
Abu Dhabi is building the world's first AI city and it's going to be your new best friend
You've heard of smart cities. Now meet the genius one. Abu Dhabi is about to launch Aion Sentia, the world's first cognitive AI city and it's being designed to literally think for you.
Set for completion in 2027, this futuristic hub is more than just high-speed WiFi and electric buses. It's a place where the walls, streets and systems will learn from you, anticipate your needs and adapt in real-time. Your daily latte? Already ordered. Forgot your anniversary? Not only will the city remember it – it'll book the restaurant, too.
At the heart of it all is MAIA,a first-of-its-kind AI app that connects you with everything – public transport, healthcare, utilities, even dinner reservations – all while learning your quirks, preferences and routines. Quirky? Maybe. Convenient? Extremely.
Aion Sentia is the brainchild of My Aion Inc., an Italian AI firm teaming up with Bold Technologies, part of Bold Holding. The whole thing is backed by a whopping Dhs9 billion BOT (Build-Operate-Transfer) agreement, meaning it's not just a cool concept – it's actually happening.
But what makes this different from other 'smart city' promises? Instead of bouncing between disconnected apps, Aion Sentia works like one seamless digital brain. Want to reduce your energy bill? Ask MAIA. Need a doctor's appointment? She's on it. Emergency in your building? MAIA will alert the right authorities – without you even needing to dial.
This isn't just a boost for convenience – it's a bold leap for the UAE's AI ambitions. The project will create jobs, fuel homegrown tech innovation and even partner with local universities to train the next generation of digital minds.
Where will it land first? Naturally, in Abu Dhabi – where innovation is already woven into the city's DNA. But the goal is global expansion.
Daniele Marinelli, CEO of My Aion Inc. said: 'This city will not just be smart; it will be cognitive — learning and evolving with its residents.'
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Time Out Abu Dhabi
13 hours ago
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
An incredible Bvlgari resort is coming to Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi's luxury hospitality scene is set for a major glow-up. Italian luxury brand Bvlgari has announced a new resort and private mansions development in the UAE capital, in partnership with local real estate powerhouse Eagle Hills. The project, named Bvlgari Resort & Mansions Abu Dhabi, is set to open in 2030 and promises to become one of the region's most exclusive escapes and one of Abu Dhabi's best hotels. The new destination will be set on a private, horseshoe-shaped island with sweeping views of the open sea on one side and the iconic Qasr Al Watan and Abu Dhabi skyline on the other. Think total seclusion, a dramatic sense of arrival and sunset views that could rival any in the region. Access will be via a purpose-built bridge or by sea, adding to the resort's sense of privacy and exclusivity. The project will include a luxury resort with 60 rooms and suites, 30 beachside villas with private pools and 90 high-end mansions. Each element is designed to blend Italian elegance with Arabian heritage, with architecture by Milan-based ACPV ARCHITECTS Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and landscape design by LAND SRL. The vision? A sculptural, gold-and-glass retreat rising from the sand – infused with regional identity and international flair. Guests can without a doubt expect the full Bvlgari experience: impeccable design, flawless service and world-class dining. The resort will feature signature restaurants such as Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, curated by award-winning chef and Hōseki, Bvlgari's exclusive Japanese concept. Also on offer will be a refined Turkish restaurant, the stylish Bvlgari Bar, La Spiaggia beachside dining and the brand's much-loved Il Caffè and Bvlgari Dolci. We're seriously not complaining. A standout wellness offering is also in the works. The resort will house a 2,000 sqm spa with a 25-meter lap pool, a state-of-the-art fitness centre and a landscaped wellness sanctuary designed to pay tribute to the region's cultural and environmental traditions. There's also a 40-berth private marina and Yacht Club with an exclusive membership programme, private beach and extensive water sports options, all designed to elevate the coastal lifestyle experience. For those looking to call this place home, the 90 private mansions – some with their own docks, no less, others with uninterrupted sea or cove views – promise a new level of waterfront living. Ranging from 1,650 to 2,500 sqm, the homes will come with private beaches, sweeping views and designs that fuse local influence with global sophistication. Behind the development is Eagle Hills, the real estate firm founded by Mohamed Alabbar, the name behind projects like Downtown Dubai and the Belgrade Waterfront. With developments in over 18 countries, Eagle Hills is no stranger to crafting destination landmarks – and this latest collaboration with Bvlgari looks set to do just that. The opening may still be five years away, but Bvlgari Resort & Mansions Abu Dhabi is already shaping up to be one of the capital's most talked-about future addresses. Jean-Christophe Babin, CEO of Bvlgari said: 'With Bvlgari Resort & Mansions Abu Dhabi, we continue our magnificent journey of bringing Bvlgari's distinctive elegance and craftsmanship to the world's most remarkable destinations. 'This project is a tribute to Abu Dhabi's unique cultural identity, blending timeless sophistication with modern luxury. This project will set a new milestone in Haute Hospitality and I'm particularly happy to develop it with our long-standing Retail Partner and friend, Mohamed Alabbar, always striving for the highest standards'. Mohamed Alabbar, Founder and Chairman of Eagle Hills, added: 'Abu Dhabi has always stood for vision and grace. This partnership with Bvlgari reaffirms our commitment to placing the Emirate at the epicentre of luxury living – where exceptional design, exclusivity, and Arabian soul converge.' Patricia Viel, CEO of ACPV ARCHITECTS, said: 'The project captures the best aspects of its location – secluded and immersed in nature and the sea – while remaining within easy reach of central Abu Dhabi. 'Life on the island is enriched by a diverse landscape, carefully designed environments, and sweeping views of both the sea and the city. The Bulgari Resort & Mansions offers a thoughtfully curated setting that fosters a strong sense of place. The interplay of architecture, natural surroundings, and exceptional amenities creates a distinctive and refined living environment.' More Abu Dhabi real estate These are the most popular places to buy and rent in Abu Dhabi right now No gatekeeping round here Modon's Muheira towers on Reem Island sell out on launch day This is pretty cool A new village in Abu Dhabi completely sold out in 24 hours A little slice of Tuscany right in the capital


Al Etihad
a day ago
- Al Etihad
Bvlgari to build its branded resort and residences project in Abu Dhabi
19 June 2025 19:08 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts has announced a partnership with Eagle Hills, an Abu Dhabi-based property developer, to establish a branded resort and residences project in the UAE the Bvlgari Resort & Mansions Abu Dhabi, the development is scheduled for completion in 2030. 'The branded residential and resort project will be nestled on a private island, characterised by its horseshoe-shape, and offering breathtaking views of the open sea, a sunset view on one side, and the majestic Qasr Al Watan, and city skyline on the other,' a statement from the company resort will comprise 60 rooms and suites along with 30 villas, each offering varied sea or city views. The residential component will include 90 mansions in different configurations, set within landscaped surroundings designed to reflect a blend of regional and Italian development will extend Abu Dhabi's corniche and will be accessible via a purpose-built bridge or by boat. The project's architecture will be handled by Milan-based ACPV ARCHITECTS, with landscaping overseen by LAND SRL. The companies noted that the design would follow contemporary sustainability Hills, founded by Emirati businessman Mohamed Alabbar, is leading the local development. Alabbar, known for several major real estate ventures, said: 'Abu Dhabi has always stood for vision and grace. This partnership with Bvlgari reaffirms our commitment to placing the emirate at the epicentre of luxury living – where exceptional design, exclusivity, and Arabian soul converge.'Jean-Christophe Babin, CEO of Bvlgari, described the project as part of the group's strategy to bring its signature approach to hospitality to key global destinations. 'This project is a tribute to Abu Dhabi's unique cultural identity, blending timeless sophistication with modern luxury,' he said. Patricia Viel, CEO of ACPV ARCHITECTS, added: 'The project captures the best aspects of its location – secluded and immersed in nature and the sea – while remaining within easy reach of central Abu Dhabi.' Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi


What's On
a day ago
- What's On
Abu Dhabi is getting a luxurious new Bvlgari Resort & Mansions
We have plenty of hotels that are currently in the construction phase in Abu Dhabi, and we've just received word that a new agreement has been signed to open a Bvlgari Resort & Mansions in Abu Dhabi. The new upcoming megaproject, which bears the name of the popular Italian luxury brand, will be nestled on a private island, characterised by its horseshoe shape. It is scheduled to open in 2030. Here's what we know about the Bvlgari Resort & Mansions 3 of 12 The resort will boast 60 elegantly designed rooms and suites (including two Bvlgari Suites and a Bvlgari Penthouse) plus 30 villas, each with a private pool, offering views of the sea or the skyline. The island will also be home to 90 exceptional mansions of different sizes and with unique characteristics. Its design will seamlessly be a blend of Italian elegance and Arabian heritage. Guests who check in will get breathtaking views of the blue sea and the orange sunset on one side, while the other side boasts views of the stunning Qasr Al Watan and city skyline. Remember, sustainability is still very important to the UAE. So important that UAE President HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan declared 2023 and 2024 (that's two years in a row) to be the 'Year of Sustainability.' In keeping with this very important theme, the construction and design of the project will be compliant with the best sustainability practices. The vision? It's shaped by Abu Dhabi's rich cultural tapestry and will embody a symbolic metaphor of glass and gold emerging from the sand, bringing together the theme of luxury and Emirati heritage. Across the island as well, design elements will bring together dunes and gardens in harmony, further reflecting this theme. It will transition seamlessly from varied geometries to soft natural forms, echoing both Italian artistry and Arabian tradition. To get to the luxurious property, a bridge will be built, or you can also reach it by sea. During your stay, you can soak in the indulgence of the room and resort, or you will be able to partake in a number of marine activities and water sports. The activities will also allow guests to explore some of the region's most pristine beaches and islands. It will also be home to a range of luxury facilities for wellness and recreation, including an exquisite, purpose-built Bvlgari Spa, spanning across 2,000 square meters. For those seeking relaxation, a number of world-class and state-of-the-art wellness amenities will be available here. The spa will also feature a 25-meter-long lap pool, a large fitness center, and an outdoor deck with mesmerising views of the sea. The resort will also be a base for a state-of-the-art Yacht Club with its own private beach, exclusive membership program, and a 40-berth marina. On the dining front, some of the signature restaurants announced include Il Ristorante – Niko Romito serving contemporary Italian cuisine, an intimate and exclusive Japanese dining concept Hōseki, a refined Turkish restaurant – La Spiaggia, and Bvlgari Bar. For quick bites, there's Bvlgari's signature Il Caffè and casual Italian restaurant – Bvlgari Dolci boutique, which will offer Italian pastries. For shoppers, a concept store called La Galleria will showcase a wide selection of items from hand-picked local and international designers. Speaking on the project, Jean-Christophe Babin, CEO of Bvlgari stated, 'This project is a tribute to Abu Dhabi's unique cultural identity, blending timeless sophistication with modern luxury.' We can't wait to check in! Images: Supplied > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in