UAE-based Aldar Properties recently revised the master plan for its Al Raha mixed-use development to include a public tram line connecting to Abu Dhabi rail and public transport system, as well as water taxi stations along the canals.

The Al Raha Beach mixed-use development, which has now been approved by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council, is being constructed on Abu Dhabi Mainland, close to Yas Island.

The development consists of reclaimed land along the coast with a series of canals and islands interlinked by boulevards creating a unique waterfront community stretching over 20 kilometres.

The development has been designed to accommodate a future public tram line that will connect to the wider Abu Dhabi rail and public transportation system, as well as numerous water taxi stations along the canals.

Reclamation and infrastructure works commenced in 2006, today Al Raha Beach has iconic developments such as Aldar HQ and real communities in Al Bandar, Al Muneera, and Al Zeina. Al Raha Beach East is the first phase of the overall Al Raha Beach development and will provide over 3,000 apartments, townhouses and villas as well as 50,000 sq m of prime Grade A office space.

Future phases include Al Raha Beach West and, overall, an estimated residential population of approximately 60,000 is planned.

Mohammed Al Mubarak, deputy chief executive officer of Aldar Properties, said: “We are very pleased with the outcome of our collaborative work with the UPC on the Al Raha Beach Master Plan. It is considerably improved to match the needs of our customers and today’s’ market demand.”

“We are seeing significant sales and leasing pick-up on Al Raha Beach, this is great news for us as it paves the way to bring new, high-quality residential product to market this year.”

Mohamed Al Khadar, executive director, Development Review and Estidama, UPC, said: “This approval is an strong example of the continuous cooperation between the UPC and developers and investors of major projects.”

“This cooperation is achieved through the development communities’ usage of the UPC’s standards and guidelines that relate to residential communities, open spaces, environmental improvement, safety and security, and sustainability, in order to provide a quality lifestyle and, ultimately, improve the standards of living for all residents of Abu Dhabi Emirate in line with Vision 2030,” he added.

The three-part master plan includes plans for public realm typologies, infrastructure, streetscapes, land use, community facilities, and civil defence access within the Detailed Master Plan Report. – TradeArabia News Service