Aldar unveils $11bn Fahid Island project in Abu Dhabi

June 17, 2025

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Dubai Market Trends & News

Aldar Properties, one of Abu Dhabi’s largest listed developers, has revealed the master plan for Fahid Island, a transformative natural island set to become the capital’s next premier lifestyle destination. With a gross development value of over AED 40 billion ($10.9 billion), the island spans 3.4 million square meters and will offer a walkable, wellness-focused community featuring luxury residences, cultural attractions, and vibrant public spaces.

In this blog, we explore what makes Fahid Island a landmark development for Abu Dhabi, from its lush beachfront and retail promenades to the upcoming super-premium British school, and the launch of its first residential phase, Fahid Beach Residences.

Discover Fahid Island Abu Dhabi’s Newest Destination

Fahid Island in Abu Dhabi is set to become a premium coastal wellness hub, blending nature, recreation, and modern convenience. Strategically located between Saadiyat Island and Yas Island, it spans 3.4 million sqm, the island offers over 4.6 km of beachfront, 15 km of shaded walkways, and dedicated green zones for active and community living.

Residents will enjoy direct access to a 2 km waterfront promenade filled with cafés, restaurants, art galleries, and concept stores. Coral Drive, the island’s boutique boulevard, will feature retail outlets, public art, a ballet school, and vibrant social spaces. For outdoor lovers, activities like kite surfing, paddleboarding, night swimming, and volleyball are all part of the experience.

With areas like Coral Drive and Palmerie offering shopping, dining, and entertainment, Fahid Island truly redefines walkable, wellness-focused living in the capital.

A Super-Premium British School Coming to Fahid Island

A major highlight of the Fahid Island development in Abu Dhabi is the introduction of a top-tier educational institution. Aldar’s education division has officially partnered with King’s College School, Wimbledon to open the British school’s first regional campus on Fahid Island, making it a true family-friendly lifestyle destination.
The announcement reinforces the island’s unique positioning beyond just luxury residences. Jonathan Emery, CEO of Aldar Development, stated “The quality of the school will say this is not a normal residential project, there’s something special going on here.”

With King’s College School’s reputation for academic excellence, this addition brings even more value to both investors and future residents of Fahid Beach Residences by Aldar.

Introducing Fahid Beach Residences by Aldar

Fahid Beach Residences marks the first residential release within the $11 billion Fahid Island development in Abu Dhabi. This premium coastal enclave features seven mid-rise buildings, each offering approximately 65 upscale units. One-bedroom apartments start from $1 million, offering private beach access, serene mangrove views, and unmatched proximity to lush open spaces and waterfront promenades.

The residences are part of a larger master plan that will bring over 6,000 homes to the island. As Jonathan Emery explained, “The first phase of development will be just over 3 years. 2029 will be the first opportunity for buyers to get their keys for the first phases. And then in a further three, four years, we will finish the island.”

He added, “Al Fahid Island presents a robust pipeline of development activity for our region,” noting the growing international appeal of the destination: “We expect strong interest from global buyers, it’s incredibly attractive to people from all over the world.”

Abu Dhabi’s Real Estate Market is on the Rise

Abu Dhabi’s property market continues to show strong momentum. In Q1 2025, the emirate recorded over AED 25.3 billion in property transactions, marking a 34.5% increase compared to the same period last year, according to the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC) .

Off-plan sales in April saw a 75% monthly jump, as reported by EFG Hermes, reflecting rising investor confidence and increasing demand for new developments, especially in prime locations like Fahid Island. Meanwhile, residential sale prices rose 11% year-on-year, according to Cushman & Wakefield Core, further establishing the capital as a high-potential market for both regional and international investors.

Aldar Properties accounted for the largest off-plan market share, contributing 70 per cent of off-plan activity in April. The announcement of a Disneyland Abu Dhabi theme park on Yas Island has further supported the property market. “Disney clearly had an enormous positive impact on the UAE and Abu Dhabi, primarily. It's just increased people's understanding of Abu Dhabi," Mr Emery said.

With world-class entertainment, premium education, and luxury coastal living all converging, Fahid Beach Residences are launching at the perfect time, at the heart of Abu Dhabi’s most exciting growth story.

FAQs

Fahid Island is a natural island located between Saadiyat Island and Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. It is being developed into a new coastal lifestyle destination by Aldar.
 

Yes. With a total development value of $11 billion, a premium coastal location, and rising demand driven by projects like Disneyland Abu Dhabi, Fahid Island is considered a high-potential investment for both capital appreciation and rental income.
 

The first launch, Fahid Beach Residences by Aldar, offers one-bedroom apartments starting from $1 million. These units come with private beach access and are part of a low-density, wellness-driven community.
 

The first residential phase, including Fahid Beach Residences, is under development. Handover is expected in 2029, with additional phases rolling out over the following three to four years.
 

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