How long does it take to walk the Al Maryah Promenade?

Walking the main section of the promenade takes about 20 to 30 minutes, but a full circuit including stops at the malls and landmarks typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. The total distance for this specific route is roughly 2.5 kilometers.

Is Al Maryah Island worth visiting?

Yes, it is a must-visit for fans of modern architecture and luxury shopping. It offers some of the best skyline views in Abu Dhabi and features a high concentration of Michelin-recognized restaurants.

Can I walk from Al Maryah Island to other parts of Abu Dhabi?

Yes, Al Maryah Island is connected by several bridges to the main Abu Dhabi island and Al Reem Island. While the bridges have pedestrian walkways, the heat can make long-distance walking difficult during the day.

What is the best time to visit Al Maryah Island?

The best time to visit is during sunset and evening. The temperatures are cooler, the buildings are beautifully illuminated, and the promenade comes alive with locals and visitors dining outdoors.

Is Al Maryah Island pedestrian friendly?

Absolutely, it is one of the most pedestrian-friendly districts in the UAE. The area features wide, flat walkways, dedicated pedestrian bridges, and interconnected indoor spaces like The Galleria.

Are there public restrooms on the Al Maryah Promenade?

While there aren't many standalone public toilets on the outdoor path, high-quality restrooms are easily accessible within seconds of the promenade inside The Galleria mall and the Rosewood Hotel.

What landmarks are on Al Maryah Island?

Key landmarks include the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Square, the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, the Rosewood and Four Seasons hotels, and The Galleria shopping complex.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into the future of the United Arab Emirates with a neighborhood stroll through Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi's premier business and lifestyle destination. This self-guided walk takes you through a landscape of gleaming glass canyons and sophisticated waterfront walkways that redefine urban luxury. As the city's designated international financial center, the area is a masterclass in modern architecture, where every skyscraper reflects the shimmering turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf. This walking route is designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life, from world-class medical facilities that look like art galleries to high-end boutiques and Michelin-starred dining. Your journey begins at the heart of the district, the Abu Dhabi Global Market Square. Here, the sheer scale of the Sowwah Square towers sets the tone for an experience defined by architectural ambition. You will move from the rhythmic glass facades of the ADGM toward the striking, sculptural form of the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, a landmark that proves even infrastructure can be beautiful. As you transition to the waterfront, the Promenade offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of the business district. This is the perfect place to witness the Abu Dhabi skyline transform as the sun sets and the buildings begin to glow. The final stretch of this exploration highlights the island's reputation for hospitality and retail excellence. Passing by the Rosewood Abu Dhabi, you will see how luxury hotel design integrates seamlessly with the surrounding cityscape. The route concludes at The Galleria, a premier shopping destination that serves as a hub for both international fashion and local social life. Whether you are interested in the engineering marvels of the 21st century or looking for a vibrant evening atmosphere, this walking tour Abu Dhabi provides an intimate look at the city's rapid evolution into a global metropolis. This self-guided adventure allows you to linger at the water's edge or speed through the corridors of commerce at your own pace, offering a flexible way to experience the sophisticated side of the capital.

Highlights

The stunning LEED-certified towers of Abu Dhabi Global Market Square

Panoramic waterfront views along the Al Maryah Promenade

The sculptural glass architecture of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi

Luxury design and vertical aesthetic of the Rosewood Abu Dhabi

World-class shopping and dining at The Galleria Al Maryah Island

Spectacular sunset photography spots overlooking the city skyline

Tour Stops (6)

Abu Dhabi Global Market Square

Welcome to the financial heart of the capital. Abu Dhabi Global Market Square, originally known as Sowwah Square, is more than just a cluster of office buildings; it is a symbol of the city's economic ambition. The four main towers—Al Sila, Al Sarab, Al Maqam, and Al Khatem—surround the central ADGM building, which appears to float above the plaza. Take a moment to look at the glass facades; they are designed with advanced environmental technology to reflect the intense desert sun while maintaining transparency. This area is the UAE's first international financial center and serves as a bridge between the markets of the East and West. The clean lines and symmetrical layout here are a photographer's dream, especially when the light bounces off the glass at midday.

Al Maryah Island

As you walk, you are standing on what was once a simple patch of sand. Al Maryah Island is a testament to the UAE’s rapid development. Named after the Arabian Oryx (Al Maha), the island was transformed from a quiet coastal area into a vibrant multi-use district. It was planned as the new central business district of Abu Dhabi, designed to be pedestrian-friendly in a region where cars often dominate. Notice how the bridges connect the island to the main city and neighboring Al Reem Island. This master-planned community integrates business, leisure, and healthcare into a single walkable ecosystem, representing the 'Vision 2030' plan for Abu Dhabi’s sustainable and diversified future.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi

To your side stands the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, a building that challenges the traditional look of a hospital. Designed by the architects at Henning Larsen, the structure features a 'double-skin' glass facade that acts as a thermal buffer against the heat. Its design is inspired by the layers of a traditional Arabic lantern. The facility is not just a medical powerhouse but an architectural landmark, with its stacked blocks and cantilevered sections. It was built to bring world-class healthcare to the region, and its presence here underscores Al Maryah Island’s status as a 'city within a city' where every human need is met with high-end design and cutting-edge technology.

The Promenade - Al Maryah Island

Now, step onto the Promenade. This 5.4-kilometer waterfront walkway is the soul of the island. It offers a refreshing contrast to the vertical glass towers you just passed. On one side, you have the shimmering waters of the Khor Al Baghal, and on the other, a lineup of some of the city's finest restaurants. This is a favorite spot for locals to take a neighborhood stroll as the sun sets. The Promenade often hosts seasonal festivals, outdoor markets, and firework displays. From here, you can see the skyline of the main Abu Dhabi island across the water, providing a perfect panoramic view of the city’s growth over the last few decades.

Rosewood Abu Dhabi

Rising beside the waterfront is the Rosewood Abu Dhabi, a 34-story tower that exemplifies luxury hospitality. If you look closely at the building's exterior, you’ll see vertical lines and shimmering glass that are meant to mimic the movement of the sea and the desert's shifting sands. The design is intended to be a modern interpretation of the local environment. Inside, the hotel is known for its sophisticated art collection and high-end dining venues. The Rosewood acts as a social anchor for the island, where business deals are closed in the afternoon and celebrations happen at night. It is a key piece of the architectural puzzle that makes Al Maryah Island a destination for global travelers.

The Galleria Al Maryah Island

Your walk concludes at The Galleria, Abu Dhabi's premier shopping and dining destination. When it first opened, it focused exclusively on luxury brands, but it has since expanded into a massive lifestyle hub. Look up at the roof; the intricate geometric patterns are a modern nod to traditional Islamic architecture, providing shade while allowing natural light to flood the interior. The Galleria is home to everything from high-street fashion to exclusive boutiques and even an Apple Store with a unique water-front entrance. It’s the perfect place to end your journey, perhaps with a meal at one of the award-winning restaurants or simply by enjoying the air-conditioned elegance of the interior design.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk along the Al Maryah Promenade is the best way to see the district. It allows you to explore the architectural landmarks like the ADGM Square and Cleveland Clinic at your own pace while enjoying the waterfront views.