UAE developer Ardee breaks ground on $545m Fairmont Al Marjan Island waterfront project

The project forms the first phase of Ardee’s long-term masterplan for Al Marjan Island.

The on-site groundbreaking ceremony signals the start of construction on one of Ras Al Khaimah’s most anticipated waterfront developments. Following the successful completion of enabling works, piling has now commenced, marking the project’s first major construction milestone.

With full site mobilisation underway, works will span nearly 1.2 million sq. ft. of gross floor area (GFA), encompassing both the hotel and residential components.

Piling is scheduled for completion by April 2026, after which the project will transition into main construction.

As the first project within Ardee’s 5.6 million GFA Al Marjan Island masterplan, Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island and Fairmont Al Marjan Island Hotel sets the benchmark for design, quality and lifestyle vision for the destination.

The development will comprise 519 branded residences and townhouses, four signature sea villas and an integrated 250-key hotel. The project is scheduled for completion in 2028 and represents one of the most significant branded coastal developments in the emirate.

Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island in the UAE

Residents will benefit from Fairmont’s luxury hospitality offering combined with resort-style convenience. Amenities include private beach access, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, separate pools for families and adults, curated social and dining spaces, wellness and entertainment amenities, and direct connectivity to the adjacent Fairmont Al Marjan Island Hotel.

Romeo Abdo, Founder of Ardee, said: “Today marks an important milestone for Ardee. The groundbreaking signals the start of a flagship beachfront development that reflects our commitment to design excellence, long-term quality, and modern coastal living.

“This project is the first in our Al Marjan Island masterplan, and it sets the benchmark for the future communities we are building in the UAE. We are proud to be investing in Ras Al Khaimah’s future, supporting its ambition to grow as a premier destination for coastal living, branded hospitality, and long-term investor confidence.”

Arch. Abdulla Al Abdouli, Group CEO at Marjan, said: “We are happy to witness the progress being made on Ardee Al Marjan Island. By providing vibrant spaces for master-planned developments to thrive, Marjan is boldly aligned with the emirate’s vision to transform into a sought-after global destination for luxury lifestyle and investment.”

Omer Acar, CEO at Fairmont Raffles, said: “Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter as we break ground on the exceptional Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island and Fairmont Al Marjan Island Hotel along the stunning coastline of Ras Al Khaimah. Embraced by nature and crafted to showcase the very best of the destination, this development is poised to become a vibrant social hub, where meaningful moments and unforgettable experiences truly Make Special Happen.”

The flagship project will anchor an integrated waterfront destination combining residential, hospitality, retail, leisure and wellness spaces.