X Architects Unveils 2.3 Million Sqm Zayed Waterfront Masterplan in Abu Dhabi

X Architects, a Dubai-founded architectural and urban design firm, has revealed the Zayed Waterfront masterplan, a visionary proposal for Mina Zayed in Abu Dhabi. This extensive project aims to redevelop the historic port into a new 2.3 million square metre civic and maritime centre, positioned at the northern edge of the emirate.

Masterplan Vision and Districts

The conceptual masterplan is designed as a new waterfront gateway, connecting downtown Abu Dhabi, the Corniche, and Saadiyat Island. It comprises three interconnected, programme-led districts:

• Cruise Island: Envisioned as a primary hub for sea visitors, this island will integrate a cruise terminal, AD Ports’ headquarters, a business park, and event spaces within a public waterfront setting. It features an elevated terminal platform for efficient passenger movement and a ground-level maritime plaza with canal connections, ferry, and water-taxi stops. This responds to Abu Dhabi's growing cruise economy, which saw almost 600,000 passengers in the 2024/25 season.
• Business Island: Located centrally around Abu Dhabi Marina, this district will combine offices, hospitality, convention facilities, dining, and marina services, including a marina club and boat-show facilities, ensuring year-round activity.
• Resort Island: The masterplan also includes a resort landscape, cultural facilities, and diverse public realms.

Reconnecting Abu Dhabi's Heritage

The Zayed Waterfront proposal aims to re-establish Mina Zayed's civic role, drawing inspiration from Abu Dhabi's rich history of fishing, pearling, trade, and shipbuilding. It seeks to extend the Corniche's public realm into the port area through a sequence of plazas, shaded promenades, and varied waterfront experiences. A central spine will connect the three islands via Zayed Plaza, a civic hub featuring a maritime archive, marine research centre, and event facilities.

Ahmed Al Ali, Founding Partner and Executive Chairman of X Architects, emphasised that the vision is to give Mina Zayed's legacy a renewed civic role, creating a new waterfront gateway that integrates with the city while retaining the character of a working maritime landscape. The project aligns with Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 objectives to diversify the economy, enhance liveability, and strengthen the emirate’s identity as a connected waterfront city.