ALDAR Launches Talay, the First Residential Community at Marsa Al Saadiyat

Aldar has announced the launch of Talay, the first residential community within Marsa Al Saadiyat, its AED 100 billion waterfront destination forming the final phase of Saadiyat Island’s masterplan. The development will introduce 351 standalone villas, offering 4, 5 and 6-bedroom homes designed around family living, landscaped surroundings and access to the island’s waterfront lifestyle.

According to the project factsheet, Talay is divided into two residential collections: Talay, comprising 167 villas, and Talay Beach, comprising 184 villas. Prices start from AED 13.5 million, with a 50/50 payment plan. Handover for Talay is expected to begin in Q4 2029, while Talay Beach is scheduled from Q4 2030.

At the heart of the community will be a landscaped green spine incorporating falaj-inspired water channels, shaded gathering spaces, an outdoor majlis pavilion, landscaped gardens and maritime-inspired children’s play areas. The design draws on elements of Emirati heritage while presenting them through a contemporary architectural approach.

Aldar has also collaborated with Emirati artist and designer Abdalla Almulla to introduce bespoke artistic elements across Talay. Custom louvre details will be incorporated into the architecture of the villas, while Almulla’s contribution will extend into the public realm through a specially commissioned fountain.

Residents will have access to a range of lifestyle and wellness amenities, including swimming pools, fitness facilities, landscaped green spaces, padel and sports areas, children’s facilities and beach access. The community has been designed to encourage indoor-outdoor living, with villas featuring generous private spaces and strong connections to the surrounding landscape.

Talay will also benefit from the wider infrastructure planned for Marsa Al Saadiyat. The masterplan covers approximately 6.4 million square metres and stretches across 8 kilometres of coastline, incorporating 5.6 kilometres of beaches, a 1-kilometre waterfront promenade, 140 kilometres of interconnected walking paths and a 46-kilometre cycling loop. The wider destination is planned to accommodate more than 58,000 residents across private mansions, luxury villas, waterfront apartments and branded residences.

Connectivity will also form a major part of the wider development, with an underground Etihad Rail high-speed station planned within a transit-oriented development hub. Marsa Al Saadiyat will connect directly with Saadiyat Cultural District, providing convenient access to the island’s museums, cultural institutions, educational destinations, hospitality offerings and waterfront attractions.