ABU DHABI — Aldar Properties on Sunday announced the launch of a water park on Yas Island, its major leisure and entertainment destination project, estimated to cost about Dh40 billion. The 16.4-hectare water park will feature over 40 rides and attractions, including four rides that have never been seen before in a water park, the company said in a Press release. However, when contacted by Khaleej Times, company officials declined to divulge the estimated cost of the water park. Aldar has already received the conceptual planning approval from the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council and has appointed UK-based Atkins as lead designer for the project. The company has also initiated the pre-qualification process for the project’s main contractors, and construction will begin next month. It is scheduled for delivery in 2012, the release said. The water park joins a range of world-class recreational attractions at Yas Island, such as Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the first Ferrari theme park in the world and largest attraction of its kind. It is scheduled to be opened on October 28. Yas Island is also home to the Yas Marina Circuit, the venue for the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and Yas Links, the region’s first true links golf course. It is also home to seven hotels, including The Yas Hotel. The park’s theme will focus on intensifying guests’ experience and provide an enjoyable family atmosphere for all ages, the release said. Aldar has committed to making this facility one of the most environmentally friendly and sustainable water parks in the world. In order to accomplish this goal, Atkins is designing the buildings to meet Estidama guidelines and is engineering ways to dramatically reduce energy and water consumption. “This facility will provide a unique entertainment opportunity for people of all ages, enabling families and individuals alike to indulge in a thrilling entertainment experience that reflects our rich maritime culture,” the release said, quoting Aldar Properties Chief Commercial Officer Mohammed Al Mubarak. Aldar’s diverse property portfolio includes major developments and re-developments within Abu Dhabi including Yas Island, Al Raha Beach, Central Market, Al Falah, Reel Island and Noor Al Ain. The company owns over 50 million square metres of land in strategic locations throughout the emirate.
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