The masters of island development are at it again, this time with a simplified, if not more functional  island project. The United Arab Emirates  is currently planning developed of Al Reem Island, a natural island in the city of Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. The island, when completed will be located less than a kilometer away from downtown Abu Dhabi, and only 20 minutes from the capital’s international airport.

Al Reem Island much like the island projects in Dubai is a waterfront development.  Abu Dhabi is hoping to duplicate the success of island projects in the larger city of Dubai. Al Reem Island will offer a combiation of combination of urban as well as recreational areas.  

Spread across 6.5 million sq. mt., the development holds the distinction of being the largest in Abu Dhabi. In addition, it is also the first development of its kind in the region to be executed on a natural island. The project, which is being completed in three phases, first began in 2006.  Completion of the final phase of the project is not expected until 2023. Upon completion, Al Reem Island will have a total built-up area of 110 million sq. ft. and will serve as home to over 100,000 residents.

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