Arada has announced that Madar, its leisure destination located in the heart of its Aljada development, will open to the public on 27 February. Madar is said to contain a cluster of family-friendly attractions that are spread around a landscaped 600,000sqft park.
From the Arabic word for ‘path’ or ‘orbit’, the name Madar represents the free movement of people around the site, and also reflects the original design by Zaha Hadid Architects, which incorporates a striking series of elliptical buildings surrounding a central point, a statement from the developer said.
Arada notes that the first phase of Madar will host a calendar of engaging events that will draw UAE residents to Aljada every weekend. Arada says visitors can expect live performances from artists, sportspeople and musicians.
“This is the first opportunity for members of the public to experience a taste of Aljada, a project that is truly transformational for Sharjah. This destination is a new place for families, for lovers of culture, for those who are looking for excitement and for those who are seeking to learn. We want the Sharjah community to be a part of Aljada’s progress, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to Madar,” said HE Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, chairman of Arada.
Madar is said to represent the first area of Aljada that is completed. The developer notes that it is free to enter and offers a variety of attractions.
HRH Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal, Vice Chairman of Arada added, “The launch of Madar at Aljada is an important step in our mission to build a sustainable and smart city that represents a new future for Sharjah. With more than 5,000 trees planted in this area alone, Madar shows how Aljada is set to become one of the greenest destinations in the region.”
The centerpiece of Madar is said to be the Aljada Discovery Centre, which was designed by Zaha Hadid Architects. The elliptical building is said to showcase all the elements of the city’s masterplan, as well as providing potential homeowners with an opportunity to find out what living in Aljada is all about.
The developer says Madar will be completed over three phases, occupying over 25 football fields in size (1.9m sqft). It is billed as the focal point of Aljada and will be defined by lush green space and many water features, while being fully walkable, even in the summer months.