A city within a city

Ziad Abushakara, General Director of Aldar EuroAsia Property Management, discussed the uniqueness of Abu Dhabi Plaza, its strategic significance, and how it is shaping the future of commercial real estate in Kazakhstan.

Mr. Abushakara, Abu Dhabi Plaza is often described as a landmark project for Astana. What makes the project a benchmark for the region?

— Abu Dhabi Plaza is Kazakhstan’s largest and most ambitious mixed-use development of international scale, covering 500,000 m² and conceived as a true «city within a city».

The complex includes two modern «Class A» office towers, business apartments, a shopping mall, and a five-star Sheraton hotel. It also features the tallest tower in Central Asia — 311 meters and 75 floors —making Abu Dhabi Plaza one of Astana’s key architectural icons.

This synergy creates a self-contained ecosystem, where people can work, live, shop, and unwind — all within one integrated destination. In a fast-paced urban rhythm, that’s not a luxury — it’s a competitive advantage.

The office component is often called premium. How do you position it?

— Abu Dhabi Plaza offers 84,000 m² of «Class A» office space, accommodating more than 12,000 workplaces.

«Class A» means more than prestige — it’s about meeting the highest international standards: advanced engineering, energy efficiency, safety, quality and a strong supporting infrastructure.

We provide flexible solutions — ready-to-use offices starting from 250 m², shell & core formats for customized layouts, and even full-floor options. This allows companies to shape their workspace and reflect their corporate identity.

The complex is located in the very center of the capital. How important is that for its positioning?

— Location is Abu Dhabi Plaza’s unique advantage — right in the heart of Astana, steps away from the city’s main business and cultural hubs.

Its modern architecture blends seamlessly with the nearby linear park’s green zone, creating a harmony between urban energy and nature.

The atmosphere evokes Midtown Manhattan — dynamic, inspiring, and genuinely comfortable. From the windows, panoramic city and park views provide both a sense of metropolitan prestige and visual tranquility — a balance that defines Abu Dhabi Plaza’s character.

Sustainability is a growing global trend. How does Abu Dhabi Plaza meet these standards?

— Abu Dhabi Plaza is LEED-certified, confirming its energy efficiency, safety, and strong environmental responsibility. The project integrates modern sustainable technologies — energy-efficient glazing, eco-friendly construction materials, a multi-stage air filtration system, and a four-pipe fan coil system that ensure clean air and optimal indoor comfort. All these solutions meet the highest international standards for contemporary office buildings.

A key focus is water efficiency — through the installation of water-saving fixtures and smart consumption strategies, the building has significantly reduced potable water use, helping to conserve natural resources and lower operational costs.

Equally important is waste management: the complex provides dedicated areas for the separate collection of paper, glass, plastic, wood, and metal, supporting recycling and environmentally responsible operations.

The project also benefits from a sustainable location — Abu Dhabi Plaza is within walking distance of several bus routes and has direct access to the Light Rail Transit (LRT), encouraging the use of public transport. In addition, designated parking spaces for eco-friendly vehicles help reduce emissions and improve air quality.

Abu Dhabi Plaza is located within the AIFC zone. What does that mean for tenants?

— It’s a major advantage. Tenants benefit from the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) ecosystem — including a common law framework, tax incentives, simplified regulation, and access to a global business community.

Thus, residents gain not only a prestigious location but also practical tools for growth and international positioning.

How do the mall, apartments, and hotel enhance the «city within a city» concept?

— Abu Dhabi Plaza is a holistic ecosystem where every element complements the other, forming a balanced space for living, working, and leisure.

The shopping mall is one of the main attractions — spanning 26,000 m² across two levels, with over 50 global and local brands and around 20 cafés and restaurants.

Among its tenants: Lacoste, Mango, Starbucks, Mohito, Reserved, SuperStep, GANT, Dyson, Twinset, Pinko, Patrizia Pepe, Tombolini, Adili, Global Nomads, Kotofey, Detskiy Mir, Galmart, LC Waikiki, and others.

Today, the mall has also become a cultural hub — hosting art exhibitions, festivals, live concerts, and creative performances that draw both locals and visitors. Abu Dhabi Plaza is not just a destination — it’s an experience. From morning espresso at Starbucks to an evening concert in the atrium, every corner reflects a cosmopolitan rhythm rarely found in the region

In the near future, new features such as an all-season ice rink, roller arena, and creative spaces will further transform Abu Dhabi Plaza into a dynamic urban lifestyle destination.

The business apartments cater to long-term residents — entrepreneurs, executives, and professionals working in Astana — offering top security, 24/7 services, and international-level comfort.

The five-star Sheraton hotel completes the ecosystem, ideal for business travelers with its conference facilities, event venues, business center, high-speed Wi-Fi, and Marriott restaurants.

Guests, partners, and teams can meet, stay, and work within one complex, eliminating logistical barriers and enhancing overall efficiency. The synergy among office tenants, residents, and hotel guests creates a premium daily audience and stable retail traffic, where business, retail, and hospitality reinforce one another. As a result, Abu Dhabi Plaza has become a new-generation lifestyle destination where work, leisure, and daily life coexist in harmony.

Abu Dhabi Plaza creates jobs and supports the growth of multiple sectors — from retail and hospitality to local services. Our mission is to attract leading Kazakh and international companies, support local businesses, foster new employment opportunities, and shape a modern business landscape for the capital in line with global development standards.