The document discusses the 2017 Cityscape Abu Dhabi Exhibition, which brings together real estate developers, investors, and professionals to showcase new projects in Abu Dhabi and the Middle East. More than 100 attendees presented their newest projects at the event. The exhibition also included a speaker series on topics related to real estate trends, the Abu Dhabi 2030 development plan, and improving construction processes. Several exciting new residential and commercial projects on display aimed to garner support, including luxury apartment and marina residence towers, as well as a new retail facility and mall expansion.

1. What You Need to Know
about the 2017 Cityscape
Abu Dhabi Exhibition
DR. EHSAN BAYAT

2. What You Need to Know about the 2017
Cityscape Abu Dhabi Exhibition
 In April, the 11th annual Cityscape Abu Dhabi highlighted some of the most exciting
new projects in the city. This event brings together developers, investors, government
representatives, and real estate professionals to look at the future of residential and
commercial property in Abu Dhabi. By attending, individuals gain access to exclusive
offers and the latest updates about projects in Abu Dhabi and other areas of the
Middle East. The exhibition is also a prime networking opportunity, offering a wide
range of local, regional, and international contacts.
 More than 100 developers, designers, and architects attended this year’s event to
showcase their newest projects. With increased development of free zones creating
more opportunities for real estate investors in Abu Dhabi, the climate of the
conference was one of excitement for the future.

3. Exploring the 2017 UAE Market at
Cityscape Talks
 One highlight of Cityscape Abu Dhabi is its Cityscape Talks program, which features free
speakers talking about a wide variety of topics, from maximizing personal investments in real
estate to analyzing likely market trends. Specific industry sessions focus on relevant topics for
different professionals, such as engineers, brokers, and architects, who are involved in real estate.
 The first day of this year’s Cityscape Abu Dhabi, Dr. Apostolos Kyriazis from the Abu Dhabi
University College of Engineering talked about the Abu Dhabi 2030 Plan and the Habitat III New
Urban Agenda, both of which deal with development of Abu Dhabi in the years to come. Other
talks during this first day looked at how to improve efficiency during the design and construction
processes and the benefits of escrow account regulations.
 During day two, attendees had the chance to dig deeper into the Abu Dhabi residential market
while also looking at the impact of foreign citizens on the city’s real estate industry. Robert
Jackson, the regional director of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), spoke about
the importance of adhering to international standards as a way of increasing confidence in the
Abu Dhabi market among investors from around the world.

4. The Exciting Projects on Display at
Cityscape Abu Dhabi
 At the heart of the exhibition is the opportunity for developers and other real
estate professionals to show off the work that they have completed in the
previous year and garner support for future visions. This year was no exception
with a number of exciting residential and commercial projects featured, including
the following:

5. 1. Al Jawhara Tower
 This luxury apartment building is located in the Jumeirah Triangle, one of the
most prominent locations in the city. With a unique blue-and-white façade, the
building will stand out beautifully from its surroundings. The completed project
will feature a swimming pool and gym, tennis and basketball courts, as well as a
supermarket, petrol station, and pharmacy.

6. 2. Fairmont Marine Residences
 One of the most ambitious projects is Fairmont Marina Residences, which is
located in Abu Dhabi’s Breakwater area. The building features 249 fully furnished
units and a design that celebrates the area’s Arabian heritage. The entire
structure resembles a large arch with beautiful towers that will offer stunning
views.

7. 3. Al Durrah Tower
 Constructed on Al Reem Island, Al Durrah Tower is a unique residential building
with a stylish postmodern design featuring green windows and geometric
metalwork along the side. The building boasts 42 levels and is surrounded by
beautifully designed gardens.

8. 4. Saadiyat Lagoons
 Designed to blend in with its natural surroundings, Saadiyat Lagoons provides
families with idyllic living quarters on Saadiyat Island. The final community will be
divided into five distinct neighborhoods, each with their own shopping areas,
schools, and mosques. An intricate web of paths for pedestrians, bikes, and
more will promote a healthy lifestyle and make travel between the
neighborhoods very easy.

9. 5. Marina Mall
 While the Marina Mall is already a popular attraction in Abu Dhabi, a new
extension will double its size. The mall will expand to the north with a business
tower and to the south with new apartments. In addition, the developer is
creating a new food island plaza, additional retail space, and an exciting
entertainment city.

10. 6. The Souq
 A new retail facility in Al Ain, The Souq embodies the traditional design of an
Emirati marketplace. Visitors will find a Friday night market, livestock space, and
heritage retail space, as well as square footage for education and entertainment,
and even a veterinary practice.

11. 8. The Wave Tower
 Located on Al Reem Island along the Marina waterfront promenade, The Wave
Tower has a unique, curved façade that reflects its water-based name. The 23-
story structure features a roof garden that provides sweeping views of the island
and the water, as well as a luxury swimming pool.