Al Qana: Abu Dhabi's new entertainment hub 90% complete

Construction of Abu Dhabi's latest entertainment and dining hub, Al Qana, is about 90 per cent complete.

The waterfront destination, spanning 2.4 kilometres, will have restaurants and cafes, children's recreation centres, and, most notably, the National Aquarium – the Middle East's largest.

On Sunday, Al Qana developer, Al Barakah International Investment, said the project was on schedule for completion this year.

"As the tourism sector recovers from the travel restrictions due to the pandemic, Al Qana would be ready to receive visitors in 2021," said Fouad Mashal, chief executive of Al Barakah International Investment.

"Our top priority is to adapt to the new social norms in place to ensure the safety of visitors coming to this special social destination. Our team is working on new protocols and procedures with the relevant authorities to ensure the required guidelines are applied fully at our premises."

Located on the Khor Al Maqta waterway, Al Qana is spread across seven zones.

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Visitors will have access to restaurants spanning the waterfront, offering a prime view of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Al Qana's main feature, the aquarium, spans more than 7,000 square metres and is now 95 per cent complete. Once open to the public, it will be home to 33,000 marine creatures that will be cared for by a team of 80 experts and specialists.

The animals will be responsibly and ethically sourced from around the world, according to organisers, with the destination highlighting the importance of conservation throughout its themed zones.

The other sections will feature scenic walkways to encourage visitors to stroll, while entertainment options will include cinemas, a children's area, an outdoor skate park and landscaped community spaces.

Al Qana will also have a yacht marina, an e-sports and gaming zone, a wellness hub and virtual-reality park.