AMI One Central Development - Project Brief v05 01072025
AMI One Central Development - Project Brief v05 01072025
(COMMERCIAL OFFICE TOWERS, RESIDENTIAL TOWERS, HOSPITALITY, CAR PARK & MOSQUE)
PROJECT BRIEF
JULY 2025
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Classification: Internal
UAE Real Estate Al Maryah Island
One Central Development – Project Brief
Table of Contents
Table of Figures.................................................................................................................................................................. 2
1. INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................................................... 3
1.1 Al Maryah Island............................................................................................................................................... 3
1.1.1 Abu Dhabi Plan 2030 ................................................................................................................................ 4
1.1.2 Al Maryah Island Vision............................................................................................................................ 5
1.1.3 Innovative Masterplan ............................................................................................................................. 5
2. PURPOSE ................................................................................................................................................................... 7
3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION & SCOPE............................................................................................................................... 7
3.1 Vision ................................................................................................................................................................ 7
3.2 Design Strategy ................................................................................................................................................. 7
3.3 Current Challenges ........................................................................................................................................... 8
3.4 Plots To Be Developed ................................................................................................................................... 10
3.5 Scope of Project .............................................................................................................................................. 13
4. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS ................................................................................................................................... 15
5. INITIAL SCOPING, SELECTION OF PREFERRED OPTION AND DELIVERY OF DESIGN ................................................ 16
6. PROJECT STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE & ACCOUNTABILITY .................................................................................... 17
7. PROGRAM ............................................................................................................................................................... 17
8. RELEVANT REPORTS AND REFERENCE DOCUMENTS .............................................................................................. 18
Table of Figures
Figure 1- Location of Al Maryah Island ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….3
Figure 2- Al Maryah Island Development Phases ............................................................................................................ 4
Figure 3- CMP Report ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
Figure 4- DMP Report ....................................................................................................................................................... 5
Figure 5- Al Maryah Island Phasing……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..6
Figure 6- Phases 3 & 4…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………6
Figure 7- Connections at +8m……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..8
Figure 8- Location of Plots .............................................................................................................................................. 10
Figure 9- Amalgamated Plot BLK-12-01 ......................................................................................................................... 10
Figure 10- Plot Regulation Sheet BLK-12-01 ................................................................................................................... 11
Figure 11- Plot Regulation Sheet CP-02-03 ..................................................................................................................... 12
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One Central Development – Project Brief
1. INTRODUCTION
The island occupies a unique location at a midpoint between Abu Dhabi's existing downtown district, Al
Reem Island, Mina Zayed, and the new cultural district on Saadiyat Island. In this strategic position, it
creates a natural hub for Abu Dhabi - a vibrant core, combined with landmark architecture, seamlessly
integrated into the fabric of the city by state-of-the-art, multi-tiered transport infrastructure.
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Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 allows Abu Dhabi's Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities (DMT) to
coordinate and oversee developments across all sectors to promote the city's role as an international
business hub. To date, several new districts have been created, with the aim of concentrating resources
by area to achieve the greatest impact on finance, legislation, the environment, tourism, and trade.
Al Maryah Island is being developed by AlSowah Square Properties LLC (ASP), a subsidiary of Mubadala
Investment Company PJSC (MIC), into a world-class Central Business District (CBD), modeled on the
world's leading mixed-use business districts.
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One Central Development – Project Brief
Al Maryah Island is a world-class mixed-use development in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the
United Arab Emirates, and a major catalyst in the city's drive to achieve its objective of environmental,
economic, and social sustainability.
This thriving, high-density residential, retail, leisure, hotel, and commercial district will have a working
population of 75,000 and will be home to approximately 30,000 people, living an urban lifestyle
enlivened by everything the modern city dweller demands in a contemporary cityscape: parks and open
spaces, art galleries, community centers, high street and high fashion retail names, designer boutiques,
and a wide array of street cafés and world-class restaurants. Designed to underpin Abu Dhabi's long-
term economic and commercial growth, Al Maryah Island is quickly emerging as an all-around model for
urban living in the 21st century.
Al Maryah Island has been designed to take advantage of its unique position within Abu Dhabi, as a
commercial center for the city with a broad selection of 24/7 accessible public open space, retail
amenities, F&B offerings, and five-star Hospitality and Healthcare venues. The central section of the
island is built on a 14.25-meter-high podium encircled by a 5.4 km waterside Promenade. The central
section is the most densely developed, with commercial office towers and multi-story hotels flanking the
country's new Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Headquarters building at the center of ADGM Square
(formerly Sowwah Square).
A multibillion-dollar investment in its infrastructure has created an innovative multi-tiered road network
that accommodates a major new transit system. Together with a culturally responsive and imaginatively
designed public domain, they will integrate every aspect of the island - shopping malls, inviting leisure
venues, lively residential areas, public open space, a waterfront promenade, and landmark office towers.
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One Central Development – Project Brief
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One Central Development – Project Brief
2. PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to introduce the project. The Project Brief may be later extended and
refined into a Design Brief with Employer’s Requirements (ERs).
The Project Brief is a formal statement of the objectives and the functional and operational requirements
of the finished product. It should enable the designers to gain an understanding of the development plan
requirements.
The Project Brief is a key document and should not be altered without Client’s approval. Any significant
change to the material contained in the Project Brief will need to be referred to the Mubadala UAE Real
Estate Unit.
3.1 Vision
Al Maryah Island’s uniqueness in high standards is reflected in all aspects of the development, and
especially in the current and planned built environment.
It is envisaged that all buildings comply with creative and innovative design aesthetics; integration with
the surrounding streetscape, open spaces and built forms, and beflexible, functional, and sustainable.
The designs shall holistically reflect the quality, luxury and prestige existing on the island, by incorporating
high design standards and international best practices, in a creative, innovative, and inspirational solution,
which will stand as a testament to innovative design and resilience, offering both a nod to the past and a
look towards the future of urban landscape.
While the Concept Master Plan and Detailed Master Plan fpr Phase 3 & 4 are under development, two (2)
plots in Phase 3 are to be fast-tracked for development. These Fast Track plots are in line with the
submitted revised 2025 CMP (Phases 3 & 4), and comprise of the assigned Land Uses, described below.
The two plots to be developed, as further clarified in 3.3 below, are mixed-use land use. The larger plot
includes Commercial, Residential, Hospitality and a Jame’e (Friday) Mosque over a multi-level parking
structure (3 within podium and 2 basements). It is intended that the initial requirement of the Car park
and Mosque are completed and available earlier (car park open for use in April 2028) than other assets. A
high-level timeline for development delivery is provided.
In line with the rest of the island, the development of these plots will have a podium level extension of
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UAE Real Estate Al Maryah Island
One Central Development – Project Brief
the existing podium level (at +14.25m ASL) for public accessibility and connectivity from the existing
Galleria mall and Four Seasons Abu Dhabi Hotel (at +8.00m ASL) through a connecting pedestrian bridge
is required, as it complies with the island-wide approved public circulation strategy. The structure of these
pedestrian bridges is already constructed, and the future design of the said plots will incorporate these
assets into the final design.
The development requires to reflect the principles embraced by Al Maryah island’s iconic Five-Star
properties (the ADGM, Abu Dhabi Global Market Square (the Square), Rosewood Abu Dhabi (RAD), Four
Seasons Abu Dhabi (FSAD), The Galleria (Mall), and Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi (CCAD). The adjacencies
and locations of these are illustrated in the below.
This Project Brief focuses on the two (2) plots north of P6 (Hamdan Bin Mohammed Street) and of the
current built environment, into the Phase 3. The proposed development is subject to also the extension
of the podium level (at +14.25m ASL), for public accessibility.
Connectivity from the existing Galleria Mall and Four Seasons Abu Dhabi Hotel (at +8.00m ASL), through
a connecting pedestrian bridge is required, as it complies with the approved public circulation strategy.
The structure of these pedestrian bridges is already constructed, and the future design of these mixed-
use plots will incorporate these assets into the final design. Additionally key public transport networks
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One Central Development – Project Brief
may have a significant impact on the site and its occupation, due to their respective setting out boundaries
and constraints. These may occur at several levels, both below ground (proposed Metro line) and at
podium level (Light Rail Transport). Understanding these limitations is key in bringing about a Design that
can be pragmatically constructed.
Since the Car parking (and Mosque) are to be completed earlier (car park open for use in April 2028) than
other assets, care requires to be taken in ensuring completeness and permittable design for partial
occupancy; consultants to consider transfer structures in their design. This includes design and permitting
for façade on the podium towards the North and East sides, air-conditioned lift lobbies, fully functional
security strategy, CCTV monitoring, car-park management system, associated data rooms, signage and
others.
AMI Fire & Life Safety requirements require to be followed and incorporated to ensure a seamless
experience. This includes any FLS related signage, alarm systems, fire-shutters and separation between
the tunnels, +3m level roads and asset carparks. A detailed and thorough coordination is required with
the island-wide design.
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One Central Development – Project Brief
The two (2) plots that are subject of the Brief are identified below, and Plot Regulation Sheets from
detailed planning documents are attached.
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a) Plot BLK-12-01, which is a Mixed-Use Plot, with the following proposed uses:
i. Commercial Office Tower(s), where the building(s) complies with the creative and innovative
high design aesthetics and standards of the other Al Maryah Island office towers; integrated
with the surrounding streetscape, open spaces and built forms; flexible, functional, and
sustainable.
ii. Residential Tower (s), where the design shall holistically reflect the quality, luxury, and prestige
existing on the island, by incorporating high design standards and international best practices,
in a creative, innovative, and inspirational solution.
iii. Hospitality (4 Stars) Tower, where the design showcases a modernist waterfront, epitome of
glamour and comfort, which combines with the island’s ambitious spirit to fashion a new
experience.
iv. Jame’e (Friday) Mosque, where the design shall be a symbol of Al Maryah Island, with an iconic
and modern architectural style and features, yet complying with the Islamic principles for a
religious building, complying with a capacity for approximately 3,000 to 4,000 overall Friday and
Eid prayers (male & female). The design approach, possible multi-tier, will consider green
technology, making it energy efficient and sustainable, but Its functionality will be in the spirit
of traditional Islamic architecture, complying with AWQAF’s requirements and standards.
Natural light should be considered to allow for a holistic environment, especially within the main
prayer hall. The Sahn (covered courtyard – if applicable) shall be conceived so that it may serve
multiple functions, an informal gathering space, extended worship and prayer area, and for
social events. It should be designed to be inviting and to encourage people to enter and join in
the activities taking place there.
v. Parking, As per the plot regulation sheet, the minimum parking requirement based on GFA is
2,763 spaces. However, the project brief mandates a minimum of 3,819 parking spaces to be
distributed acrosse three podium levels and 2 basement levels. In addition, an optional
requirement to be provided for the addition of one more basement level (to total to 3 podium
levels and 3 basement levels) in the concept stage, for client approval.
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b) Plot CP-02-03, which is a Mixed-Use Plot, with the following proposed uses:
i. Commercial Office Tower(s), where the building(s) complies with the creative and innovative
high design aesthetics and standards of the other Al Maryah Island office towers; including a
multipurpose flexible hall/space, which may hold minor public and private events, and
gatherings; integrated with the surrounding streetscape, open spaces and built forms; flexible,
functional, and sustainable.
Alternative:
ii. Commercial Office Tower(s), where the building(s) complies with the creative and innovative
high design aesthetics and standards of the other Al Maryah Island office towers; integrated
with the surrounding streetscape, open spaces and built forms
iii. Dedicated Multipurpose hall/space, where the structure needs to be famed for its unique
appearance and iconic, where natural light floods the interior, enhancing the spacious and airy
feel. It should be a functional, convenient and poignant space, for carrying out trade promotion
and related activities in the city of Abu Dhabi. The project is envisaged to be a destination for
Public gatherings / Congretions, Meetings, Incetives, Conventions, Conferences, etc.
iv. Parking, As per the plot regulation sheet, the minimum parking requirement based on GFA is
1,337 spaces. However, the project brief mandates a minimum of 1,598 parking spaces to be
distributed acrosse three podium levels and 2 basement levels. In addition, an optional
requirement to be provided for the addition of one more basement level (to total to 3 podium
levels and 3 basement levels) in the concept stage, for client approval.
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All the assets will include street frontage retail spaces, and they shall be planned to have air-conditioned
and fully finished pedestrian connections with each other, with the future plots to be developed, and
consequently with adjacent Galleria Mall (via the pedestrian link at +8m ASL), between the Convention
Centre and the Mall.
A detailed Scope of Services and Design Brief document will be issued under separate cover. Generally,
the scope of project comprises Demolition package for current Active components, Concept Design for
all the assets shown in the Plot Regulation Sheets of the two (2) fast-track plots shown in 3.4. The Car
park and mosque will proceed to Schematic Design after which they will be packaged together with
Employer’s Requirements (ER) to be issued to a D&B Contractor. Schematic Design and Employer’s
Requirements for other assets to be optional items - to be confirmed. A strategy for tendering, award
and execution of construction works for other assets to be developed in conjunction with client.
Classification: Internal
UAE Real Estate Al Maryah Island
One Central Development – Project Brief
Both plots are mixed-use developments with podium & basement parkings, 4 commercial office towers,
2 residential towers, a hospitality tower, a multi-purpose exhibitions component and a Friday mosque
with all buildings compatible in quality, functionality and appearance with existing AMI built assets.
The buildings shall be designed in accordance with the Building Rating System (ESTIDAMA) requirements
As the Concept and Detailed Master Plan for Phases 3 & 4 are being developed, for the two Fast Track plots
to be initiated by the Master Developer, the overall Utility supply shall be provided by the existing network,
servicing Phases 1 & 2 Development.
The Consultant shall be responsible for producing a design that will capture the vision of the Client,
produce the required stages of design as above and cover all required disciplines, complying with the
requirements of AMI documents such as Concept Master Plan, Detailed Master Plan and AMI Design
Guidelines and coordinate with the existing assets (such as buildings, utilities, roads, and other
infrastructure). The Consultant shall also be responsible to obtain the necessary Master Developer’s and
statutory NOCs and approvals (as appropriate during each stage of design) as these are the essential part
of design deliverables and key element for assessment of design progress and achieved design milestones.
Consultant shall not proceed to the next stage without achieving an NOC from the Employer. The Design
shall be of the highest quality, utilizing advanced engineering and intelligent technology, and shall
integrate harmoniously with the existing and purposed built environment whilst meeting all of the current
authority requirements.
Workshops between the Client and his representatives and the Consultant are essential and shall be
arranged and conducted at the beginning of the design process to explore and validate all ideas. Additional
workshops will be held during the progress of the works, at the various stages.
It is particularly emphasized that workshops and reviews will include estimated project costs in order to
comply with Client’s development budget. If necessary, designs will be optimized and value engineered
by Consultant, and detailed feedback will be provided to the Client regarding the proposed solutions.
The following specialties/disciplines are expected to be included during the development of the various
design phases, but not limited to:
• Architecture
• Landscaping (including irrigation design)
• Sustainability (Pearl Qualified Professional, LEED Specialist)
• Lighting Specialist
• Structural Engineering
• MEP Engineering
• ICT/AV (compliant with Employer’s/ Operators requirements and UAE laws)
• Smart Cities Specialist
• Fire and Life Safety
• Telecommunications
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• Civil Engineering
• Health and Safety
• Security
• Waste Management
• Retail Specialist
• Façade Specialist
• Interior Design
• Vertical Transportation (Lifts and Escalators)
• Traffic Specialist
• Geotechnical Engineering
• Design Management and Coordination of Design Teams and Sub-Consultant
• Permitting and Authorities Coordination Specialist
• BIM/ GIS
• CGI Specialist
• Other Specialists and Advisors as required during the course of design and approvals, such as:
enabling and temporary works, underground waterproofing systems, structural (post-tensioned,
prestressed, tensioned fabric systems, wind tunnel testing, etc), modular partition systems,
kitchen/bar design, signage design, acoustic design, electrical vehicle (EV) charging, etc.
4. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
A. Aspirational Brief
The brief for theses projects has been developed based on some of the world’s leading work place
environments. From this exercise, it was concluded that the following items were fundamental to creating
a places that can be benchmarked against world’s best practice.
• Opportunity for enhanced vertical & horizontal connectivity, that promotes collaboration and
productivity.
• Well positioned contiguous atriums to enhance the work-place environment and provide visual
connectivity across the floor plates. Enhanced activation at base of atrium provided amenity and
diversity unique to Al Maryah Island.
• Integrated retail which activates the ground plane and provides alternative break-out and
meeting spaces. Expressed workplace and building innovation – achieved in the building
architecture including floorplate configuration, atrium detailing and building facade.
• Environmentally sustainable design – passive and visual, delivering world’s best practice for
internal environment quality and energy.
• Floor plates that are large, regular, and flexible yielding high levels of efficiency and practical
value for commercial operation (leasing).
B. Car Park
• Car Parking within podiums and basements and Car Parking spaces as defined in the DCRs
• Comply with Abu Dhabi regulations and all applicable codes and guideline requirements for
parking spaces and design requirements.
• Access for People of Determination to be according to applicable code and guideline
requirements.
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• Fully functional and ADCD compliant design with Design NOCs. Comply with security, access
control, FLS requirements.
• Design of cores and lift lobbies. Elevators and signage keeping in mind phasing and links to
adjacent assets.
C. Mosque
• At Podium / Upper Street Level (from +14.25 ASL). Comply with the Abu Dhabi Mosque
Development Regulations, and all applicable code and guideline requirements.
• Access for People of Determination according to applicable code and guideline requirements.
• A space shall be allocated for civil defence to comply with ADCD requirements.
• Pedestrian pathways that provide access to the mosques should be shaded with non-obstructive
shade structures and/or landscaping.
• Undertake early sketch schemes to explore and evaluate options and produce a simple Options
Analysis Report for review and agreement with the Client. This shall include design options (including
appropriate floor layouts and visuals/renderings of building exteriors and interiors) and a
commentary on advantages/disadvantages of each option, including impact on development costs.
• Present Options Analysis Report to the Client to explain the findings and proposals. Incorporate
requirements, comments, and queries into the final report.
• Hold discussions with the Client to establish a basis for Concept Design, to program the operation of
the areas, and to define the selected option in terms of space layout and, particularly, specification
standards and finishes.
Following the Client's approval of the preferred Option, and incorporating the comments, the Consultant
shall undertake, execute, and coordinate the following design duties:
• Develop and coordinate the approved Design Option in conjunction with the structural, MEP,
landscape, and all other Consultants/ disciplines, considering the Client’s design review comments
and recommendations, and including any operator, authority, or statutory requirements.
• Obtain all authority approvals required for the various design stages, i.e., register the project with
DMT / ADM, obtain all NOCs and approvals as per local regulations and normal practice. The
Consultant shall investigate in advance the necessary NOCs and approvals which may be required at
each stage of design and present them in a logical format suitable for tracking as soon as possible.
The design of project shall include the comprehensive design & engineering of all relevant disciplines
to supply and install all required project works and infrastructure which would allow stakeholders to
establish their operations. This includes, but is not limited to, all utilities, power, water, irrigation,
drainage, landscaping, lighting, safety and security requirements, telecom, fire protection, and so on.
The Consultant shall be responsible for the design to the requirements of the Client’s Brief, and the
satisfaction of the Client. The design shall interface with adjoining developments included in the DMP,
referenced historical documents, and as outlined in this Client’s Brief.
The Consultant shall conduct an in-depth review of the provided documentation and Client’s brief
identifying any gaps, omissions, or inconsistencies that could result in the deficient design, cost overruns,
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Al Sowwah Properties (ASP) and its designated representatives will assume the role of Client for the
works and communications associated with this Project Brief. ASP and its designated representatives
will make timely decisions and ensure the project organization and management approach adheres to
the Design Program and will have clear lines of communication and delegated authority. ASP will
outsource the administrative and day-to-day management function to an external Project Management
Company (PMC); decisions regarding changes to time, costs, and quality parameters will remain with
ASP. ASP will oversee and inspect the work performed by the Consultants to ensure it is compliant with
their contracts; and review and recommend payment of Consultant’s invoices.
The Consultant will manage the design process and be responsible for coordination of his work with all
the stakeholders and should plan his staffing accordingly to cover all management and administration
duties. The Consultant will prepare, share and maintain the project directory with stakeholder details.
7. PROGRAM
The Consultant is required to provide a Critical Path Method program of the design services within 15 days
of contract award and submit weekly and monthly updates as required by the Client or their designated
representatives for review and comment. The Consultant shall allow for a Client review period of 10
working days minimum.
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The Consultant shall ensure that all applicable codes and documents are consulted and adhered to,
including, but not limited to:
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