International Capital Trading LLC (ICT), a leading Abu Dhabi-based investment and development company, presents Al Manhal, a large public park district that will serve as the cultural and recreational heart of the city.
The project, which covers a 66-hectare site, is strategically located in the centre of the city just two minutes away from the Corniche. The focal point is the Al Manhal palace which once served as the official Abu Dhabi residence of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan; where he once received guests and visitors and officiated over many significant events that shaped the emergence of the federation.
As part of the project, the palace will be restored to its old grandeur and will open its gates to the public as a historical museum, a cultural heritage centre, a gallery and a botanical institute.
Hamad Al Shamsi, Chief Executive Officer of ICT, said: "The new vision for Al Manhal is one that will reshape the dynamics of the city, creating an open and green area with public cultural attractions that will recount the history of Abu Dhabi and celebrate the visionary leader who built this nation." "Soon it will be a delightful recreational area accessible to all inhabitants and visitors of the city who are likely to derive considerable pleasure from the existence of wide ’breathing spaces’ within a growing metropolis," said Al Shamsi.
The addition of a botanical garden is significant as it underscores Sheikh Zayed’s passion for greening the emirate, and features many of the original species of trees that he requested be planted around the palace.
As much as 40 percent of the site will be dedicated to green landscaping and vegetation, and a large area will feature pedestrian walkways and bicycle lanes. Also on the grounds will be a wide �plaza’ intended to create a sense of serenity and calm, as well as a grand mosque.
"The design inspiration has always centred on two key principles �openness and integration,’ and every detail is intended to capture the essence of Sheikh Zayed’s humanity and celebrate his generous spirit." Al Shamsi explained that the project has been designed meticulously to meet the rigorous standards of the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council towards achieving the vision of Abu Dhabi 2030. The project reflects the high standards of sustainability and environmental responsibility, and the entire property integrates harmoniously with the surrounding developments.
A peripheral belt around Al Manhal property, far removed from the centre, will provide visual interest and feature residential, commercial and community structures made up of villas, apartments, a hotel and serviced apartments. A significant aspect will be Al Manhal’s integration into the cultural �roadmap’ of the city which, together with the Qasr Al Hosn Fort and the Culture Foundation, will form part of an Abu Dhabi’s Heritage Trail that is being developed by the Abu Dhabi Authority of Culture and Heritage.
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