ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates, Jan 28 (GDM) — UAE developer Ohana Development has signed an agreement with Manchester City Football Club to launch a club-branded residential community on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island, the companies said Tuesday.
The project, titled Manchester City Yas Residences by Ohana, will rise along the Yas Canal waterfront and span about 1.67 million square metres (413 acres), combining luxury housing with branding tied to the English Premier League champion.
Ohana said the development will draw on Manchester City’s global appeal and legacy while reflecting the developer’s contemporary design approach. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed, and a timeline for construction and handover was not announced.
“Partnering with Manchester City marks a significant milestone for Ohana Development and reflects our long-standing commitment to Abu Dhabi,” said Husein Salem, chief executive of Ohana Development. He said the project aims to create “future-ready communities” aligned with the emirate’s evolving lifestyle and real estate landscape.
Ferran Soriano, chief executive of City Football Group — the parent company of Manchester City — described the venture as a “landmark project” that brings the club into a premium residential setting through distinctive branding.
“Ohana Development is highly regarded for working with leading global brands, translating their influence into high-end, design-driven residential experiences,” Soriano said, adding that the partnership will leverage the club’s global reach and strong regional presence.
Branded residences — homes developed in partnership with luxury, fashion or sports brands — have become increasingly popular in the Gulf, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as developers seek to attract international buyers and investors. Such projects often include themed design elements, exclusive amenities and lifestyle services linked to the partner brand.
Yas Island is one of Abu Dhabi’s flagship mixed-use destinations, home to attractions such as Ferrari World, Yas Marina Circuit, theme parks, hotels and waterfront communities. The emirate has been pushing high-profile real estate and tourism developments as part of its broader economic diversification strategy.
Manchester City, one of the most successful clubs in recent European football, has expanded its commercial footprint globally through partnerships, academies and lifestyle ventures, particularly in the Middle East, where City Football Group is headquartered.