National Aquarium in Abu Dhabi will anchor new Al Qana complex by MZ Architects
by Andy Knaggs | 12 Jul 2019
One of the Middle East's biggest aquariums, the National Aquarium in Abu Dhabi, is on track to open in 2020 as a cornerstone of upcoming mixed-use destination, Al Qana.
The development, by Al Barakah International Investment (BII) and Abu Dhabi Municipality, will welcome a million visitors a year when complete.
The 7,000sq m (22,965sq ft), aquarium will be home to 33,000 responsibly- and ethically-sourced marine creatures to highlight the importance of conservation.
The Al Qana complex, designed by local firm MZ Architects, will include a five star hotel, waterfront restaurants and cafés with a view of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, as well a wellness hub, a VR park, sports facilities and a marina.
It will also include an open-air theatre, sports facilities, jogging and skating paths, children's golf and high-end retail.
Entertainment such as cinemas, a kids' zone, an outdoor skate park and landscaped community spaces complete the location.
The developers say Al Qana has been designed to promote social interaction and a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
Al Qana Abu Dhabi Al Qana aquarium Al Barakah International Investment Abu Dhabi Municipality
The new National Aquarium will have a focus on conservation Credit: Al Qana
The development has been funded by Al Barakah and Abu Dhabi Municipality Credit: Al Qana
One of the Middle East's biggest aquariums, the National Aquarium in Abu Dhabi, is on track to open in 2020 as a cornerstone of upcoming mixed-use destination, Al Qana. The development, by Al Barakah International Investment (BII) and Abu Dhabi Municipality, will welcome a million visitors a year when complete. The 7,000sq m (22,965sq ft), aquarium will be home to 33,000 responsibly- and ethically-sourced marine creatures to highlight the importance
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