Al Maryah Central Development earns UPC approval

The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) recently announced that Al Maryah Central Development, a Gulf Related mixed-use development worth $1.5 billion, has received Detailed Project Approval for the development of a Phase 1 retail component.

Phase 1 will build 3.1 million square feet into mixed-use development. Of this section, 2.3 million square feet will be a designated shopping center by the first quarter of 2018. The center will include 90 food and beverage outlets, 400 stores, a medical center, a health club, a crèche, a 20-screen cinema, a food market and a library. The center will connect to existing structures via future transport links.

“Detailed Project Approval from the UPC for Phase 1 is yet another crucial milestone for Al Maryah Central, Gulf Related, our investors, retailers and the residents of Abu Dhabi, allowing us to meet our Q1 2018 opening date,” Gulf Related CEO of Related Urban and President Kenneth Himmel said. “This development will create an urban retail, leisure and entertainment destination on Al Maryah Island that will serve the rapidly growing customer base on Al Maryah Island as well as catering to the wider needs of Abu Dhabi city. We are well-placed to deliver against our schedule, with construction having commenced at the end of last year, and are rapidly progressing with our finance and leasing commitments, on which we expect to make further announcements in the coming months.”

Three rooftop parks will be built on top of the mall. Later construction phases will create 400,000 square feet of integrated towers by 2019. One of these towers will house luxury residences and the other will be a hotel with serviced apartments.

“This milestone highlights our commitment to bringing high-quality, world class retail to Abu Dhabi, making Al Maryah Island a destination for residents and visitors near and far,” Gulf Capital CEO and Gulf Related Co-Managing Partner Karim El Solh said. “Abu Dhabi is growing quickly, its economy is diversifying and expanding rapidly. We look forward to being part of that growth and helping Abu Dhabi reach its Vision 2030.

Mohamed Al Khadar, executive director for Urban Development & Estidama Sector of the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council, said two years of research will enhance the project by ensuring it aligns with Abu Dhabi's policies and guidelines, enabling the project to move smoothly through the approvals process.

“The project is currently working towards achieving a 1 Pearl Estidama Rating, which supports our mission for sustainable urban growth," Al Khadar said. "This is a development that will enhance the existing urban landscape on Al Maryah Island, bring high-quality retail to Abu Dhabi and supporting the Government’s Vision 2030 for diversification and growth in the (United Arab Emirates).”