It’s no secret that the capital’s skyline is ever changing. Thanks to a recent announcement of a list of new projects approved by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC), it looks like even more changes are in store.

Among the 76 developments that received the thumbs up is Al Maryah Central, a new shopping and entertainment destination to be linked to The Galleria on Al Maryah Island. It will feature department store Macy’s – the first one to be opened outside of the USA – and a Bloomingdale’s. On Yas Island, a luxurious Yas Beach Club will be built to extend the current offering.

More homes will rise up on Saadiyat and Al Reem Islands. New developments on Al Reem include the Mangrove Residence, which boasts direct access to a beach, and Al Qurm View, which will be built using only natural materials.

In Al Ain, a new tourist attraction is set to feature an African safari experience, botanical gardens and an amphitheater. It will be called World Desert Oasis and will showcase wildlife in a natural environment. Al Ain will also house a new community called Wahat Al Zaweya, which covers nearly 3.8 million square metres – approximately the size of 450 football pitches.

Mohamed Al Khadar, executive director of urban development and sustainable living at UPC, says, “These approved projects are very exciting as we look to develop and showcase the emirate of Abu Dhabi not only as a great place to visit, but also an attractive place to live.”

By Laura Volpi

Published: 02 April 2015 / Abu Dhabi Week