News October 1, 2018

New waterfront development to create UAE's own riviera

Abu Dhabi-based developer Imkan has announced ambitious plans to create a riviera destination for the UAE, utilising an untapped 30km of seashore between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. 

The developer revealed its outlook for the project at the 2018 Cityscape, outlining how the land bank has the potential to provide an 'authentic cultural, living, and tourism experience', while paying homage to the UAE's heritage.

Sahel Al Emarat (Riviera of the Emirates) is a vision too provide a living and resting space away from the bustle of the city, aiming to attract residents and tourists alike. 

First steps towards its plans in creating a riviera destination in the UAE, is a new coastal development called ALJurf, a masterplanned community that aims to blend nature, culture, and architecture. 

Construction on the 370-hectare project, that will boast up to 3.4km of beachfront, is scheduled to begin in 2019. 

Once completed the development will comprise three distinct districts: AlJurf Gardens, Jiwar Al Qasr, and Marsa AlJurf - each with its own defining architectural characteristics as well as a range of ammenities. 

AlJurf will feature two marinas, private berths, a town centre, hotels, retail outlets, a wellness resort and clinic, as well as serviced apartments and villas. 

The concept behind AlJurf was showcased through IMKAN Box, the developer's own lab, atelier, and creative studio, which brings together technology, design, and research in order to showcase the developer's various projects.

The architects behind the masterplan have not yet been revealed.

Imkan has also, earlier this year, revealed that London-based architecture practice, Heatherwick Studio, run by Thomas Heatherwick, is set to design a boutique hotel development in Abu Dhabi that utilises clustered forms and courtyards.

This article was originally published on Middle East Architect in October 2018. Read the original article.