Second phase of Mina Zayed renovation project launched by DMT
Modon Properties and Aldar Properties will both be involved in the extensive renovation project
The second phase of a renovation plan to redevelop designated areas of the Mina Zayed area, and transform it into a new tourist, commercial and residential destination, has been launched by the Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).
According to a statement, Mina Zayed has served as the main Abu Dhabi port for over 40 years and is named after UAE’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed. Inaugurated in 1972, it is said to be one of the regional pioneers in the maritime industry and is said to have played an instrumental role in fortifying the emirate’s international trade.
As part of Phase One of the project, the masterplan has already been completed, as has the design for the new fish market, with construction already underway. Out of use outlets and stores in the wharf area have also been demolished, said the statement from DMT.
DMT notes that it has appointed Modon Properties to carry out the demolition of the Meena Plaza Towers in Mina Zayed, as well as redevelop designated areas in Mina Zayed.
“Mina Zayed, which has witnessed the incredible growth of the capital over the past few decades, resonates in the hearts of Abu Dhabi’s residents. We are confident that the redevelopment of Mina Zayed will further drive the social and economic progress of the emirate and will play an important role in achieving our wise leadership’s vision of cementing Abu Dhabi’s position as one of the best cities in the world,” said Hamad Al Mutawa, executive director of Operations Affairs at the DMT.
The project is said to span some three million sqm in Mina Zayed and will help foster trade and investment operations in the capital, as well as support the urban development of Abu Dhabi, while safeguarding the nation’s authentic identity and heritage, the statement explained.
Plans are also said to include a complete overhaul of some of the existing souks including the plant souk, as well as the establishment of a new fish market, fruit and vegetable market, and seasonal market.
According to DMT, Aldar Properties will play an active role in the urban regeneration project – it will develop prime land plots in Mina Zayed, spanning a gross floor area (GFA) of 1.5m sqm, as a sea front destination. The project is adjacent to a vibrant cultural hub and a logistics centre and is expected to form an integral part of Aldar’s future development plans, and is in line with its ongoing commitment to develop key destinations that contribute to Abu Dhabi’s long-term growth, the statement said.
DMT says that the redevelopment works will begin with the demolition of Meena Plaza Towers on November 27. A demolition company has been appointed and will adopt the highest safety and security standards. The demolition of the four towers, which comprise 144 floors, is estimated to last 10 seconds. The statement said that increased precautionary measures and procedures have been enforced, in collaboration with key strategic partners, to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors.
Modon’s director of Delivery, Ahmed Al Shaikh Al Zaabi commented, “We remain committed to the leadership’s vision in doing our part to transform Abu Dhabi into one of the world’s most appealing destinations through the urban development of the nation’s capital. We are proud to be appointed as one of the developers responsible for revitalising parts of the iconic Mina Zayed, including the fish and plant souk, as well as introducing a new seasonal market.”
