The 50 megaprojects to come in the United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to position itself as a world leader in innovation, architecture and sustainable development. Huge projects are underway to transform the urban landscape and attract investors and tourists. Here's a roundup of the country's 50 most impressive upcoming megaprojects.
Abu Dhabi
Etihad Rail: A rail network linking the Emirates
Etihad Rail is one of the UAE's most eagerly awaited projects. This rail network will link 11 cities across the seven emirates by 2030. It will facilitate passenger and freight transport, improving connectivity and reducing road congestion.
eSports Island: An island dedicated to video games
Located at Al Raha Creek, eSports Island will be the world's first island entirely dedicated to video games. With a luxurious hotel, state-of-the-art gaming facilities and professional training areas, this $280 million project promises to be a must-see destination for e-sports enthusiasts.
Natural History Museum: exploring the history of the Earth
Planned for 2025 on Saadiyat Island, this museum will tell the 13.8 billion-year story of the universe, with interactive exhibits and a scientific research center.
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 thematic 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 art center promises total immersion with exhibitions based on the five senses.
Ritz-Carlton Reserve : A haven of luxury
Planned for 2029 on Ramhan Island, this resort will offer spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf and an exclusive setting for wealthy travelers.
Traditional Souk: A heritage-inspired leisure zone
The 245,000 m² project will feature a traditional market, lush courtyards and a beachfront resort.
Velodrome Abu Dhabi: A state-of-the-art sports facility
With a UCI category 1 cycle track, this velodrome will open in 2025 to host international competitions.
Louvre Abu Dhabi Residences: Living at the heart of art
This residential complex will offer 400 luxury apartments 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 include seven connected 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 completed in 2030.
Dubai Metro Blue Line: An improved transport network
Scheduled to go into service in 2029, the Blue Line will link several key areas, improving urban mobility.
Dubai Loop: Revolutionary transport
Inspired by Elon Musk's concept, this ultra-fast mode of transport will connect the densest urban areas.
Seaglider: A hybrid between boat and plane
This revolutionary electric vehicle will link Dubai and Abu Dhabi at a speed of 290 km/h at moderate cost.
Dubai Green Spine: A major ecological project
The project aims to transform Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road into a sustainable corridor with green spaces and bicycle paths.
Therme Dubai: A futuristic wellness resort
This 2 billion dirham wellness complex will include an indoor botanical garden, a waterfall and thermal pools.
Jebel Ali Beach: Dubai's longest public beach
This 6.6 km project will offer recreational areas and observation platforms.
Burj Azizi: An iconic skyscraper
Scheduled for completion in 2028, the building will include a vertical shopping mall, a 7-star hotel and luxury residences.
Dubai Islands: A new vision of the waterfront
Formerly Deira Islands, the project will include 80 hotels, beach clubs and exclusive residential complexes.
Sharjah and other emirates
Aljada Sharjah: A new city
The development will include hotels, schools, a shopping mall 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 mall and the UAE's first casino.
Sobha Siniya Island Umm Al Quwain: A residential paradise
The project will transform Siniya Island into a high-end residential and tourist complex.
These mega-projects demonstrate the UAE's ambition to position itself as a leading global destination, whether in terms of transport, culture, leisure or sustainable development. By 2030, these infrastructures will completely redefine the country's living and traveling experience.
