A CONTRACT has been signed to develop a Dh1.24-billion ($337 million) housing project in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi.

The agreement for Ghayathi Housing project was signed between Abu Dhabi General Services (Musanada) and the contractors National Transport & Construction Company and Al Dhabi Contracting Establishment.

Ghayathi Housing project, a residential neighbourhood especially designed for UAE nationals, comprises two sectors that will be built by the two contractors. The first sector consisting of 433 residential units will be executed by Al Dhabi Contracting Establishment while the second consisting of 353 units will be executed by National Transport and Construction Company.

Musanada, which has appointed WS Atkins as the supervision consultant for the housing project, will be responsible for implementing the infrastructural work of the project, as well as ensuring the delivery of this large-scale 20-month housing project. Work on the development was due to commence last month.

Covering an area of about 420 hectares, it will consist of 786 two-storey five-bedroom villas with external service quarters and majlis, each with an approximate area of 537 sq m.

The project includes a wide range of service buildings and public facilities such as mosques, shops, schools and entertainment centres.

The Ghayathi Housing project will see 181 residential units completed within the next 12 months.