De Sousa Holdings Reveals Ambitious UAE Future City Concept Inspired by Emirati Heritage
The proposed 25-year urban masterplan combines traditional Emirati architecture with modern infrastructure, featuring a landmark observation tower, hospitality facilities and a distinctive clock-shaped road network.
A new vision for future urban development in the UAE has been introduced by De Sousa Holdings LLC, which has presented an ambitious masterplan combining contemporary city planning with the country's cultural heritage. The concept was unveiled at the International Real Estate & Investment Show (IREIS 2026), held at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, and outlines a long-term development vision spanning 25 years.
The proposal focuses on creating an integrated urban environment where infrastructure, commercial activities, hospitality and community facilities work together. Its design places particular importance on improving residents' quality of life while incorporating elements that reflect Emirati traditions and national identity.
Edgar Gerson, Founder, President and Architect of De Sousa Holdings, explained that the concept is based on the idea of generating economic value while prioritising happiness, sustainability and the needs of future generations.
Unique City Layout Designed Around a Clock Concept
One of the most distinctive features of the proposed development is its clock-inspired urban layout. The road network would follow a circular arrangement based on clock positions, allowing people to identify locations through numbered buildings and directional references rather than relying entirely on GPS navigation.
The proposed city would extend approximately 20 kilometres from east to west and 18 kilometres from north to south. Its central areas would be connected through a planned road system designed to improve accessibility and reduce unnecessary travel.
According to the concept, the arrangement of roads and facilities would help minimise traffic congestion, shorten commuting times and improve the movement of residents and visitors across different parts of the city.
The masterplan also aims to make infrastructure more efficient by integrating essential services into the overall urban design.
Observation Tower and Traditional Arabic Coffee Pot-Inspired Hotel
The central architectural concept draws inspiration from the UAE dirham and traditional Emirati cultural symbols. Two particularly prominent features are a landmark observation tower and a hotel designed around the shape of a traditional Arabic coffee pot, known locally as a dallah.
The observation tower is envisioned as a structure resembling the number one. It is proposed to be located on an island overlooking the Abu Dhabi Corniche, where it could offer panoramic views of the surrounding city and waterfront.
Another major attraction would be a five-star hotel inspired by the traditional dallah, a symbol closely associated with Emirati hospitality and cultural identity.
The architectural design is also expected to incorporate seven coffee cups, representing the seven emirates of the UAE and highlighting the country's national unity.
Through these design elements, the proposal seeks to give the development a recognisable identity while connecting modern architecture with the country's traditional customs and heritage.
Commercial and Hospitality Facilities at the Centre
Beyond its architectural landmarks, the proposed masterplan includes a range of facilities intended to support business, tourism and community activities.
The central complex is planned around architectural elements resembling sugar bowls and a date bowl. These areas would accommodate conference facilities and wedding halls, while the surrounding structure would be developed as a shopping mall.
The proposed arrangement aims to bring retail, hospitality, business events and social activities into one connected destination.
If implemented, these facilities could contribute to the UAE's wider tourism and commercial development ambitions by introducing a distinctive destination inspired by local culture.
Integrated Infrastructure and Sustainable Urban Planning
Infrastructure forms another important part of De Sousa Holdings' proposed city concept. The masterplan identifies essential services such as electricity, water supply, internet connectivity, sewage systems and waste management as part of the wider development framework.
Recycling and other resource-management facilities are also included in the proposal, reflecting an emphasis on more efficient urban operations.
The road network and distribution of public facilities are intended to reduce travel distances and improve accessibility. The approach is designed to limit unnecessary energy consumption, support productivity and create more opportunities for families to spend time together.
The long-term planning framework also considers future population growth and the need for infrastructure that can accommodate changing urban requirements.
A Long-Term Vision for the UAE's Urban Development
De Sousa Holdings' proposal presents an alternative approach to large-scale city planning by combining cultural identity, modern infrastructure and economic activity within a single masterplan.
Its focus on traditional Emirati symbols, distinctive architecture and integrated facilities offers a different perspective on how future developments could reflect the country's heritage while responding to modern urban needs.
The 25-year development vision was introduced at IREIS 2026, providing an opportunity to present the concept to the wider real estate and investment community.
While the proposal outlines an extensive vision for a future city, further details regarding its location, investment requirements, regulatory approvals and construction schedule have not been established in the announcement.
The concept therefore represents a proposed long-term urban development vision rather than a confirmed construction project. Its eventual implementation and contribution to the UAE's real estate landscape will depend on subsequent planning and development decisions.
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