Department of Municipalities and Transport has partnered with Eagle Hills to transform waterfronts and public spaces across Abu Dhabi into vibrant community destinations.
The new agreement was signed through the Urban Planning and Permits Centre, also known as UPPC. Officials say the partnership aims to improve liveability and create more engaging urban experiences for residents and visitors across the emirate.
The initiative will focus on activating public spaces, mixed-use developments, and waterfront areas through cultural, tourism, wellness, and family-focused activities. Authorities believe the programme will help strengthen Abu Dhabi’s long-term urban development goals while improving quality of life.
Under the partnership, the Department of Municipalities and Transport and Eagle Hills will work together to explore development opportunities across several key areas in Abu Dhabi. The project aims to turn public locations into active social destinations rather than spaces used only for infrastructure or transport purposes.
Officials confirmed that the programme will include cultural events, seasonal festivals, sports activities, wellness programmes, family entertainment, entrepreneurship initiatives, and public experiences designed to encourage community interaction.
The agreement is part of a wider strategy to make Abu Dhabi more attractive for both residents and international visitors. Government officials say cities around the world are increasingly focusing on liveability and public engagement as key parts of urban planning.
The initiative is also expected to support tourism growth and economic activity by creating destinations that encourage people to spend more time in public areas. Authorities believe this approach can help local businesses while also improving the social and cultural atmosphere of the city.
Abdulla Mohamed Al Blooshi said the partnership reflects Abu Dhabi’s vision of creating stronger community connections through better public spaces.
He explained that the goal is to make developments more vibrant and enjoyable for people living in and visiting Abu Dhabi. According to Al Blooshi, the initiative will help transform urban areas into integrated destinations where residents can relax, socialise, and take part in community activities.
He added that activating public spaces is becoming an important part of modern city planning. Officials believe successful urban development now depends not only on buildings and roads but also on creating places where communities can gather and interact.
Hisham Ibrahim said the company is proud to support a project that focuses on experiences and community engagement instead of traditional development alone.
He noted that the partnership shares a common goal of creating lively destinations that improve the city’s global image while also supporting residents and visitors.
According to Eagle Hills, the project will help strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading international destination known for tourism, culture, and lifestyle experiences.
Urban planning experts say public spaces and waterfront developments are playing a bigger role in modern city growth strategies. Cities are increasingly investing in parks, pedestrian-friendly areas, waterfront attractions, and community activities to improve health, tourism, and social wellbeing.
Abu Dhabi has already introduced several major projects aimed at improving liveability in recent years. The emirate continues to invest heavily in tourism, entertainment, cultural attractions, and residential communities as part of its economic diversification strategy.
Officials say the new partnership also supports broader UAE efforts to develop integrated mixed-use destinations. These projects combine residential, commercial, tourism, and leisure experiences within one connected urban environment.
The focus on waterfront activation is expected to play a major role in future development plans. Waterfronts are often considered valuable social and tourism spaces because they attract visitors, support businesses, and improve public recreation opportunities.
Authorities believe the collaboration between government agencies and private developers could become a model for future urban projects in Abu Dhabi. The initiative highlights a growing trend toward partnerships that focus on long-term community value instead of only construction and infrastructure delivery.
The Department of Municipalities and Transport said the project aligns with Abu Dhabi’s wider goals related to sustainability, destination development, tourism growth, and stronger community engagement.
Officials have not yet announced the first locations or timelines for the planned activations. However, more details about upcoming programmes and public events are expected to be revealed in the coming months as the partnership moves forward.
