next major development phase of Al Maryah Island, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as the region’s leading “Capital of Capital.”
This extensive expansion will introduce more than 1.5 million square meters of new commercial, residential, retail, and hospitality space. The project aims to elevate Al Maryah Island’s unique blend of luxury living, business excellence, and waterfront lifestyle by integrating community, commerce, and leisure into a single world-class destination.
A New Waterfront Vision for Abu Dhabi
At the center of the expansion is the Al Maryah Waterfront development, featuring a spectacular bay fountain capable of water displays reaching up to 75 meters high. The redesigned shoreline will offer vibrant dining zones, entertainment areas, and public event spaces designed to enhance the island’s dynamic social and cultural environment.
Building on the island’s current luxury offerings—anchored by renowned hotels such as the Four Seasons and Rosewood Abu Dhabi—the master plan includes additional upscale hospitality developments. The project also focuses on creating a sustainable, highly connected community, aiming for:
20% dedicated open space
Over 12,000 parking spaces
2.5 km of air-conditioned pedestrian walkways
These enhancements will strengthen the island’s position as a premier global financial and lifestyle hub.
Improved Connectivity and Infrastructure
Three new bridges are planned to link the northern part of Al Maryah Island with Reem Island and the Abu Dhabi mainland, reducing travel times and ensuring seamless access. Saadiyat Island will be reachable in less than ten minutes by car.
Enabling works for the expansion are expected to begin in 2026.
Expanding Abu Dhabi’s Financial Hub
The development is designed to support the rapid growth of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the region’s leading international financial center. ADGM has shown exceptional momentum with more than 11,000 active licenses, making it one of the fastest-growing financial hubs worldwide.
With approximately 40,000 people currently living within the financial district and strong demand for office and residential spaces, the expansion is expected to address capacity needs by adding:
Over 450,000 square meters of new Grade A office space
Nearly 3,000 luxury waterfront residences
Demand for high-end homes on Al Maryah Island continues to rise due to increased migration of international professionals and investors. New branded residences, such as those operated under prestigious hotel names, are already underway.
Strategic Vision for Abu Dhabi’s Growth
Executives from Mubadala, Aldar, and ADGM described the expansion as a defining milestone in Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic and urban development strategy.
Dr. Bakheet Al Katheeri, CEO of UAE Investments Platform at Mubadala, stated that the project unlocks the island’s final major landbank and accelerates its transformation into one of the world’s most dynamic global hubs.
Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group CEO of Aldar, emphasized that the expansion supports the UAE’s vision for a diversified, knowledge-based economy by attracting global businesses, investors, and skilled talent.
Salem Al Darei, CEO of ADGM Authority, added that the development strengthens Abu Dhabi’s status as a global capital for finance and aligns with ADGM’s ambition to create one of the most progressive and interconnected financial districts worldwide.
Joint Venture Structure and Retail Collaboration
Under the partnership agreement:
Aldar holds 60% ownership
Mubadala holds 40%
In parallel, the two companies are finalizing a retail joint venture that will own and operate Abu Dhabi’s major shopping destinations, including The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Yas Mall, and the upcoming Saadiyat Grove Mall.