First-of-its-kind immersive venue signals a new chapter in experiential real estate as Abu Dhabi’s property market reaches new highs
Abu Dhabi, UAE – May, 2026 – MERED, the award-winning international real estate developer, has unveiled a remarkable floating sales gallery on the waters of Al Reem Island, created as an exclusive introduction to Riviera Residences, the developer’s landmark waterfront project in Abu Dhabi. The launch was attended by leadership from Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), alongside senior executives from MERED and project partners, reflecting strong industry support.
Located directly on the water adjacent to the project site, the gallery presents an early view of Riviera Residences, which spans two prime plots totalling more than 23,400 square metres on Al Reem Island. Conceived as a tribute to the Mediterranean Riviera, the floating gallery’s interiors draw on both Mediterranean and Emirati design influences. The space has been purpose-built to reflect the core identity of Riviera Residences, a project in which the sea is not a backdrop but the defining element of its architecture, lifestyle, and character.
The development is designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architects Herzog & de Meuron, with landscape design by Michel Desvigne Paysagiste (MDP), technical leadership by DAR Al-Handasah, and enabling works by NSCC International Ltd. It will offer over 400 apartments and 11 villas, among them sky villas, bay villas, and a penthouse, alongside landscaped gardens and a vibrant waterfront promenade with cafés, boutique retail, and dining.
Michael Belton, CEO at MERED, commented: “Abu Dhabi is entering a defining phase in its growth as a global real estate destination. The city saw a 160% rise in real estate transaction value in Q1 2026 alone, reflecting a deepening appetite for premium development. At MERED, we believe that how a project is presented should be as considered as how it is designed. The floating gallery is a direct expression of what Riviera Residences stands for and allows clients to connect with the vision in its most authentic form.”
Abu Dhabi’s global appeal continues to accelerate, supported by an affluent and growing population and a regulatory environment that fosters transparency and investor confidence. Foreign direct investment in the capital’s real estate sector reached approximately AED 8 billion in Q1 2026, equivalent to the total FDI recorded across all of 2025, with investors from 99 nationalities contributing to the quarter’s performance.
Al Reem Island is one of Abu Dhabi’s most attractive premium destinations, ranked among the capital’s most active real estate areas. It sits in proximity to the Abu Dhabi Global Market financial centre, prestigious international schools, Reem Central Park, Galleria Mall, and Saadiyat Cultural District. The island offers waterfront views, lifestyle amenities, and modern infrastructure that support the city’s vision for sustainable, high-quality communities.
The launch coincides with significant construction progress at Riviera Residences. MERED recently announced the completion of over 60% of enabling works, including guide walls, shoring, contiguous piling, and ground improvement, as well as deep foundation works. The progress underscores the resilience of Abu Dhabi’s premium residential market and the strength of the emirate’s off-plan delivery.
About MERED:
MERED is an international real estate developer pioneering a new era of luxury living. The brand fosters strong partnerships with top-tier architects, contractors, and service providers, sharing a commitment to their values and creating immersive lifestyle experiences, fusing automotive, yachting, wellness, elite sports, and fashion into high-energy, ultra-luxury communities. Its international team of visionary experts, driven by strategic cooperation, develops the real estate sector scout for a revolutionary branded residence concept, to transform urban living and set new benchmarks in the International real estate sector.
