Al Maryah Island Waterfront revamp to include AI-powered water jets
The monumental development will deliver a suite of world-class features and amenities set to elevate guest experiences.
A major part of the Al Maryah Island Waterfront revamp includes the building of a 30-meter-tall luminous sphere, enveloped in flowing water and set within the bay. It will be surrounded by over 1000 AI-powered jets of water soaring more than 75 meters skyward in dazzling choreography to music by acclaimed composer Ramin Djawadi. The feature is designed by WET, a premier water design firm.
Djawadi is an Iranian-German film score composer and conductor who composed the main theme music of Game of Thrones (season 8), the ending theme of Batman Begins and more.
UAE megaprojects: 53 major developments across the country we can't wait for And there's more…
Al Maryah Waterfront
Other developments include a sea boardwalk giving guests access to the water's edge and a shaded outdoor cooling system which will be a welcome relief during summer. For foodies, expect new food and beverage zones, and event-ready public spaces.
The glow-up will further bolster Abu Dhabi's standing as a premier global destination.
Speaking on the enhancement project, Dr Bakheet Al Katheeri, CEO of UAE Investments, Mubadala stated, 'This project will deliver iconic elements that elevate the quality of life and offer a diverse experience for visitors, while reinforcing the island's position as a premier lifestyle destination.'
Once completed, the Al Maryah Waterfront will serve as a dynamic backdrop for public life—designed to attract global visitors, support the capital's tourism ambitions, and provide premium opportunities for leisure, culture, and commercial activation.
This project is part of Mubadala's broader commitment to enabling the emirate's long-term vision of a sustainable, globally competitive, and future-ready urban landscape.
An expected completion date has not been announced.
Images: Supplied by Mubadala
> Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Sharjah 24
8 minutes ago
- Sharjah 24
Wadi Al Helo and Mleiha to join Sharjah's World Heritage map
Global recognition and national benefit In an interview with the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Yousif explained that the successful nomination of Jebel Faya received scientific support from 13 out of the 21 countries on the World Heritage Committee, which represents international recognition of the site's authenticity and importance. He pointed out that this achievement brings strategic benefits to the UAE and "Sharjah" by positioning the region as a key location in human history, encouraging specialised and sustainable cultural tourism, and creating diverse job opportunities, such as heritage-guided tours. Collaboration between key Sharjah authorities These objectives, he noted, were achieved through close institutional collaboration, notably with the leading role of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) through the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, and the contribution of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority through the Jebel Buhais Geological Park, which plays multiple scientific roles. The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority also plays a vital role in promoting tourist centres. Jebel Faya's nomination timeline and scientific value Yousif also reviewed the history of the nomination file titled 'The Cultural Landscape of the Prehistoric Faya Region,' noting that the first discoveries began in 2003 by a German mission led by Dr Sabah Jasim. The site was added to the Tentative List in 2012, and in 2020, the nomination file was reformulated to focus on the site's outstanding value as the earliest desert settled by humans during the Palaeolithic era. Discoveries confirmed that Jebel Faya was the southern route to the Arabian Peninsula around 200,000 years ago. Visitor accessibility and environmental care Kholoud Al-Houli Al-Suwaidi, Director of the Tangible Cultural Heritage Department at the Authority, told WAM that the site's management plan was fully prepared before the nomination was submitted. She emphasised that Jebel Faya, unlike many other global sites, is open and ready to receive visitors. The Mleiha Archaeological Centre provides special tours, guided by trained guides who alter vehicle routes every two weeks to reduce environmental impact. Ongoing commitments and future reporting Al-Suwaidi noted that the inscription entails a major commitment to submit annual conservation plans and five-year monitoring reports to the World Heritage Centre to ensure the site's protection for future generations—an obligation based on decades of research and documentation. Geological uniqueness of the Faya range She also highlighted the site's unique scientific value, as the Faya mountain range is composed of rare ophiolite rocks representing the Earth's mantle, making it one of the top three sites worldwide for geological study and the most accessible compared to the Hajar or Himalaya mountains. Support from Sharjah leadership and local entities Both officials stressed that this achievement is safeguarded by an integrated legal framework issued by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who provided unlimited support for the project. The Legal Department and the Department of Planning and Survey further backed the accomplishment by issuing development regulations for the protected zone. Special thanks were also extended to Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, the file's ambassador, for her pivotal role in overcoming challenges, as well as to 12 local departments that contributed to this milestone.
What's On
13 hours ago
- What's On
20 of the best restaurants for chilled out birthday celebrations in Dubai
Celebration is the joy of life, and there's always a reason to celebrate. Whether it's an accomplishment, a life change, a special person in your life or just because… Birthdays are one of those days you can honour the people who make your life great, and there's plenty of spots in Dubai to do just that. For those of us who don't like to make a big show of it, these elevated casual spots are where to be for your big day. Kiyoshi Located in Dubai Creek Harbour, this spot has all the makings of your next favourite casual Japanese retaurant. At first glance, Kiyoshi looks unassuming but inside, it offers a menu of delicious Japanese classics and modern fusions, all with the stunning view of the Creek right outside. It's nice enough for a date night and casual enough to make it spontaneous. And if you're in and around the community, this is where you need to go next. Location: Kiyoshi, Dubai Creek Harbour Times: daily, 12pm to 1am Contact: (0)4 572 6578 @kiyoshidubai Apollo Nestled by the waters of Palm Jumeirah in Palm Views West, this is a modern, all-day bistro serving up contemporary, inventive flare – the kind of cool, casual vibe that's all the rage in Dubai right now. On the menu, you can sample classic and comfort dishes like ceviche classico, Asian chicken salad, prawn sesame toast, spinach and artichoke dip, Peruvian grilled octopus, clam linguine, chicken pot pie, duck confit with arroz nikkei, apollo burger with dry aged wagyu and caramelised pop-corn ice cream. Location: Palm Views West, Palm Jumeirah Times: Daily, 12pm to 1.30am Contact: (0)4 576 2301 @apollothepalm Iranish If you're looking for the most authentic Iranian food you can find in Dubai, Iranish is the place to be. It's filled with stories and each dish they serve has a sweet tale of nostalgia behind it. The flavours are uniquely Iranian, meaning you won't find Iranian food of this kind elsewhere in the city. Decked out in traditional accents and furnishings, it feels like a rich, homely living room, which is exactly why you can come as you are and feast on comfort food. Simply bring a curious appetite and you'll leave fed, happy and wanting to come back for more. Location: Iranish, Wasl 51, Jumeirah Times: Monday to Thursday, 12pm to 11.30pm, Friday to Sunday, 12pm to 1am Contact: (0)52 149 5857 @iranishdxb Girl & the Goose Girl & the Goose comes with a long history, a supper club legacy that has enthralled and delighted the taste buds of many a discerning diner – 5,000 if you want the exact number. Now, they've expanded their home into a more open space with a stunning location in the heart of Dubai that feels like home from the moment you enter. Inside, you'll have a bite of ravishing Central American fare, reimagined by Chef's Gabi's travels around the world. Read our review here. Location: Girl & the Goose – Restaurante Centroamericano, Anantara Downtown Times: Daily, 10am to 12pm Contact: (0) 52 772 9888 @ Daikan Izakaya The slightly more glamorous counterpart of Daikan Ramen, Daikan Izakaya in City Walk's C2 Licensed District is a the perfect crossroads between fancy nightlife and laid back dinner. You can come here on a weeknight or a weekend, dressed up or down and enjoy simple, great food in a vibrant vibe. You can dine, lounge at the bar post your meal, and with a bustling atmosphere, it'll always feel upbeat and lively. Location: Daikan Izakaya, City Walk Times: Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 12am, Friday and Saturday, 12pm to 1am Contact: (0)52 703 8369 @daikanizakaya_ae Duo Gastrobar Award-winning DUO has officially landed in the Dubai desert, with loads of love from St Petersburg, Russia. DUO is known for its reasonable prices, quality ingredients, delicious signature cocktails, and lively atmosphere. Its menu blends modern European cuisine, with a slight touch of Asia. Chef Dmitry Blinov brings 40 of his best dishes from DUO Band's restaurants to this Dubai Hills outpost including the tuna ceviche, broccoli pate, and oxtail pie with taleggio. Location: Duo Gastrobar, Dubai Hills Business Park 4 Times: Weekdays 12pm to 11pm, weekends 12pm to 12am Contact: (0)52 686 6249 @ Uchi Uchi in DIFC is smaller than you'd expect, but it's also cosy, quiet and the perfect place for a casual date that's not too casual. Not only is the food delicious and wholesome, it's such a welcome break from the loud, large spaces that are a Dubai staple. A beautiful bar takes up much of the space in the middle and the service is welcoming and warm. DIFC comes off as too frilly, but this is one of the more easy-going spots where you can show up on the whim and find a good meal, guaranteed. Location: Uchi, DIFC, Dubai Times: Sunday to Wednesday, 12pm to 1am, Thursday to Friday, 12pm to 2am Contact: (0)4 298 5044 @ VNYL This is a new chip on the block – VNYL Dubai likes to call itself a Hi-Fi bar and has a swanky space plastered with all things music. Here, you'll find records on records from the very best of yesteryear, and guests can have their very own high-fidelity listening party. This is where you'd come for a no-frills night out and when you're done with dinner and drinks. Head on over for the after party, which truly comes alive post midnight. Location: VNYL HiFi, Bluewaters Island Times: Monday to Thursday, 1om to 1am, Friday to Sunday, 1pm to 4am Contact: (0)52 249 4004 @ Cucina Cucina feels like a family neighbourhood Italian, with the warmth and the carbs to show for it. This is a family-oriented restaurant and perfect for a cosy weeknight or weekend dinner date where you all want is a bowl of safe, delicious pasta and the company of a special person. They also have a gelato parlour, because you can't end dinner without a delicious dessert. Location: Cucina, Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah Times: Daily, 7am to 1am Contact: (0)4 666 1408 @cucinathepalm KATA As far as sushi in the mall goes, Kata really takes the cake. This Japanese restaurant has incredibly plated food that will look gorgeous on your socials, and where the food looks good, it tastes even better – we promise. And it's mall dining, which means you can end up here after a day of shopping or just because and it's all chill. From maki towers to braised short rib, our personal favourite? The mushroom truffle rice pot. Location: KATA, The Dubai Mall Times: Daily, 10am to 12am Contact: (0) 4 273 3800 @ Isola Ristorante Tucked away in Jumeirah Islands Clubhouse, Isola Ristorante channels the breezy charm of Italy's southern coast. It's stylish but unpretentious—think sun-soaked terraces, lemon trees, and a menu that leans into fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and crisp Mediterranean flavours. Perfect for long lunches or slow, wine-filled dinners, Isola balances elegance with ease. It's not trying too hard—just really good food, warm service, and that effortless Italian way of making you feel at home. Location: Isola Ristorante, Jumeirah Islands Clubhouse Times: Monday to Thursday, 12pm to 11pm, Friday to Sunday, 8am to 11pm Contact: (0) 4 583 3124 @isolarestaurantdubai Lola Taberna Lola Taberna is all about good food, good vibes and Spanish flair. Inspired by Andalusian streets and flamenco icon Lola Flores, its rustic‑chic décor and colorful murals set a lively tone. The menu spans regional classics – from Madrid's patatas bravas and gambas al pil‑pil to Valencia paella and Iberian charcuterie. Friendly service, authentic wines and cocktails, and vibrant evenings complete the fun, welcoming vibe. Location: Lola Taberna, TRYP By Wyndham Dubai Times: Daily, 1pm to 1am Contact: (0) 4 247 6688 @lolataberna SOON Izakaya For the music-loving, party people – SOON Izakaya is a cool, neon-lit tribute to Tokyo's late-night dining culture. Tucked away in JLT, this retro-futuristic spot blends Japanese street-style eats with playful 80s nostalgia. From yakitori skewers and gyoza to creative cocktails and sake, the menu is made for sharing. With arcade games, bold décor, and an edgy soundtrack, SOON offers a quirky, immersive experience that's equal parts izakaya, bar, and underground hangout. Location: SOON Izakaya, JLT Times: Monday to Thursday, 12pm to 1am, Friday, 12pm to 3am, Saturday, 5pm to 3am, Sunday, 5pm to 1am Contact: (0) 55 434 0575 @soondxb Rare Brasserie & Bar As you step through the doors, Rare Brasserie & Bar comes alive, with the sounds, sights and smells that feed your other senses before you even begin to eat. The first thing you'll see is the stunning bar – it's hard to miss. Everything is draped in shades of red, wine and brown, from the ceiling to the wood walls and the deep velvet seating to the curtains. It's edgy, it's glamorous – it's a mysterious woman in a leather jacket wearing a killer red lip. Location: Rare Brasserie & Bar, City Walk Times: Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 1am, Friday and Saturday, 12pm to 2am Contact: (0) 4 287 4604 @theraredxb Miss Lily's Miss Lily's in Dubai brings the vibrant spirit of the Caribbean to the heart of the city. Located at the Sheraton Grand Hotel, this NYC export is known for its bold Jamaican flavours, retro island vibes, and lively soundtrack. From jerk chicken to rum punch, the menu is a tropical celebration. Expect laid-back charm, colourful interiors, and a party atmosphere that keeps the energy high every night of the week. Location: Miss Lily's Sheraton Grand Hotel Times: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 7pm to 2am, Wednesday, 7pm to 1am, Friday, 7pm to 3am, Saturday, 8pm to 3am, Sunday, 2pm to 6pm, 7pm to 1am Contact: (0) 4 356 2900 @misslilysdxb Soul Kitchen A concept by Factory People, a Beirut-based group of artists and music enthusiasts, Soul Kitchen advertises that it's here to 'redefine the nightlife scene in Dubai while supporting Arab culture, cuisine, musicians, and artists.' Located in Business Bay, the art-focused venue features a stunning cocktail bar, outdoor terrace and two restaurant areas. There's an energy at Soul Kitchen, even on a Monday night, that makes a visit absolutely worth it, with a cool crowd that made us feel like we were a part of something great. Location: Soul Kitchen, Marasi Drive, Business Bay Times: Monday to Thursday, 6pm to 2am, Friday, 6pm to 3am, Saturday, 12pm to 3am Contact: (0) 4 836 0900 @soulkitchendxb Berenjak Persian food, done right – that is Berenjak for you. A grand space that envelopes you with the warmth of a Persian home, here you'll find not just the classics, but also inventive takes on Persian cuisine, packed with flavour, feel and filling ingredients that offer a hearty dining experience. Persian carpets, crystal chandeliers, colourful portraits and grand drapes – you eat not just with your mouth, but with all your senses. Now open across Dubai and Sharjah. Location: Berenjak, Dar Wasl Times: Monday to Thursday, 12pm to 5pm, 6pm to 11.30pm, Friday and Saturday, 12pm to 12.30am, Sunday, 12pm to 11.30pm Contact: (0) 4 295 3644 @ Primi Primi in Dubai serves up Italian-inspired comfort food with a fresh, modern twist. Located at The Beach, JBR, it's a bright, breezy spot perfect for casual dining with friends or family. Think handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and bold, seasonal flavours. With its open kitchen, friendly vibe, and beachside views, Primi delivers a relaxed, feel-good experience that blends contemporary design with the warmth of classic Italian hospitality. Location: Primi, City Walk Times: Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 12am, Thursday to Saturday, 12pm to 1am Contact: (0) 56 992 4326 @primi_ae Khadak A mint from the Culinary Class of 2024, Khadak is the brainchild of Chef Naved Nasir, the captain of the ship that was the Dishoom brand for 15 years as it grew into a chain of beloved restaurants across the UK, introducing Indian food to curious diners. It's a wonderfully laidback and easy dining experience, made memorable by incredible food, welcoming hospitality and a come-as-you-are policy. Spontaneous dates begin here. Location: Khadak, Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah Times: Monday to Friday, 12pm to 12am, Saturday and Sunday, 12pm to 10am Contact: (0) 4 558 3787 @khadak_ae Images: Socials
Al Etihad
2 days ago
- Al Etihad
Electric car sales rebound globally as China pulls ahead
26 July 2025 10:15 MUNICH (dpa)Global sales of electric cars are picking up speed again, driven by strong growth in China and renewed momentum in Europe, according to a new analysis by consulting firm the first half of the year, more than 5.9 million battery electric vehicles (BEVs) were registered worldwide, a 37% increase compared to the same period in 2024. For comparison, full-year sales in 2024 had only grown by around 14%.China remains the dominant force in the market, accounting for more than 3.7 million of the new BEVs, a 47% jump Europe also saw a "renaissance" in electric vehicle uptake, with 1.2 million BEVs sold in the region, a 25% rise and a new record for the first half of any year, according to PwC. Analysts say tightening CO2 fleet limits likely contributed to the Europe is gradually losing ground as a global electric vehicle market due to faster growth elsewhere, particularly in China. PwC noted a 32% drop in BEV sales by German manufacturers in China, but the carmakers made significant gains across Europe during the same period. Sluggish US GrowthThe United States remains the third-largest electric car market behind China and Europe, but growth there continues to lag. Just 592,000 new BEVs were registered in the US in the first half, a 7% increase compared to the year before. Germany has reclaimed third place globally, with 249,000 new BEV registrations, ahead of the United Kingdom, which follows with 225,000.
