logo
Yas Island's global appeal continues with launch day sell out of the first branded residences on the island

Yas Island's global appeal continues with launch day sell out of the first branded residences on the island

Zawya26-05-2025

Buyers from UAE, UK, and China represent the top three nationalities, with expatriate residents and overseas buyers accounting for 76% of total sales
First-time buyers of an Aldar property account for 70% of units sold
Abu Dhabi, UAE: Aldar has announced the launch day sell-out of all 133 homes at Waldorf Astoria Residences Yas, the first ever branded residential development on Yas Island generating AED 850 million in sales.
The development attracted a broad range of buyers with its world-class amenities, legendary Waldorf Astoria service, and prime location on Yas Island. Expatriate residents and international investors account for 76% of total sales, with the remaining 24% attributed to UAE nationals. Global demand was led by buyers from the UK and China reflecting the international appeal of Yas Island due to its position as one of the region's most vibrant destinations.
Notably, 66% of buyers were under the age of 45, highlighting strong demand for luxury, hospitality-driven living among younger demographics. Additionally, 68% of sales were to first-time Aldar buyers, reflecting the expanding reach and appeal of Aldar's residential offerings. The project brings Hilton's iconic Waldorf Astoria brand to Abu Dhabi for the first time, setting a new benchmark for luxury living in the capital.
Commenting on the sales performance, Jonathan Emery, Chief Executive Officer at Aldar Development said: 'The sell-out of Waldorf Astoria Residences Yas marks a significant milestone for Aldar and highlights the attractiveness of Yas Island both as an investment destination and prime residential address. As the island's first branded residential offering, its overwhelming success is a strong indicator of the rising demand for luxury, hospitality-led living in Abu Dhabi and the universal appeal of the Waldorf Astoria brand.'
Waldorf Astoria Residences Yas comprises an exclusive collection of elegantly furnished homes, including one-to-three-bedroom apartments, duplexes, and luxurious four-bedroom penthouses. The development is strategically located along the iconic Yas Links Golf Course, with sweeping views of both the lush fairways and the world-famous Yas Marina Circuit, home to the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
About Aldar
Aldar is the leading real estate developer, manager, and investor in Abu Dhabi, with a growing presence across the United Arab Emirates, the Middle East, North Africa, and Europe.
The company has two core business segments, Aldar Development and Aldar Investment.
Aldar Development is a master developer of a 62 million sqm strategic landbank, creating integrated and thriving communities across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Ras Al Khaimah's most desirable destinations. The delivery of Aldar's developments is managed by Aldar Projects, which is also a key partner of the Abu Dhabi government in delivering housing and infrastructure projects across the UAE's capital. Internationally, Aldar Development wholly owns UK real estate developer London Square, as well as a majority stake in leading Egyptian real estate development company, SODIC.
Aldar Investment houses a core asset management business comprising a portfolio of more than AED 46 billion worth of investment grade and income-generating real estate assets diversified across retail, residential, commercial, logistics, and hospitality segments. It manages four core platforms: Aldar Investment Properties, Aldar Hospitality, Aldar Education, and Aldar Estates.
For more information on Aldar please visit www.aldar.com

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Abu Dhabi to get Dh40bn wellness island as Aldar bets big on lifestyle-led urban growth
Abu Dhabi to get Dh40bn wellness island as Aldar bets big on lifestyle-led urban growth

Al Etihad

time4 hours ago

  • Al Etihad

Abu Dhabi to get Dh40bn wellness island as Aldar bets big on lifestyle-led urban growth

3 June 2025 01:00 ISIDORA CIRIC (ABU DHABI)Abu Dhabi's real estate ambitions just got a Dh40 billion wellness upgrade, with Fahid Island — Aldar's newest development — indicating that intent, rather than scale alone, has become a defining feature of the emirate's urban planning between Yas Island and Saadiyat, the 2.7 million square metre masterplan blends residential, recreational, and natural spaces, creating a mixed-use community where every resident lives within a five-minute walk of the sea and no more than 250 metres from green island, marketed as Abu Dhabi's first wellness-focused destination, includes more than 6,000 homes, a top-tier international school, retail and hospitality offerings, and 30% of the land reserved for green areas. 'Wellness is a mega trend, and for Aldar, that's not a new thing. Whether it's spa and hospitality, food and nutrition, sleep and breathing - it's everywhere,' Jonathan Emery, CEO of Aldar Development, said in an interview with Aletihad on Monday. 'The challenge for Aldar is, how do we bring that into a physical real estate solution? How do you actually make it real? Rather than just an experience, we have to build the stage for it, and that's what we're trying to do.' Designing for Wellbeing, Rooted in Community Fahid Island's masterplan builds on what Aldar has learned from years of work on Yas and Saadiyat. But Emery is quick to point out that this isn't a cut-and-paste version of previous he said, the project aims to respond to the new expectations of both local and international buyers, many of whom are looking for something different post-pandemic - more nature, less distance, and a quieter, more intentional way of a result, Fahid Island is being designed as a fully walkable and connected environment, with 15km of shaded pedestrian routes and bridges connecting both sides of the island to limit car use. It will also feature a 10km landscaped Berm Park, complete with cycling routes and running trails, and a 2km promenade.'We've learned how to optimise the natural benefits of the island,' Emery said. 'How to work with the mangroves, even with the wind, the sea, and the sun. Just understanding what those things mean to people.'The emphasis on proximity, ecology and liveability also ties into the UAE's current national theme, the Year of Community. In the case of Fahid Island, that has meant prioritising walkability, shared public areas and amenities that bring residents into contact with one another. Emery described this approach as rooted in the UAE's sense of 'generosity', not in scale, but in how space is shared.'It's about how we allocate space and how we create opportunities for people to meet. That's very much in line with the values of the UAE, and the kind of community we're trying to build.' Backed by Strong Funding and Market Momentum The first phase of Fahid Island, which includes the school and residential buildings, is expected to be completed by 2029. Later phases will be delivered over the following three developer acquired the land in early 2023 for Dh2.5 billion, initially estimating the site's gross development value at Dh26 billion, which has since grown to surpass Dh40 to Aldar, the project is already fully funded through a mix of corporate financing, bonds, sukuk, and projected sales. Sales are expected to begin shortly after the Eid Al-Adha, with one-bedroom units starting at Dh3.5 company is forecasting total development sales of between Dh36 billion and Dh39 billion in 2025, up from Dh33.6 billion last year, and Fahid Island is likely to play a substantial role in meeting those targets. Its launch comes amid a broader upswing in Abu Dhabi's real estate market, where demand for high-end, waterfront communities surged by 15% in 2024, according to a recent report by MPM Properties. Investor confidence received an added boost last month with the announcement of a Disney theme park on nearby Yas revealed that interest in Fahid Island has come from both international and local buyers, though the domestic market has shown particular strength. He attributes this resilience to a mix of ambition, talent, and the UAE's solutions-oriented approach.'The talent that now exists in the UAE is sort of unprecedented - it's an incredible place to be,' he said. 'It's an amazing talent pool that can help it achieve its ambition.' 'That, combined with a focus on quality and problem-solving, is what's driving the next phase of development.'

UAE grants music management licence as streaming market tipped to hit $2.3bn
UAE grants music management licence as streaming market tipped to hit $2.3bn

Arabian Business

time5 hours ago

  • Arabian Business

UAE grants music management licence as streaming market tipped to hit $2.3bn

The UAE Ministry of Economy granted its second collective music management licence to Music Nation during a ceremony held at its headquarters in Dubai. The licence authorises the organisation to manage the distribution of rights on behalf of music creators and performers, while also ensuring nationwide compliance among music platforms. It comes as the streaming market is tipped to hit $2.3bn by 2030 and musical artists and producers in the region look to monetise works. UAE music management The announcement was made during an event attended by Abdullah Ahmed Al Saleh, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy, and Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini, Assistant Under-Secretary for Intellectual Property. The Ministry confirmed that the licence was issued in accordance with Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2021 concerning copyright and related rights. It marks the continuation of the Ministry's efforts to strengthen intellectual property frameworks in the UAE, following the first collective management licence awarded to the Emirates Music Rights Association in April 2025. Al Saleh said: 'Under the vision of our wise leadership, the UAE has placed strategic emphasis on enhancing the competitiveness of its cultural and creative industries, driving their growth both regionally and globally. 'Recognising their vital role in national economic growth, we are committed to fostering public-private collaboration to cultivate an enabling environment for talent and innovation. 'By elevating the creative economy's legislative framework to world-class standards, we aim to expand the private sector's participation in it, in line with the National Strategy for Cultural and Creative Industries 2031.' The Under-Secretary said: 'The Ministry remains committed to establishing a world-class copyright governance system, drawing on international best practices. We are achieving this through strengthening legal and regulatory frameworks, fostering investment in creative sectors, and implementing robust collective management systems. 'These measures safeguard intellectual property rights while building creators' trust in the nation's creative ecosystem.' 'The collective music management licence serves as a catalyst for cultural innovation while safeguarding artists' intellectual property rights. Through establishing transparent revenue distribution systems and fair compensation mechanisms, it elevates the UAE's music industry – enhancing its global competitiveness and positioning our nation as a premier hub for creative enterprises'. Al Saleh emphasised that awarding the licence to Music Nation marks a strategic milestone in the UAE's commitment to fostering creativity. The initiative unlocks new opportunities for artists, writers, and producers while strengthening rights protection and leveraging creative-economy tools – ultimately positioning the sector as a key driver of national economic growth. Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini said: 'Our music industry is witnessing remarkable growth, fuelled by an expanding ecosystem of creative enterprises and world-class events. Dubai alone boasts 350 live music venues, while the national streaming market generated $841.9m in 2024 – projected to nearly triple to $2.3bn by 2030. 'To sustain this momentum, the Ministry of Economy is prioritising robust legislative frameworks that will further catalyse the creative economy and foster artistic innovation. 'Building on last month's inaugural licence granted to the Emirates Music Rights Association, today marks another significant milestone with the official authorisation of Music Nation. 'We are actively collaborating with local and global partners, including industry associations and legal experts, to share best practices that drive sector growth. 'In tandem, we're expanding awareness initiatives to ensure artists, composers, and producers fully leverage these licences to protect both their creative works and financial interests.' Rasha Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors for Music Nation, said: 'Today marks a pivotal moment for the UAE and Music Nation. After years of careful planning, Music Nation is positioned to become a cornerstone of music licensing, empowering the Emirates' vibrant creative industry. ''As an Emarati, I am honoured to establish a world-class music rights infrastructure that not only elevates local artists to greater heights, but also showcases our rich musical heritage and cultural traditions to the world. 'In partnership with industry leaders BMI and SoundExchange, our cutting-edge technology and services will protect music rights holders and propel the UAE's music economy to new frontiers'.

PureHealth expands Daman into property and casualty insurance
PureHealth expands Daman into property and casualty insurance

Gulf Business

time6 hours ago

  • Gulf Business

PureHealth expands Daman into property and casualty insurance

Image: Supplied Leading hospital and health insurance group PureHealth has announced the strategic expansion of its insurance arm, Daman, marking its transformation from a health-focused provider into a comprehensive, multi-line insurer with entry into the high-growth property and casualty (P&C) segment. As part of this evolution, Daman will adopt a new legal name: The National Insurance Company – Daman, reflecting its broadened scope and strengthened position within the UAE's dynamic insurance landscape. The transition reflects Daman's broader mission to meet the evolving protection needs of individuals and businesses across the emirates by offering them a broader suite of insurance services. As the insurance arm of PureHealth and the UAE's leading health insurer, Daman's expansion into the P&C segment supports its vision to become a comprehensive insurance provider and aligns with the group's commitment to deliver holistic care and coverage throughout all stages of life. Expansion part of PureHealth's broader strategy Shaista Asif, group CEO of PureHealth, stated: 'Daman's evolution reflects PureHealth's broader strategy to create a fully integrated healthcare and insurance platform that drives better customer service and long-term value creation. Expanding into the Property and Casualty segment enhances portfolio diversification, supports risk management across sectors, and reinforces our commitment to shaping a future-ready ecosystem aligned with the UAE's economic and social development priorities.' Khaled Binshaiban Almheiri, chairman of The National Insurance Company – Daman, commented: 'For nearly two decades, Daman has set the benchmark for health insurance in the UAE. This evolution marks a pivotal chapter – expanding our focus to offer a broader range of insurance solutions while maintaining the same rigour, trust and customer-first mindset our members know and value. By protecting individuals, businesses and assets, we are proud to play a central role in supporting the UAE's vision for sustainable wellbeing and long-term economic resilience.' Daman provides health coverage to more than three million members Daman currently provides health coverage to more than three million members across a network of over 3,000 healthcare providers in the UAE. Backed by a resilient operational backbone, Daman brings together AI-powered underwriting, industry-leading efficiency in claim settlement, and a multilingual service delivery infrastructure to seamlessly support its expansion into new insurance verticals, without compromising its longstanding reputation for excellence. As per the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), the total number of written insurance policies for all types of insurance within the UAE increased to 14.6 million policies year-on-year in 2023, compared to 8.4 million policies in 2022, due to a higher number of property and liability insurance policies. The UAE's P&C insurance market is poised for further accelerated growth, which is projected to reach nearly $16.8bn by 2031, according to Verified Market Research. In response to this growing demand, the company will continue to operate under the well-established Daman was named the best perceived health insurance brand in the UAE, according to the UAE Healthcare 2024 report from Brand Finance – a recognition that reflects its commitment to excellence and mission to cultivate a healthier community. This strategic growth plan reinforces PureHealth's broader vision to advance the science of longevity and deliver the promise of holistic care, from prevention to protection, through a connected health and insurance ecosystem.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store