Details of the massive new government and economic district for the capital of the United Arab Emirates was unveiled today Sunday 19 April in the presence of His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

Work starts on the 4,900 hectare Capital City District in 2012 which, once completed, will serve as the government and economic centre for the UAE. It is planned as a sustainable, mixed-use city for 370,000 residents as well as federal government buildings, major universities, hospitals, embassies and international institutions.

“The Capital City District represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a truly authentic and sustainable modern Arab capital,” said Falah Al Ahbabi, General Manager of the Urban Planning Council. The district, close to Abu Dhabi International Airport and Mohammed bin Zayed City, is planned to be linked by grand boulevards, shaded streets, open space and a world class public transport system.

“Abu Dhabi, like other markets, may be feeling the effects of a slowdown but the measured approach to development and the full backing of the government means there are excellent growth prospects and a positive future outlook here in Abu Dhabi,” said Rohan Marwaha, Managing Director of the Cityscape series of events organised by IIR Exhibitions.

“Nevertheless, we can expect to see greater emphasis in future on regulatory frameworks, transparency and, perhaps, more time to sit back and carefully evolve strategies for the future,” he added. “Indeed Cityscape Abu Dhabi, our first event of 2009, will serve as the benchmark for the industry as we move further into the year.”