Abu Dhabi government has unveiled major plans to develop a 30-km waterfront community on the 3,000-hectare Hudayriat Island located southwest of Abu Dhabi island.

Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) held a workshop with stakeholders on Monday to discuss approaches that will help transform Hudayriat Island into vibrant and sustainable community.

In line with the Abu Dhabi Plan, Hudayriat Island masterplan comprises a diverse range of facilities including those for recreational activities, a public shoreline, green mobility network and rich natural environment.

The UPC said under this ambitious project, several plots will be allocated for the UAE nationals, who will benefit from the Emirati Housing Programme.

An accessible waterfront spanning an impressive 30 km will be at the heart of the mixed-use development. It will take up to 10 minutes to walk from the waterfront to any point on the island, said the statement from UPC.

Abdulla Al Sahi, planning and infrastructure executive director of the UPC, said: "We will take an integrated approach to the planning and design of the island, while balancing social, cultural, environmental and economic factors within a robust stakeholder engagement process."

"By utilising and enhancing the environmental features in this unique area of Abu Dhabi, this development will raise the standard of living, restore Emirati culture, promote healthy lifestyles and create a variety of coastal activities and attractions," noted Al Sahi.

"We will ensure the masterplan complies with the UPC’s full suite of planning frameworks and manuals so that every step is taken to lay the groundwork for safe and sustainable communities in the future," he added.-TradeArabia News Service