ABU Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (Adnec) has begun construction on Phase One of the Dh3.5 billion ($952.9 million) Al Ain Convention Centre district, located near the popular Al Jimi area of the city.

The district is a first-of-its-kind development for the city and comprises a state-of-the-art convention centre, a cultural centre, hotels, a serviced apartment complex, and a multi-storey car-park. It includes a cluster of residential and commercial low-rise buildings within an integrated micro-city that places the convention centre at the heart of the development.
The creation of a natural and sustainable environment will be emphasised throughout the development, with open spaces connected by walkways and several areas designed to be free of cars, key elements in the project design. Also, among the several noteworthy components is a wadi (waterway) that runs adjacent to the Wadi Hotel, wich is a part of the development.
Shankland Cox is the architect on the project.
Adnec has appointed Al Fara’a General Contracting as the contractor for the first phase, involving extension of the existing hall located onsite.
J R Gangaramani, president and executive chairman of the Al Fara’a Integrated Construction Group, said: “We have commenced with the turnkey delivery of this extension after having completed the initial celebration hall in 2002. This installment is already ahead of its scheduled handover in September 2010.”
Contractors for the remaining elements of the master development are expected to be appointed over the coming months.