Abu Dhabi-based developer Modon Properties (Modon) has partnered with Kelly Slater Wave Company (KSWC), the world experts in man-made wave technology, to create Surf Abu Dhabi, scheduled to open later this year.
Featuring the world’s longest ride and the world’s biggest barrel, as well as the world’s largest man-made wave facility, Surf Abu Dhabi will be designed to appeal to everyone – from beginners to elite surfers.
Located on Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi’s sport, leisure and recreation destination, the elite-level surfing facility will take its place alongside other major additions to the city’s sporting infrastructure including a 3,500-seat velodrome equipped to stage international indoor cycling competitions.
Bill O’Regan, CEO of Modon, said: “At Modon, our role is to support the growth of Abu Dhabi’s ambitions and sports asset development strategy which is contributing towards a legacy of sporting excellence.”
“As the world’s premier man-made surf experience, Surf Abu Dhabi is specified to host major international surf competitions. It is a high-performance destination which will offer world-class surfers the perfect conditions to train or compete, while also growing the region’s surfing community, and inspiring wider society to embrace a healthy new activity.”
“When we opened the first wave, the mystery it created and excitement that ensued was something I’m not sure many have experienced,” said Kelly Slater, 11-time World Surf League Champion and founder of KSWC. “Surfing reaches people in all corners of the globe and I’m always surprised with who gravitates towards this world. Having a KSWC wave in Abu Dhabi is something I’ve never dreamt would happen but here it is. Unbelievable. While not many would have predicted the location for the project, there are great synergies with Abu Dhabi and like KSWC they are always innovating and ahead of the curve. This is going to be a lot of fun for so many people.”
Jeff Fleeher, President of Kelly Slater Wave Company, said: “As a global hub for tourism, sport, and business, with diverse peoples and cultures, Abu Dhabi is the perfect place for us to showcase KSWC’s unmatched wave technology and surf experience. We’re fortunate to partner with Modon and join Hudayriyat Island’s incredible ecosystem of sport and recreation to foster new participation and enthusiasm for surfing in the Middle East.”