Abu Dhabi unveils $11b wellness island project

Abu Dhabi is investing $11 billion in a new residential island designed around health and wellbeing, with developers aiming to create one of the world’s first large-scale communities built entirely on wellness principles.

The project, known as Fahid Island, is being developed by government-owned Aldar Development and is scheduled for full completion by 2029. Located between Yas Island and Saadiyat Island, the master-planned community will feature more than 6,000 homes across a 2.7 million-square-metre site.

Developers say the island’s design prioritises healthier lifestyles through walkable neighbourhoods, extensive green spaces and outdoor recreation. A 10-kilometre central park will include running tracks, cycling routes and wellness facilities, while an 11-kilometre coastline will be connected by a 15-kilometre network of pedestrian paths, most of them shaded.

The project will also include retail areas, beach clubs, water sports facilities and a new campus of King’s College School Wimbledon, due to open in 2028.

Aldar said the island has become the first community in the world to receive a three-star Fitwel certification, an international healthy-building standard that evaluates developments based on physical activity, mental wellbeing, nutrition and other health indicators.

Officials said the project reflects Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to expand sustainable urban development while capitalise on growing demand for wellness-focused real estate and lifestyle destinations. Apartment prices are expected to start from around AED 1.9 million ($517,000).