Ajman today unveiled a Dh220 billion ($60 billion) real estate initiative aimed at developing the emirate’s coastline into a sustainable residential, business and leisure community.

Named Al Zorah, the new city will be developed by the Al Zorah Development Company, a joint venture between the government of Ajman and the Lebanon-based Solidere International Limited, a leader in urban planning and the development of large scale projects in the Middle East.

Located along Ajman’s pristine beachfront and creek, Al Zorah will be a self-contained, master-planned city containing varied residences, offices, retail, schools, hospitals and leisure facilities including marinas and a number of five-star resort hotels.  It will be 12 sq km in area, with a built up area of 22 million sq m and will have a total of 16 km of sandy white beaches and waterside walks.

In line with the vision of Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, the project aims to transform the emirate into a world class residential, tourism and investment destination, said a statement.

“Al Zorah is a milestone for Ajman, reflecting the combination of tradition and innovation that distinguishes the emirate,” said Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, chairman of the Al Zorah Development Company. 

“Already a sought-after destination for high-value investors, who are drawn by its business-friendly regulations and relatively open marketplace, Ajman is entering a new chapter in its development. Al Zorah is a truly spectacular project that will become an international destination,” he said.

Dr Nasser Chammaa, chairman and CEO of Solidere International,  said: “Al Zorah combines both natural and urban environments in one; it is an ambitious project, intended to transform Ajman into one of the region’s most sought after places to live, work and play, in an urban environment that also ensures energy conservation and sustainability for future generations.  It is well suited to Solidere’s community-focused development approach.”

Situated just 25 minutes from Dubai International Airport along a new 8.5 km access route from Emirates Road, the Al Zorah development will reflect the emirate’s natural beauty, both by maximizing green space within the community and by adapting itself to the surrounding mangrove plantations and other natural elements. On its coast will be a crescent shaped bay, part of 16 km of beach front including 3 km of original beach, picturesque creeks and interconnected islands. The backdrop will be a thriving city of 200,000 residents and workers.

Residences will be located in idyllic waterfront “villages” served by neighbourhood amenities. The maximum use of public squares and pedestrian areas will create a walking city, with cafes, retail and open spaces being a central part of community living. Cultural, entertainment and leisure facilities, including a championship golf course, equestrian centre and five public marinas, are part of the master plan, said the statement.

Imad Dana, CEO of the Al Zorah Development Company, said: “This land is alive with nature: there are 30 species of mangroves, over 20 species of birds and countless coastal fish. This natural beauty is central to Ajman’s appeal, but so too is its rich culture. Al Zorah, supported by the know-how and collaboration of Solidere International, will reflect Ajman’s cultural and natural heritage, and express the emirate’s spirit of innovation.  It will also be appealing to investors after the government of Ajman issued a special decree giving Al Zorah both freezone and freehold status.”

By adapting best practices in environmentally-friendly design and energy-efficient infrastructure, Al Zorah will keep its ecological footprint to a minimum; the use of shade and energy-efficient construction and materials is expected to significantly limit the use of ener