ARADA has awarded the infrastructure design contract for Aljada, Sharjahs largest ever mixed-use project, to professional services firm, Jacobs Engineering Group Inc.
The contract forms part of the overall AED1.2bn infrastructure package for Aljada, which will see Jacobs managing all aspects of infrastructure delivery for the project, including roads, water, power and drainage, ensuring full integration with the overall masterplan.
Aljada, a master-planned destination with a sales value of AED24bn, was unveiled by HH Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, in early September 2017.
HE Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, chairman of ARADA, said: This is a significant milestone for Aljada, as we continue to work towards breaking ground on this megaproject by the end of the first quarter. We are pleased to be partnering with Jacobs, a company with an excellent track record in delivering world-class projects around the world.
Neil Stevens, project director with Jacobs, said: We are extremely happy to be working closely with ARADA on the development of Aljada, a landmark project both for Sharjah and the UAE. We are looking forward to bringing our expertise and skills to this inspiring project and help deliver innovative, yet sustainable infrastructure, for this exciting development.
In early January, ARADA announced that it had secured an AED1bn Islamic financing facility with two major UAE banks, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank and Dubai Islamic Bank, to help fund the development of Aljada. In December, ARADA hosted Red Bull Torque, a brand-new motorsports experience featuring highly tuned desert buggies at the Aljada site, with 1,000 visitors enjoying for the first time a purpose-built events destination. ARADA will now roll out a calendar of further events at the site, focusing on sports, entertainment and family activities.
Aljada is an all-encompassing district that comprises considerable retail, leisure and entertainment options, in addition to a wide range of residential and commercial offerings.
Delivered in phases starting in 2019, construction on Aljada will begin in the first quarter of 2018 and the entire project is expected to be completed by 2025.