The global architecture firm has been named lead master-planning consultant for the 10 million square metre low-density sustainable urban development, one of the most ambitious projects currently in planning in Abu Dhabi.
June 23, 2026 | Tripti Mehta | UAE | Design
.jpg)
Woods Bagot has been appointed lead master-planning consultant for one of Abu Dhabi's most significant urban development projects currently in planning, a nearly 10 million square metre sustainable city being jointly delivered by Abu Dhabi National Company for Building Materials (BILDCO) and Wujod Real Estate Development. The appointment was confirmed in a statement to the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and follows a competitive process involving a number of internationally recognised planning, architecture, and urban development firms.
As reported by Real Estate Market Times in May 2026, the project was conceived as a deliberate departure from the high-density, high-rise model that has dominated UAE residential development. The BILDCO and Wujod partnership is designed around a low-density urban model combining ecological estate living, wellness destinations, equestrian and golf facilities, innovation hubs, productive landscapes, and tourism-linked hospitality assets. First-phase investment stands at AED 2 billion, with the full development spanning approximately 107 million square feet.
The partnership structure is notable in itself. BILDCO, listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, is the UAE capital's largest specialist building materials and construction solutions company. Wujod Real Estate Development, founded and led by Issa Ataya, is Dubai-based, an inter-emirate alignment that reflects continued capital and operational flow between the two emirates as Abu Dhabi accelerates its low-density development pipeline.
Woods Bagot's scope of work covers the full range of master-planning responsibilities, from strategic vision and development framework through to conceptual and detailed plans, land-use and infrastructure planning, commercial alignment studies, and implementation strategy, alongside visualisations to support the project's long-term investment positioning.
Founded in Adelaide in 1905, Woods Bagot has operated in the Middle East since 2001, with studios in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Riyadh. Its regional portfolio spans large-scale masterplans, landmark buildings, and sustainable workplace campuses.
The project's precise location within Abu Dhabi has not been officially disclosed. The current phase will focus on producing the comprehensive master plan and strategic planning framework to guide phased delivery and support future investment and community infrastructure.
Sources: Zawya Projects, BILDCO statement to Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, woodsbagot.com
