Manchester City and Ohana Development Unveil Landmark Abu Dhabi Residential Project

Manchester City Football Club and Ohana Development have formalised a multi-billion-dirham collaboration that marks an ambitious expansion of the club’s brand into real estate and lifestyle sectors in the Middle East. The landmark deal will see Ohana Development and Manchester City launch the Manchester City Yas Residences by Ohana, a first-of-its-kind branded residential community on Abu Dhabi’s iconic Yas Canal waterfront.

Spanning 1.67 million square metres, the development is poised to become one of the most significant urban residential destinations in the UAE, blending premium housing with commercial, educational, and leisure facilities. The vision goes beyond typical club licensing; it integrates Manchester City’s global sporting identity into an immersive lifestyle destination that targets long-term living, tourism, and sports-centric community engagement.

For Manchester City, this initiative represents a strategic diversification of brand assets. Ferran Soriano, Chief Executive Officer of City Football Group, described the project as a “landmark collaboration” that harnesses the club’s global reach to deliver a “distinctively club-branded” residential experience. Soriano emphasised that the partnership leverages Manchester City’s worldwide appeal while driving economic value for Abu Dhabi’s evolving lifestyle and property sectors.

Husein Salem, CEO of Ohana Development, underscored the synergy with Manchester City’s forward-looking vision. He highlighted the alignment of City’s identity with Ohana’s design ethos, projecting that the development will set a new benchmark for branded residential projects in the region. The residences are expected to feature a wide range of amenities, including upscale apartments, retail outlets, office spaces, schools, parks, and community centres designed to serve both local residents and international buyers.

Industry analysts view this collaboration as part of Abu Dhabi’s broader drive to attract global capital and enhance its status as a premier destination for luxury living, elite sports, and experiential tourism. The project not only deepens Manchester City’s footprint in the Middle East but also signals a growing trend among elite sports organisations to monetise brand prestige through property and lifestyle ventures.Further details on design partners, construction timelines, and residential phases are expected later this year, with commercial sales and leasing strategies to be announced ahead of launch.