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A world-class surfing attraction, a velodrome and a sprawling urban park are among the features included in a major new development for Abu Dhabi
Tom Anstey | Planet Attractions | 23 Jun 2023
Surf Abu Dhabi will be a component of the development which has been described as a first-of-its-kind for the city Credit: Modon Properties
Abu Dhabi is set to undertake a major development of Hudayriyat Island, with a new masterplan revealing a world-class surfing attraction, a giant urban park and a velodrome among 16km of new beaches and 53.5km (33 miles) of new coastline.
Just over half the size of Abu Dhabi Island, the project represents a major urban expansion for the UAE capital and is a first of its kind for the city in terms of size and area.
Covering 51 million sq m (538 million sq ft), Hudayriyat will offer elite leisure and sports facilities, as well as residential offerings focused on sustainability.
Set to open at the end of 2023, Surf Abu Dhabi is set to be the biggest and most advanced artificial wave facility in the world.
Working in partnership with Kelly Slater Wave Co on the project, the landmark destination will offer a number of record-breaking firsts, including the world’s longest artificial ride, biggest barrel and largest man-made wave pool.
Not only will Surf Abu Dhabi act as a tourist attraction, but it will also be capable of hosting major international surf events, as well as develop the region’s surfing community.
Joining Surf Abu Dhabi in 2025 will be Velodrome Abu Dhabi - the first UCI Category 1 indoor cycling track in the region, suitable for international championships. In addition to an indoor racing track, there will also be a 600m (1,968sq ft) cycling ramp winding around the outer walls, offering 360 degree views of the Abu Dhabi skyline.
Covering more than 2.25 million sq m (24.2 million sq ft), an urban park is included in the masterplan and will be the largest in the UAE.
Focussed on nature, the destination will feature an elevated cycling path, an eco-tourism platform and a mangrove walk. It will also feature eco-farming, F&B and playgrounds.
“The Hudayriyat Island development project is a milestone in Abu Dhabi’s journey of innovation and progress, as it embodies the city’s futuristic vision for sustainable urban planning, building vibrant communities, and developing a diversified economy that boosts the emirate’s competitiveness in all fields,” said Jassem Bu Ataba Al Zaabi, chairman of the Department of Finance, Abu Dhabi and chairman of Modon Properties, which is behind the masterplan.
Over the course of the next 18 months, Modon Properties will handle construction of infrastructure enabling Phase One of the development.
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