6 days ago
Abu Dhabi's Fahid Island units sale to begin after Eid; community details revealed
Abu Dhabi's first coastal wellness project Fahid Island, launched by Aldar Developments, is set to deliver beachfront living with shaded promenades, wellness zones, and a school following the British curriculum, with main infrastructure due for completion by 2029.
Located between Yas and Saadiyat islands, the project spans over 3.4 million square metres and includes 11 kilometres of coastline. Sales for the first phase are set to begin shortly after Eid. Prices have not been disclosed yet, but Aldar CEO Jonathen Emery confirmed that the offering will cater to a wide demographic.
'This isn't just any real estate development,' said Emery, at a media briefing and site tour. 'This is where you actually want to live your life, where you want to socialise, relax, raise your family. Every detail has been designed to elevate life for both residents and visitors.'
The first phase of the development is the Fahid Beach Residences — a collection of seven mid-rise buildings offering 464 units, including one- to five-bedroom apartments, ground-floor townhouses, and penthouses with panoramic sea views.
The buildings feature 'cantilevered, delicate white balconies' designed to mimic the softness of ocean waves, according to the project's architects.
A self-sustained coastal community
Fahid Island is envisioned as a car-optional, wellness-oriented community. Its layout prioritises pedestrians, with 15km of shaded walkways, dedicated cycling routes, and pedestrian bridges connecting the northern and southern districts of the island.
No home will be more than 250 metres from a green space or a five-minute walk to the beach. 'We want people to be walking from A to B, not jumping in their cars,' Emery explained, adding that the use of natural shading, low-heat-absorbing materials, and water features will help extend the comfort of outdoor living even in the hotter months.
The island's two main districts, Fahid Beach District in the north and the Mangrove Shoreline District in the south, are separated by the E12 highway but connected by the Berm Park.
This linear landscaped hill, which doubles as a noise and visual buffer, will house a 10km running track, cycling paths, yoga zones and shaded rest areas. It is intended to be open to the public and will host wellness clubs and fitness activations.
Cultural and community infrastructure
Anchoring the beachfront is a five-star resort and a marina, alongside the Coral Drive boulevard, which will offer a curated mix of boutique retail, art galleries, cafés and a ballet school. 'It's five-star quality in terms of the selection, not necessarily the price point,' Emery said of the island's retail and dining options, which are expected to range from boutique to accessible wellness-focused offerings.
'This is not your typical retail; we are going for a more creative and community-focused mix at different price points,' he added.
An international school following the British curriculum is also planned for the island, with further details expected to be announced soon. 'I've never been so excited about a school,' commented one of the project managers while pointing to the school's planned location during the onsite tour.
'It's going to be one of the defining features of the community.' In addition, the Palmary, a waterfront wellness and racket sports club, will offer residents exclusive access to state-of-the-art fitness facilities and courts, reinforcing the project's focus on healthy living.
Lifestyle by the water
Fahid Island's layout takes full advantage of its diverse waterfronts. The northern coast will feature white sandy beaches ideal for swimming and leisure, while the southern side embraces its natural mangrove ecosystem.
A dedicated water sports hub will offer activities such as paddleboarding, kitesurfing, including a planned kitesurfing school, and even illuminated night swimming. All main infrastructure, including the school, beach resort, and Coral Drive retail areas is expected to be operational by Q1 2029.
Environment and tourism potentials
Fahid Island is the first globally certified Fitwel community and has received pre-certification for LEED Platinum for cities and communities. Thirty per cent of the land is dedicated to open, natural spaces, and sustainability has been considered at every stage, from building orientation and materials to marine conservation efforts.
The project's proximity to major Abu Dhabi landmarks, including Yas Island, Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi International Airport and ADGM, adds to its appeal.
Its location, coupled with planned resort offerings, is expected to boost tourism in the capital. 'We see Fahid Island as more than just residential,' Emery concluded, 'it will be a living, breathing destination for residents and visitors alike.'
