Eagle Hills Begins Transformation of Abu Dhabi’s Lulu Island

The man-made island, located just 500 metres from the Corniche, is set for major redevelopment as Eagle Hills Properties begins work on site.

Abu Dhabi’s Lulu Island is moving closer to a long-awaited transformation, with Eagle Hills Properties confirmed as the developer behind the redevelopment of the strategically located waterfront destination.

Built in the early 1990s as a breakwater, Lulu Island has remained largely undeveloped for decades despite its prominent position just 500 metres from Abu Dhabi’s Corniche. The island is currently accessible only by boat, but recent activity suggests that its redevelopment is now progressing.

Construction machinery, including cranes and excavators, has been operating on the island, while workers have reportedly been transported to the site by boat. A number of show homes have also appeared facing the Abu Dhabi skyline, signalling the early stages of development.

Led by Mohamed Alabbar, Eagle Hills Properties has developed major residential, hospitality and mixed-use destinations across international markets. The company’s involvement is expected to bring new momentum to Lulu Island and unlock one of Abu Dhabi’s most prominent undeveloped waterfront locations.

The island’s location gives it significant development potential, with direct views across the Corniche, access to beaches and close proximity to the capital’s established urban centre.

Previous planning under Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 identified Lulu Island as an important part of the capital’s long-term urban framework, with earlier projections indicating the island could eventually accommodate around 20,000 residents. However, the final masterplan, residential mix, project value and development timeline for Eagle Hills’ plans have not yet been officially announced.

The redevelopment comes as Abu Dhabi continues to expand its residential and investment landscape beyond the traditional city centre, with growing emphasis on waterfront communities, new island destinations and lifestyle-led developments.