ADIO Collaborates With Local Investors To Boost Retail And Educational Developments In Abu Dhabi
The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) has entered into several Musataha agreements with local investors. These agreements aim to improve community living standards and boost economic growth in Abu Dhabi. Finalised during the fifth Al Multaqa quarterly meetings, led by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) alongside ADIO, they include plans for two retail centres and a school to meet local needs.
In Madinat Al Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, Misnaad Mall will emerge as a new commercial hub. Developed by Misnaad Alehterafya Contracting, it will offer over 1,000 sqm of gross leasable area (GLA) for retail and food & beverage outlets. This project aims to meet the rising demand for modern shopping experiences while boosting local economic activity.
Al Ain's Al Dhahir district will soon see Pro Shops 2, a lively retail destination. With over 2,500 sqm of GLA, Danat Alsharq Contracting Company will develop this project. It aims to enhance Al Ain’s commercial landscape by offering modern retail and dining spaces, serving as a community hub for residents and businesses alike.
On the educational front, ADIO has partnered with the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) and Shining Star International School. They plan to establish a cutting-edge educational facility in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi. This AED 97 million project spans over 30,000 sqm and will be developed in two phases to accommodate up to 4,000 students.
The school will follow an Indian curriculum for Grades 1-12. It is poised to become a significant addition to the emirate’s educational offerings. These projects are strategically positioned to provide essential services to residents while supporting broader development goals within the emirate.
Mansoor Al Bastaki, Head of Musataha at ADIO, stated: "These projects are a testament to the power of public-private partnerships, and the benefits of working together to accelerate economic progress and uplift Abu Dhabi’s communities. Through the Musataha programme, we are unlocking the potential of the emirate’s public land to fuel investments that elevate the quality of life, from world-class retail spaces to state-of-the-art educational institutions. As these projects take shape, they will play a pivotal role in driving Abu Dhabi’s dynamic development."
Musataha Programme's Impact
The Musataha programme allows UAE national investors to undertake long-term infrastructure projects on public land using competitive pricing models. This initiative has successfully encouraged collaboration between investors and government partners, ensuring that development aligns with community needs.
The Al Multaqa meetings are organised quarterly by ADDED and ADIO. They inform local businesses and family offices about economic conditions while highlighting investment opportunities in Abu Dhabi. These gatherings facilitate dialogue between businesses and government entities, shaping policy and encouraging further investment.
With inputs from WAM


