Look: UAE's oldest island to turn into residential paradise

People of the UAE will soon be able to live on an island with stunning beach views and roaming gazelles, while enjoying a high-end selection of retail shops and restaurants.

The Government of Umm Al Quwain announced on Tuesday a massive Dh2.47 billion development for Siniyah Island, the oldest island in the UAE that is home to rich nature, diverse wildlife and rare archeological sites.

Sheikh Rashid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mua'lla, Crown Prince of Umm Al Quwain, witnessed the signing of the first phase of Al Siniyah Island Development Project, which involves building a three-lane bridge that will connect the island to Ittihad road.

The two-way 2.5km bridge, which will cost Dh300 million and will be completed in the next 20 months, will make it easier for citizens and residents to enter the island, currently accessible only by boat. Set speed of 100km/hr, about 1km of the curved bridge will be over the water.

The first phase of the island development project also includes the construction of villas and two hotels, .

The massive development project, spanning over 30 million square feet, comes as part of the efforts to promote the emirate as a key tourist and commercial destination and drive development.

Upon completion, the island will house 300 luxurious waterfront villas and mansions, 250 town houses, 14 buildings with over 570 apartment units, two hotels, a wide array of shops, restaurants, recreational facilities and community centres. Around 80 villas will have their own private berths.

The estimated population for the first phase is 5,600. Once complete, the island will be home to 28,000 people.

Preserving the environment

Saud Faisal Al Gurg, Managing Director of Al Gurg Consultants, said the island will be a benchmark of low density, environmentally sensitive residential and coastal communities.

The island will be carved with 18km terrestrial trails that will enable visitors and residents to fully experience the island’s natural and cultural marvels.

Open to researchers and students, four trials will provide direct access to the mangroves, the wildlife (for a closer and direct view of rich assortment of gazelles, ostriches and birds), the island's rich archeological discoveries and community recreational facilities. Marine trails will also include mangrove and lagoon Kayak.