Major surf park included in Abu Dhabi’s Hudayriyat Island master plan

A major new development in Abu Dhabi includes world-class surf spots, a racing circuit and an expansive urban park




Tom Anstey | Planet Attractions | June 23, 2023

Abu Dhabi Surf Center will be part of the development, which is being described as the first of its kind in the city Image credit: Modon Properties

Abu Dhabi is set for a major development of Hudayriyat Island, with a new master plan that will create a world-class surfing spot, a huge urban park and a racing car amidst 16 kilometers of new beaches and 53.5 kilometers (33 miles) of new coastline field.

Just over half the size of Abu Dhabi Island, the project represents a major urban expansion for the UAE capital and the first project of its kind in the city in terms of size and area.

Spanning 51 million square meters (538 million square feet), Hudayriyat will offer elite leisure and sports facilities, as well as sustainable residential offerings.

Set to open in late 2023, Abu Dhabi Surf Center will be the largest and most advanced artificial wave facility in the world.

Partnering with Kelly Slater Wave Co on the project, the landmark destination will set a number of record-breaking firsts, including the world’s longest man-made slide, largest barrel and largest man-made wave pool.

Surf Abu Dhabi will not only be a tourist attraction, but will also be able to host major international surfing events and grow the surfing community in the region.

The Abu Dhabi Velodrome will join Surf Abu Dhabi in 2025, the region’s first UCI Category 1 indoor cycling track, suitable for international championships. As well as the indoor track, a 600m (1,968 sq ft) bike ramp winds its way around the façade, offering 360-degree views of the Abu Dhabi skyline.

The master plan includes an urban park of more than 2.25 million square meters (24.2 million square feet), which will be the largest in the UAE.

The nature-themed destination features elevated bike paths, an ecotourism platform and a mangrove walk. It will also feature ecological farming, dining and playgrounds.

“The Hudayriyat Island development is a milestone in Abu Dhabi’s journey of innovation and progress, as it embodies the city’s future vision for sustainable urban planning, building vibrant communities and developing a diversified economy, thereby enhancing the emirate’s reputation in various areas. competitiveness in the field,” said Jassem Bu Ataba Al Zaabi, chairman of Abu Dhabi’s Ministry of Finance and chairman of Modon Properties, which is behind the master plan.

Over the next 18 months, Modon Properties will be responsible for building the infrastructure to support the first phase of the development.