Aldar and the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) have announced a landmark public-private partnership to deliver new integrated communities spanning more than 20 million square metres across five strategic locations in Abu Dhabi.
Industry sources added that this collaboration introduces a coordinated framework wherein DMT contributes strategic land and Aldar serves as the master developer to deliver integrated, sustainable communities.
The partnership focuses on creating high-quality, walkable neighborhoods that blend residential, retail, and educational offerings with lifestyle amenities. Key features include:
- Integrated Living: Communities designed with green public spaces and seamless connectivity to Abu Dhabi’s wider transport networks.
- Proven Expertise: Developments will leverage Aldar’s track record in delivering iconic destinations like Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and Al Raha Beach.
Through this alliance, Aldar and DMT are setting a new benchmark for urban excellence, directly supporting the emirate’s broader strategic priorities and enhancing the overall quality of life for its residents.
The partnership was inaugurated during the Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit (ADIS) 2026 in the presence of His Excellency Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, His Excellency Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport – Abu Dhabi, and His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Aldar. The agreement was signed by His Excellency Abdulla Mohamed Al Blooshi, Director General of the Urban Planning and Permits Centre at the Department of Municipalities and Transport, and Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Aldar.
Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Aldar, said: “This strategic partnership marks an important step in shaping Abu Dhabi’s next phase of urban growth. As the emirate continues to attract residents, businesses, and investment, there is a growing need for thoughtfully planned destinations that expand housing choice across multiple market segments while enhancing quality of life. Through this collaboration with DMT, we will shape communities that will meet evolving market needs and support the emirate’s long-term development ambitions. The scale and breadth of these projects reflect Aldar’s strong conviction in the long-term fundamentals of Abu Dhabi’s real estate market and our continued confidence in the emirate’s economic growth trajectory.”
His Excellency Abdulla Mohamed Al Blooshi, Director General of the Urban Planning and Permits Centre at the Department of Municipalities and Transport said: This partnership with Aldar represents a new model for Abu Dhabi’s urban development, one that brings together strategic master planning, private-sector execution capability, and government oversight to deliver transformational growth. By collaborating with a trusted partner like Aldar, DMT can accelerate the delivery of the housing and mixed-use communities Abu Dhabi needs, while maintaining the highest standards of planning, sustainability, and quality of life.”
Core Development Pillars
The partnership centers on creating integrated, walkable neighborhoods across five strategic locations: Muwaylih, Mussafah, Al Zahiya, Al Faya, and the debut activation of Al Mihsinah Island.
- Integrated Lifestyle Communities: Each destination will feature a curated mix of residential, retail, and educational offerings. These “lifestyle-focused” developments prioritize green public spaces and community gathering points to foster a deep sense of belonging.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Strategically positioned along major road networks, these communities ensure seamless integration with Abu Dhabi’s wider transport infrastructure.
- Waterfront Innovation: The activation of Al Mihsinah Island will introduce a landmark waterfront community, blending natural coastal surroundings with wellness-centric residential design.
Advancing Housing Accessibility
A cornerstone of this alliance is the significant expansion of the Value Housing Programme. This initiative aims to diversify housing choices for both sale and rent, serving residents across various market segments:
- Expanded Inventory: The agreement builds on the commitment to deliver 9,000 residential units within integrated communities in Mohamed Bin Zayed City and Baniyas.
- Strategic Alignment: The model directly supports the Emirate’s urban strategy by prioritizing long-term liveability and housing affordability within a coordinated economic framework.
Through this strategic synergy, Aldar and DMT are not merely building structures but are engineering a sustainable model for urban excellence that will shape the capital’s landscape for generations.
