BDP played a key role in the design of Surf Abu Dhabi, a groundbreaking surfing destination on Hudayriyat Island
Multidisciplinary practice, BDP was instrumental in the design of Surf Abu Dhabi, a world-class surfing destination on Hudayriyat Island that sets a new benchmark for sports and leisure facilities in the region. Developed in partnership with the Kelly Slater Wave Company, this state-of-the-art facility integrates cutting-edge engineering with people-centric design, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for surfing tourism.
The facility features the Surf Club, Beach Club, and FM building, all carefully designed to enhance the surfing experience. At its heart lies the world’s largest man-made wave pool, featuring a three-metre-deep basin capable of accommodating multiple surfers at a time. With waves reaching heights of up to eight feet, the pool employs an innovative reef design and one of the world’s largest winch gearboxes—technology tested at Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch in Lemoore, California. The result is an unparalleled high-performance surfing experience, boasting the world’s longest ride, biggest barrel, and largest wave pool of its kind.
As a sporting facility, Surf Abu Dhabi seamlessly integrates interior and exterior spaces, drawing inspiration from the surrounding aquatic environment and the craftsmanship of ancient surfboard design. Across its 75,000-square-metre site, the architecture employs natural stones, blackened steel, and timber to establish a cohesive and inviting place to be. The Surf Club entrance sets the tone with striking architectural features, including a cascading staircase, link bridges, and shallow pools of water, creating a journey of discovery to the wave basin.
The Surf Club is designed to cater to both amateur and professional surfers, with a Surfers Lounge that offers a relaxing retreat featuring soft furnishings and curated displays of surfing history. This adaptable space can also transform for private functions and live events. The Beach Club, meanwhile, introduces a biophilic design approach, blending natural materials and lush landscaping to create a vibrant communal space. With an infinity pool overlooking the wave basin, two restaurant floors, a bar, and large LED screens broadcasting live events, spectators are fully immersed in the action.
Surf Abu Dhabi is more than just an architectural achievement, it is a celebration of surfing heritage, innovation, and sustainable urban planning. By thoughtfully integrating elements of nature, culture, and sport, BDP has created a venue that has become a landmark for Abu Dhabi’s tourism and leisure offering. The successful hosting of the 2025 World Surf League Championship Tour in February 2025 further cements its status as one of the world’s premier surfing destinations.
Craig Howard, Head of BDP’s Abu Dhabi studio, said: “I’ve had the privilege of working on some remarkable projects across the UAE but Surf Abu Dhabi on Hudayriyat Island stands out as a pinnacle of innovation and collaboration. This world-class facility showcases the seamless integration of cutting-edge engineering and people-centric design. Witnessing the facility host the 2025 World Surf League Championship Tour was a testament to the project’s success and credit has to go to all involved in the design and build process. Here’s to pushing the boundaries of sports architecture even further.”
The completion of this ambitious project exemplifies Abu Dhabi’s vision to become a global leader in sports and leisure. The region’s bold ambition to redefine urban landscapes and deliver innovative, state-of-the-art destinations has paved the way for transformative projects that resonate on an international scale. Surf Abu Dhabi is a testament to this vision, offering a world-class facility that will inspire generations of surfers and spectators alike.
