Egyptian real estate developer Palm Hills Developments will invest over USD 3.8 bn (AED 14 bn) to develop its Saadiyat Shores mega-project in Abu Dhabi — its first investment in the UAE, chairman Yassin Mansour told Sky News Arabia (watch, runtime: 16:22). The developer is targeting over USD 7 bn in project sales from European, American, Egyptian, and Asian buyers.

The details: The 1.87 mn sqm project will consist of three interconnected islands and house 620 villas and 1k apartments. The first island — Zen Island — will be inspired by Japanese architecture, the second — Reef Isle — will include a marina and buildings with curved forms, incorporating biophilic architecture, and the third will offer relaxation and wellness amenities, including a spa.

The timeline: Palm Hills is currently working with local authorities on final approvals, with construction set to begin in April or May 2026, and deliveries expected around three to three and a half years later. Meanwhile, the developer is seeking financing from UAE banks for the project and expects to sign term sheets very soon.

More in the pipeline: The developer is also exploring prospects for a second project in Abu Dhabi, as well as in Dubai, Mansour said. Further afield, Palm Hills is in discussions for potential developments in Saudi Arabia, with Riyadh and Jeddah currently under consideration. The company is also planning to launch a new project in Egypt’s 6th of October City in 1Q 2026, alongside another development in the New Administrative Capital scheduled for the same period.

REMEMBER- The company’s board approved its expansion to the UAE via the establishment of a subsidiary and wholly owned limited liability company in Abu Dhabi back in February.

Other Egyptian developers are pivoting towards the Emirates, including Ora Developers, which launched a coastal 4.8 mn sqm development between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, named Bayn, with an estimated cost of USD 10 bn. The developer opened its UAE headquarters in Dubai, with plans to triple its workforce by the end of the year. Besides Bayn, the firm is building a family luxury community with Discovery Land Company.

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