Marsa Saadiyat launched with AED 100bn masterplan to transform Abu Dhabi waterfront
Abu Dhabi launches Marsa Saadiyat — a AED 100 billion, 640-hectare waterfront masterplan by Aldar featuring a 350-berth marina, cultural links and H2 2026 residential sales.
Sheikh Khaled inaugurates Marsa Saadiyat launch
Sheikh Khaled bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Executive Council, presided over the launch of Marsa Saadiyat today.
The announcement confirms Aldar as the master developer responsible for the destination’s overall design and delivery of primary infrastructure.
Project scale: AED 100 billion across 640 hectares
Marsa Saadiyat is set to be delivered with a total development value of AED 100 billion and will cover 6.4 million square metres, equivalent to roughly 640 hectares.
The island-facing scheme includes an 8-kilometre waterfront with 5.6 kilometres of natural beaches, extensive public realm and a network of linked pathways designed for walking and cycling.
Largest marina in Abu Dhabi with 350 berths
The masterplan introduces what will be the largest marina in Abu Dhabi, providing capacity for 350 sailing boats and luxury yachts.
Officials said the renaming from “Marina Saadiyat” to “Marsa Saadiyat” underscores a deliberate return to maritime heritage while delivering high-end marine leisure infrastructure.
Community facilities, housing mix and population capacity
The development is planned to accommodate more than 58,000 residents across a mix of palatial homes, private villas, waterfront apartments and branded residences.
Supporting facilities will include a central landscaped park, neighbourhood green spaces, children’s play areas, community clubs with outdoor pools and sports courts, and on-site healthcare services.
Cultural district connections and major performance venue
A dedicated promenade will link Marsa Saadiyat directly to Saadiyat’s Cultural District, keeping museums and five-star hospitality within easy reach.
The scheme also includes a theatre district anchored by Dar Al Funun Abu Dhabi, a purpose-built venue expected to open in 2030 with seating capacity exceeding 6,000 for international productions and festivals.
Education, nature conservation and lifestyle amenities
Developers say the island will complement Saadiyat’s existing cultural and ecological assets, which include internationally recognised museums and protected natural habitats.
The masterplan cites proximity to established education institutions on the island and nearby — from early years through to university — and a one-kilometre retail and dining promenade with a yacht club and two luxury hotels.
Transport links, Etihad Rail station and island connections
Marsa Saadiyat will be integrated into a new road and tunnel network connecting it to Um Yafeenah Island, Al Reem Island and central Abu Dhabi, aimed at reducing travel times across the capital.
The plan also assigns an underground station for the national high-speed Etihad Rail network, and a modern bridge will connect the development to a new island being created by Aldar off Saadiyat’s coast.
Delivery timeline and market launch
Site preparation and primary infrastructure works are scheduled to begin in Q3 2026, with the first residential units due to go on sale in the second half of 2026.
Aldar executives and Abu Dhabi officials described the timing as part of a phased rollout intended to attract long-term capital and deliver a sustainable, high-quality urban environment.
Economic ambition and international positioning
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chair of the Department of Culture and Tourism — Abu Dhabi and chairman of Aldar, framed Marsa Saadiyat as the most ambitious chapter of Saadiyat Island’s masterplan.
Aldar’s chief executive said the project is designed to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s standing in the global luxury market and to provide a compelling offering for investors, residents and cultural visitors.
Marsa Saadiyat is presented as a strategic blend of maritime heritage, cultural adjacency and large-scale urban design that aims to expand Abu Dhabi’s waterfront living and leisure capacity.
With construction mobilising in the coming months and sales set for H2 2026, the development will be a major new landmark shaping the capital’s coastal skyline and visitor economy for years to come.