Local developer Aldar Properties is moving ahead with three major new projects in 2011, including a mall and water park on Yas island and a residential development on Abu Dhabi island.

Contractors have until 6 March to submit bids for the main construction package on the estimated AED2.5bn ($680m) shopping development on Yas island. This is the largest real-estate project to be tendered in the UAE since the global downturn began in 2008.

The work will involve the construction of the Yas mall, northeast and northwest decked car parks, infrastructure and associated roads. The project will also involve hard and soft landscaping works.

The total built up area, including car parks and landscaped areas, of the project will be approximately 1.2 million square metres.

Aldar hopes to award the contract in the second quarter of 2011, and expects the project to be completed in the third quarter of 2013.

The local/Belgian Six Construct Abu Dhabi was awarded a contract to build the mall when it was originally tendered in 2008, but the project was put on hold and Aldar has since decided to retender the contract.

In addition to the mall project, Aldar is shortlisting companies for the contract to build a water park on the Yas development. At least 12 contractors had submitted bids for the project.

UK-based Atkins is the consultant for the 16.4 hectare water park project. The park will have more than 40 rides and attractions. The project is scheduled for completion in 2012 (MEED 7:9:10).

Aldar is also moving ahead with its estimated AED600-700m Al-Bateen Park development on Abu Dhabi island. The developer awarded the local Seidco General Contracting the main construction contract in November 2010, and the local contractor has already started work on the residential project. The residential project will surround the old cemetery in the Al-Bateen area.

The project will involve the construction of 75 villas and about 280 apartments. The apartments will be located in 12 five-to-six storey buildings. The development will also contain retail and fitness facilities. The construction work is expected to take 18 months to complete.

Dubai-based Dewan Architects & Engineers is the consultant for the project.