Aldar Properties will open a 2.4km canal running through the heart of the Shams community in Reem Island, Abu Dhabi. Final testing and commissioning work is well underway ahead of its scheduled flooding in early April, the developer announced today.

The canalscape, featuring 450 trees, covers an area of 46,000 square metres, and the canal itself is crossed by 10 bridges. Thirty-five plots within Shams are positioned adjacent to the canal, ensuring that many residents will enjoy close proximity to this new water feature.

Talal Al Dhiyebi, Chief Development, Aldar Properties PJSC said: “Shams is becoming one of the most sought-after destinations in the city, thanks to the quality of the developments and its prime location on Reem Island. This new canal will play an integral part of the community, as it runs through the heart of the development, and provides many areas for meeting up, exercising, and socializing. We look forward to its opening, in addition to other upcoming community events and amenities in the near future.”

Along with the canal, Aldar is close to completing over 23km of walkways, and 1,550m of cycle paths and 3,650m of promenade along the coastal scape. These projects along with a number of pocket parks and a public beach overlooking natural mangroves will help to create a relaxed, charming outdoor environment that will enhance the overall lifestyle benefits of living on Reem Island.

The Shams area of Reem Island is already home to some of Aldar’s most iconic developments including Sky Tower, Sun Tower, and the Gate & Arc Towers. It is also the location of Aldar’s first mid-market project – Meera. Meera was successfully launched in June 2015 and is over 90% sold, with construction ongoing.

Reem Island offers significant benefits to residents through its close proximity to the central business district on Al Maryah Island and its connectivity to the centre of Abu Dhabi and other prime destinations within the Emirate.