ABU DHABI For years Abu Dhabi’s oldest and most affluent neighbourhood, Al Bateen, has been famous for its landscaped boulevards and palatial palaces.
But now it is hogging the limelight for Marasy -- a luxurious waterfront residential development in the Al Bateen Wharf.
Marasy, which means harbour in Arabic, consists of a string of low rise buildings located in the western part of the island’s coastline behind King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Road (old Baynunah Street).
Eight elegant glass buildings line the sides of a vast waterfront and offer stunning views of a San Francisco-style Fishermen’s Marina and the city skyline.
Picturesque promenade
A picturesque promenade dotted with cafes, restaurants and outdoor garden adds to the charm of the place.
Not surprisingly, Marasy is fast emerging as one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods in the capital.
The property is managed by International Capital Trading, a real estate company that owns and operates multiple real estate portfolios in Abu Dhabi and abroad.
However, renting a home here doesn’t come cheap. A studio apartment could set you back by Dh95,000. Annual rents for one bedroom apartments start from Dh125,000 and those for two bedrooms from Dh165,000. Three bedrooms rent for around Dh250,000.
But residents are not complaining. “It’s worth every penny,” said an Arab man.
Briton Jan Thompson, who is visiting his daughter said Marasy compares to some of the best waterfront properties in London.
“I have been here a couple of times and I can comfortably say that it’s par with some of those plush waterfront properties back home.
“The layout is clean, the environment is safe and the views stunning. What else can you ask for?” he said.
Another resident, Tatsiana Kazhamiakina from Belarus said she loved the tranquil atmosphere of the place.
“This is an excellent location for families looking for some quiet and peace while living not too far away from the city. It’s got everything you can possibly dream of in a residential community,” said Kazhamiakina.
Residents said the only thing the place lacked was a playground for children.
“This is something we really wish for. There are lots of families with toddlers and young children and they have no place to play,” said British mom Niki Gaskin.
With several new developments including a five-star hotel coming up here, residents reckon Marasy will soon become an unrivalled neighbourhood.
“I am glad I moved here,” said an Irish resident.
