Masdar signs deal with TDIC

Abu DHABI // The Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) has signed an agreement with the Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC) to develop a sustainable energy and water strategy for a nature reserve and resort on an island in the Gulf. The deal is the first of what Masdar hopes to be a series of advisory roles for developers in Abu Dhabi and the region, as the company expands its business into other sustainable design fields.

"This is our first one, but we are very much looking to do this with more developers in the future," a Masdar spokesman said yesterday. Sir Bani Yas Island, the location of a 64-room resort and spa, is one of eight islands off the coast of the western region of Abu Dhabi that the TDIC is converting into a tourism destination called Desert Islands. The resort is the only facility open on the islands. One night in a room with a sea view costs Dh1,900 (US$517). The resort's main attractions are wildlife, including native flamingos, and exotic fish and reefs.

Masdar and TDIC said yesterday that they would investigate building a sustainable energy and water facility on the island, as well as eco-friendly transport systems and waste-to-energy recycling plants. "Not only will this help Desert Islands to minimise the environmental impact, but it sends a clear message about Abu Dhabi's intention to play a decisive role in the use and direction of future energy," said Mubarak al Muhairi, the managing director at TDIC. He added that the island project would "become a regional showpiece of sustainability".

TDIC is developing some of Abu Dhabi's most iconic projects. Among them is Saadiyat Island, which will house several museums, including a Guggenheim and a Louvre. @Email:[e-mail]