Construction work on Marsa Mina, Abu Dhabi’s new waterfront space, has begun with Abu Dhabi Ports unloading the first container to be used for the project recently.

The project, located next to the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal, promises to breathe new life into Abu Dhabi’s historic Mina Zayed port area by offering both residents and tourists alike with a dynamic new leisure destination to explore.

Captain Mohamed Al Shamisi, the CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports, spoke about the project and said that Marsa Mina would attract both international tourists and locals apart from training the spotlight on Abu Dhabi’s cruise culture to the global market. “The plethora of attractions available onsite will deliver an unforgettable experience for all those who visit the new waterfront,” he said.

“To promote the growth of small and medium enterprises in Abu Dhabi, we have set aside development space in Marsa Mina dedicated to entrepreneurs and start-ups. Businesses who are keen on establishing themselves in the port can expect a streamlined registration process,” Captain Al Shamisi added.

Scheduled to be completed and opened to the public in the first quarter of 2020, the Marsa Mina area will host food trucks and unique retail concepts, family entertainment, playgrounds and open seating areas. In keeping with its maritime heritage, Marsa Mina’s retail units will be constructed from recycled shipping containers.

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The project, which is being developed in partnership with Danas Business Consultancy, will also showcase artworks created from reused maritime equipment. Placed throughout the project, the works by young UAE creative artists will give Marsa Mina the feeling of a maritime museum.