The 50 upcoming mega-projects in the United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to establish itself as a global leader in innovation, architecture and sustainable development. Huge projects are currently under way, aimed at transforming the urban landscape and attracting investors and tourists. Here is an overview of the 50 most impressive upcoming mega-projects in the country.
Abu Dhabi
Etihad Rail: A rail network linking the Emirates
Etihad Rail is one of the most eagerly awaited projects in the UAE. This rail network will link 11 cities across the seven emirates by 2030. It will facilitate the transport of passengers and freight, improving connectivity and reducing road congestion.
eSports Island: An island dedicated to video games
Located on Al Raha Creek, eSports Island will be the world’s first island entirely dedicated to video games. Featuring a luxury hotel, state-of-the-art gaming facilities and professional training centres, this $280 million project promises to be a must-visit destination for esports enthusiasts.
Natural History Museum: A museum where you can explore the history of the Earth
Scheduled to open in 2025 on Saadiyat Island, this museum will trace the 13.8 billion-year history of the universe through interactive exhibitions and a scientific research centre.
Zayed National Museum: A tribute to the founder of the UAE
This iconic museum will pay tribute to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the history of the Emirates. Designed by Foster + Partners, it will feature a 123-metre tower and several themed galleries.
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: A museum of modern art
Designed by Frank Gehry, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi will feature 28 galleries and 23,000 m² of exhibition space. It will complement the cultural offering on Saadiyat Island.
teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi: An immersive experience
This interactive arts centre promises a fully immersive experience through exhibitions that engage all five senses.
The Ritz-Carlton Reserve: A haven of luxury
Scheduled to open on Ramhan Island in 2029, this hotel complex will offer spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf and an exclusive setting for affluent travellers.
Traditional Souk: A leisure area inspired by our heritage
This 245,000 m² development will feature a traditional market, leafy courtyards and a seaside hotel complex.
Abu Dhabi Velodrome: State-of-the-art sports facilities
Featuring a Category 1 UCI cycle track, this velodrome is set to open in 2025 to host international competitions.
Louvre Abu Dhabi Residences: Living at the heart of art
This residential complex will offer 400 luxury flats in the immediate vicinity of the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Dubai
Palm Jebel Ali: An island twice the size of Palm Jumeirah
This monumental project will comprise seven interconnected islands, 80 hotels and a wide range of leisure facilities.
Al Maktoum International Airport Expansion: The world’s largest airport
Dubai South Airport is expected to reach an annual capacity of 260 million passengers by 2050, with the first phase due to be completed in 2030.
Dubai Metro Blue Line: An improved transport network
Scheduled to open in 2029, the Blue Line will link several key areas, improving urban mobility.
Dubai Loop: A revolutionary transport system
Inspired by Elon Musk’s concept, this ultra-fast mode of transport will connect the most densely populated urban areas.
Seaglider: A hybrid between a boat and an aeroplane
This revolutionary electric vehicle will connect Dubai and Abu Dhabi at a speed of 290 km/h at a reasonable cost.
Dubai Green Spine: A major environmental project
This project aims to transform Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road into a sustainable corridor featuring green spaces and cycle paths.
Therme Dubai: A futuristic wellness resort
This 2 billion dirham wellness complex will feature an indoor botanical garden, a waterfall and thermal pools.
Jebel Ali Beach: Dubai’s longest public beach
This 6.6 km project will provide recreational areas and viewing platforms.
Burj Azizi: An iconic skyscraper
Scheduled for completion in 2028, this building will comprise a vertical shopping centre, a 7-star hotel and luxury apartments.
Dubai Islands: A new vision for the seafront
Formerly known as Deira Islands, this project will comprise 80 hotels, beach clubs and exclusive residential complexes.
Sharjah and other emirates
Aljada Sharjah: A new city
This development will include hotels, schools, a shopping centre and an entertainment complex designed by Zaha Hadid.
Wynn Resorts Ras Al Khaimah: A luxury casino and resort
This multi-billion-dollar project on Marjan Island will include a hotel, a shopping centre and the UAE’s first casino.
Sobha Siniya Island, Umm Al Quwain: A residential paradise
This project will transform Siniya Island into a high-end residential and tourist complex.
These mega-projects demonstrate the United Arab Emirates’ ambition to position itself as a leading global destination, whether in terms of transport, culture, leisure or sustainable development. By 2030, these infrastructure projects will completely redefine the experience of living and travelling in the country.
