One of the largest operators of purpose-built economic zones in Abu Dhabi, ZonesCorp, has recently signed a contract with Block 7 Investments (a joint venture of EFIRE Capital Holdings Limited, Abu Dhabi and Serba Dinamik Holdings Berhad, Malaysia). The agreement will look into the development of Block 7 Innovation Hub at the Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAB).
The main focus is on sectors like healthcare, computer science, robotics, mobility, renewable energy and sustainable advance materials. With the help of ultra-modern infrastructure, robust services and a unique setup to link with the intelligent living space of ZonesCorp’s existing ecosystem, Block 7 will work as a breeding space for innovation driven industries and will act as a platform for start-ups.
Abdullah Al Hameli, Head of Industrial Cities and Free Zone Cluster at Abu Dhabi Ports, said, “The announcement of the Block 7 Innovation Hub development in the Industrial City of Abu Dhabi marks a key milestone in the emirate’s progressive efforts to position Abu Dhabi as a world-leading hub for innovation.”
The ZonesCorp’s Advanced Manufacturing Cluster will be of great help for the development of Block 7 Innovation Hub and will also help in servicing the biopharma, environmental technologies, mobility and ICT sectors.
With an area over 820,000 square meters, the hub will also include a host of IT facilities, smart office complexes, exhibition centers and retail & entertainment spaces.
The agreement was signed by Mohamed Al Khadar Al Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer, ZonesCorp, and Dato’ Dr. Ir. Mohd Abdul Karim Bin Abdullah of Block 7 Investments LLC in a ceremony hosted at ZonesCorp’s headquarters, in the presence of Abdullah Al Hameli.
“The innovation hub will be helpful in the overall development of Abu Dhabi and will compliment its industrial strength and will open up numerous opportunities for the coming generations”, said Al Hameli.
“Leveraging ZonesCorp’s growing industrial ecosystem, this project will not only deliver ground-breaking concepts and solutions for the benefit of the global manufacturing industry, but will also showcase how we can combine technology, innovation, and the human element within a single environment,” said Mohamed Al Khadar Al Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer, ZonesCorp.
As the innovation hub in Abu Dhabi is set up, it will pave way for the future developments in the emirate. The chance for foreign investment and numerous job opportunities for the younger generation is one of the main highlights of the innovation hub. With an aim to introduce new options for the people of Abu Dhabi, the innovation hub will indeed be one of the promising projects in the emirate.