Within the framework of one of the most successful public-private partnerships between Al Barakah International Investment (BII) and Abu Dhabi Municipality, BII today announced the continuous progress of their joint waterfront development, Al Qana. BII affirmed that the project is proceeding as planned and will be open to visitors in Q4 2020, offering them an unparalleled modern lifestyle experience in Abu Dhabi.
Al Qana is developing seven key districts spanning over 2.4km of scenic and picturesque waterfront walkways. The project offers a unique collection of attractions from waterside eateries, cinema experiences, the Middle East’s largest aquarium, yacht marina, first-of-its-kind wellness hub, first to the UAE VR park, kids’ action zone, outdoor skatepark, and landscaped community spaces that are aimed at encouraging social interaction.
Al Qana is located on the historic natural Khor Al Maqta, the waterway bordering the mainland in close proximity to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Adjacent to the neighbouring five-star hotels, the development is in a prime location for both residents and tourists.
Al Qana’s features are aimed at encouraging social interaction and providing a healthy, balanced lifestyle, and contributing to the happiness of residents and visitors. This aspect of the development is essential as happiness and well-being rankings are rising in importance as measure of a city’s health, prosperity and success. To ensure that quality lifestyle, Al Qana is also focused towards recreation and fun for all, with over 50% of the leasable area being assigned to entertainment. To underline the significant steps taken towards completion of the project, Al Qana has brought on board a key partner, The National Aquarium of Abu Dhabi, which will be the largest of its kind in the Middle East.
Moataz Mashal, Managing Director of Al Barakah International Investment said in a statement: “In line with the capital’s vision for 2030, this new landmark destination will play a key role in supporting the government to realise its vision of enhancing Abu Dhabi’s status as one the world’s most popular destinations for business, leisure, lifestyle and entertainment. Al Qana will offer a new lifestyle for residents through exciting dining destinations and convenient facilities, whilst also being an attractive place for tourists to visit, in close proximity to many of the most famous landmarks in the capital.”
Stuart Gissing, General Manager of Al Qana said in a statement: “Our distinctive districts concept and ideal location are already attracting major regional and international concepts, including food and beverage, leisure and entertainment brands looking to become part of the city’s next waterfront lifestyle hub. Since the launch of the project, our team of experts have been working closely with the authorities and our partners to ensure a unique, vibrant mix of complementary commercial services and facilities that bolster the value to investors, tenants and customers.”
He added: “We have been looking for the best experts in their fields and made key hires as we remain committed to create a quality multi-excitement destination that will keep pace with ever growing need to offer entertainment and memorable experiences at every level, with the requirements of visitors, whilst also reflecting Abu Dhabi’s multicultural society.”
Al Qana is a landmark that will be positioned prominently in the social fabric of Abu Dhabi, nearby the heart of the new city. It will also be close to other major developments and attractions such as Warner Bros, Ferrari World and Louvre Abu Dhabi, with a direct eye-line view of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which attracts millions of visitors a year.
Al Qana is set to become a significant part of the Abu Dhabi landscape and is aimed at adding to the economic and touristic mix. The developer and its partners took additional time to enhance the project with unique features and world-leading design to ensure it is responding to the needs and requirements of local residents and visitors. In this regard, key executives have been brought in to manage the project, to provide world-class expertise and deliver a project that benefits all stakeholders.
