Latest news with #AldarDevelopment
Al Etihad
2 days ago
- Business
- 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.'
Arabian Business
15-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Abu Dhabi's Aldar launches first Waldorf Astoria-branded residences on Yas Island
Aldar has announced the launch of Waldorf Astoria Residences Yas, the first branded residential development on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, offering a collection of 133 furnished residences that combine luxury living with the hospitality of Waldorf Astoria. Positioned adjacent to Yas Links Golf Course and offering views of the Yas Marina Circuit and surrounding mangrove waterfront, the development marks the debut of Waldorf Astoria Residences in Abu Dhabi. 'As the first Waldorf Astoria Residences in Abu Dhabi and the first ever branded residential product on Yas Island, Waldorf Astoria Residences Yas is set to become the most enviable address on the island, offering residents unmatched luxury, an iconic lifestyle and signature experiences,' said Jonathan Emery, Chief Executive Officer of Aldar Development. 'With direct access to Yas Links and surrounding amenities, residents will have an opportunity to be immersed in the most vibrant neighbourhood in the region while experiencing Waldorf Astoria's globally renowned hospitality every day,' he added. Designed by Nordic Office Architects, the project features three buildings that integrate biophilic principles and reflect the character of Yas Island. London-based KZ Design Services led the interiors, with layouts including one-to-three-bedroom apartments, one-bedroom duplexes, and four-bedroom penthouses. Amenities include 24/7 personal concierge service, a residents' lounge inspired by Peacock Alley, a world-class fitness and spa facility, swimming pool overlooking the golf course, kids club, simulator room, games room, and cinema. In line with Aldar's sustainability goals, the development targets a 3 Pearl Estidama and 2 Star Fitwel rating. Aldar aims to cut construction-related emissions by 25 per cent through the use of low-carbon concrete and steel, while the buildings are expected to be 35 per cent more energy-efficient and 45 per cent more water-efficient than established global and local benchmarks. The development will launch for sale on May 22 at Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island.
Al Etihad
14-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Disney announcement a game-changer for Abu Dhabi and UAE property market
15 May 2025 00:26 KHALED AL KHAWALDEH (ABU DHABI)Just days after the announcement that the UAE will become home to the Disney Theme Park and Resort, Abu Dhabi's property market is already showing signs of accelerated landmark project - the first in the Middle East - is to be built on Yas Island, has sent a ripple of excitement through the real estate sector, prompting a surge in sales, rising investor interest and new development the response is Aldar Development, the master developer of Yas Island, which reported an immediate uptick in sales across its portfolio following the global Emery, CEO of Aldar Development, described the moment as transformative, "The announcement that the next Disney theme park will be in Abu Dhabi has already impacted the region's real estate market - clearly signalling the next chapter of growth, experience, and possibility for the capital and the UAE," he stated on LinkedIn this confirmed that resale values and buyer interest began climbing instantly, reflecting what he described as "clear market confidence and excitement".He added that Aldar is preparing to meet this rising demand with premium developments, including the soon-to-be-launched Waldorf Astoria Residences at Yas Links Golf Course, which will introduce branded luxury living to the island for the first time."With top-tier schooling, vibrant communities, and unrivalled access to retail, dining, and beaches, Yas Island is already a prime destination," Emery noted."The renewed energy across Yas builds on its world-class entertainment offer - F1, Yas Marina, and now Disney."Economists and real estate strategists have echoed Emery's outlook, predicting a wave of demand across Abu Dhabi and Amadhila, a property consultant and economist based in Dubai, described the Disney announcement as transformative for the UAE's real estate landscape."Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai stand to gain through increased property demand, stronger investor interest and higher valuations," she noted."Proximity to the new park will become a key factor for buyers and renters alike."Amadhila added that developers are expected to expand and diversify their offerings, catering to a broader customer base ranging from affordable housing to premium lifestyle communities. Investors, she said, can anticipate higher capital appreciation and stronger rental returns, especially in properties near the Dhabi-based real estate consultant Alfred P. Anil described the announcement as a game-changer for property investors, highlighting the potential for holiday home investments and rental yields of 9–11% in prime locations."If you've ever thought about investing in Abu Dhabi, this is the moment," Anil Klarka, another Dubai-based senior property advisor, also pointed to expected price increases not only on Yas Island but also in nearby communities like Saadiyat Island and Al Raha Beach. She forecasted a boom in short-term rental demand across both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, driven by the expected influx of tourists and families visiting the Disney resort."The Disney announcement cements the UAE as the number one leisure and tourism hub in the Middle East," Klarka said."If you're an investor, now is the time to act - before prices adjust." While Yas Island is poised to be the epicentre of this growth, industry analysts suggest the impact will extend across the UAE's property market, particularly as Etihad Rail and other infrastructure projects improve connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Zawya
17-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Aldar sponsors 1,000 UAE nationals to gain real estate agent accreditation
Abu Dhabi, UAE: Aldar announced today that it has sponsored 1,000 UAE nationals to gain real estate agent accreditation across Abu Dhabi and Dubai and upskilled over 100 individuals through an advanced training programme. The programme brought together a blend of local and international real estate expertise, with Aldar's UAE team collaborating closely with experts from SODIC and London Square. Participants received in-depth training on Aldar's global portfolio, sales strategies to unlock cross-selling opportunities, alongside a thorough understanding of UAE real estate regulations. Specialised system training was also provided to ensure participants' seamless integration within Aldar's digital-first ecosystem. Commenting on the initiative, Bayan Al Hosani, Chief People and Communications Officer at Aldar, said: 'Investing in local talent has always been a priority for us at Aldar. As the UAE real estate sector continues to flourish, it is essential that we invest in the development of Emirati real estate agents, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and credentials needed to excel, ensuring the market's sustained growth. We are not only enhancing industry standards and experiences but also reinforcing our commitment to building a more resilient real estate ecosystem in the UAE." The training programme complements Aldar's existing partnership with Dubai Land Department and aligns with the company's recently unveiled strategy to enhance customer experience through a hospitality-oriented mindset that is being instilled across all customer touchpoints. It also aligns with the establishment of Aldar's in-house customer experience academy, which will train more than 30,000 direct and indirect Aldar employees from Q1 2025 onwards. The real estate agent training programme underscores Aldar's commitment to developing the next generation of skilled local talent in the private sector, including within its highly skilled brokerage network. The announcement is in line with Aldar's ongoing commitment to upskilling UAE nationals and follows the company's accelerated achievement of its five-year Emiratisation target to create 1,000 jobs for UAE nationals. Aldar has hired 1,060 Emiratis in just three years ranging from fresh graduate to executive management level positions. 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 42 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.
Arabian Business
10-02-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Aldar Development's 2024 revenue jumps 90% and net profit surges 47%
Successful execution against the revenue backlog from existing and newly launched development projects during 2024 saw Aldar Development's full-year revenue jump 90 per cent YoY to AED 15.7 billion ($4.28 billion) from AED 8.71 billion ($2.37 billion) in 2023, while full-year EBITDA rose 75 per cent, from AED 2.47 billion ($670 million) to AED 4.3 billion ($1.17 billion). For the group, which includes both Aldar Development and Aldar Investments (Investment Properties, Aldar Hospitality, Aldar Education and Aldar Estates), FY2024 revenue was AED 23 billion ($6.26 billion), up 62 per cent YoY; Gross Profit jumped 44 per cent to AED 8 billion ($2.18 billion); EBITDA growth was 51 per cent to AED 7.7 billion ($2.1 billion), while Net Profit (after tax) was AED 6.5 billion ($1.77 billion), an increase of 47 per cent. A record fourth quarter saw Aldar post revenues of AED 6.5 billion ($1.77 billion, up 48 per cent YoY); Gross profit of AED 2.4 billion ($650 million, up 50 per cent) and EBITDA of AED 2.3 billion ($630 million, up 43 per cent). Group sales in 2024 rose 20 per cent to AED 33.6 billion ($9.15 billion). Strong demand for luxury developments across the UAE was supported by enhanced cross-selling from Aldar's international sales network. Group sales in Q4 2024 increased 13 per cent YoY to reach AED 9.6 billion ($2.6 billion). Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Aldar, was confident that the company will continue its momentum into the new year. 'During 2024, Aldar delivered exceptional operational and financial performance against the backdrop of a thriving domestic real estate market, which is being enabled by government policies that ensure the UAE is one of the world's most attractive destinations for both individuals and businesses to call home,' said Al Mubarak. 'Aldar Group sales increased 20 per cent to a record high of AED 33.6 billion, largely driven by exceptional demand for our residential developments in key UAE destinations. 'In 2025, we will deliver our first residential and retail concepts in Saadiyat Cultural District, which will be a milestone moment for Aldar as we contribute to Abu Dhabi's position as a global capital of arts and culture. We believe that new development launches across geographies and the expansion of our recurring income portfolio will fuel our growth in the year ahead.' Group revenue backlog reached a record AED 54.6 billion ($14.87 billion) at the end of December 2024, up from AED 36.8 billion ($10 billion) at the end of 2023, providing strong visibility on UAE and International revenue over the next 2-3 years. Aldar launched 12 projects in 2024, including four in the fourth quarter – Mamsha Palm, Faya Al Saadiyat, Mandarin Oriental Residences, and Mamsha Gardens. The develop-to-hold pipeline has expanded to AED 13.3 billion ($3.62 billion). The group said there was a robust demand from international buyers, with 2024 sales to overseas and expat resident customers rising to AED 22.2 billion ($6 billion), representing 78 per cent of sales. This was up from 66 per cent in 2023. Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Aldar, added: 'Aldar has delivered unprecedented growth in 2024 with the expansion of our development and investment platforms resulting in net profit more than doubling in the past two years. Group sales have more than doubled during this period, while our development revenue backlog has increased threefold to AED 55 billion. 'At the same time, the value of our investment properties portfolio has grown considerably to AED 42 billion. We continue to reshape our business with an uncompromising focus on customer experience, while investing in new technology and forming world-class partnerships to unlock new opportunities. With a strong financial foundation and a clear growth strategy, Aldar is well positioned to capitalise on opportunities across priority geographies.' The group has considerable available liquidity to support its growth agenda with AED 10.5 billion ($2.86 billion) in free and unrestricted cash, and AED 8.1 billion ($2.2 billion) in undrawn committed credit facilities at the end of 2024.
