Jubail Island Investment Company (JIIC) has awarded an AED50+ million marine works contract for Jubail Island to National Marine Dredging Company.
Works on the eight-month-long marine channel package have already started. The scope comprises more than seven kilometres of widening and enhancing existing waterways designed to improve overall waterfront living experience, restore water circulation to previously stressed mangrove forests and to support the propagation of new forests. The contract also includes the planting of thousands of new mangrove trees.
Upon completion, the marine works will enhance the natural waterfront surrounding Jubail Island, dramatically improving the experience for residents and visitors and, most importantly will enhance environmental biodiversity of Jubail Island.
In May 2019, JIIC appointed Gulf Contractors Company (GCC) to execute enabling works for the AED5 billion project that are scheduled for completion in January 2020.
Speaking on the occasion, Richard Russell, Chief Operations Officer of Lead Development – the development management firm overseeing Jubail Island, said: “With enabling and marine works having commenced on the island, we are well on track to hand over plots as early as mid-2021. The timely delivery of this showcase project as per the highest construction and environmental standards is our utmost priority.”
He added: “Abu Dhabi government has taken proactive steps to support local biodiversity and protect the environment against the effects of climate change through rehabilitating existing mangrove areas. On Jubail Island, we will spare no effort to ensure that our marine works bolster this national objective through safeguarding this pristine ecosystem.
Poised to become Abu Dhabi’s most sought-after residential sanctuary for wellness and nature enthusiasts, Jubail Island spans 400 hectares and will comprise a mix of serviced plots, high-end and mid-range properties, community facilities, an office park, as well as retail and F&B outlets.
Set to feature six villages – Marfa Al Jubail, Nad Al Dhabi, Seef Al Jubail, Ain Al Maha, Souk Al Jubail and Bed’a Al Jubail, Jubail Island is strategically located between Yas Island, Saadiyat Island and Abu Dhabi city, just 10 minutes away from the Abu Dhabi Corniche and a 50-minute drive from Dubai Marina. With plots available for sale since April 2019, the attractive investment zone offers easy access to several key attractions in the UAE capital.
With a Pearl Rating from Abu Dhabi’s Estidama certification system, the project is set to significantly enhance the island’s natural ecosystem through planting new mangrove forests, as well as adding an extensive canal network and other new marine habitats that will provide an ideal home to populations of migratory birds, fish, sea turtles and gazelles. The development will also boast generous outdoor areas and include parks, hiking paths, kayaking stations and cycling routes for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts.