Abu Dhabi residents plagued by construction noise

As construction work directly behind American's back garden is outside of the compound, the community management is saying there is nothing that can be done.

ABU DHABI // For one homeowner, noise pollution from nearby construction works is having a detrimental effect on both his personal and professional life.

“I’ve been working in Abu Dhabi since 2012, after retiring from the US Air Force,” said MK, an American, who asked that only his initials be used.

The 43-year-old has been living in Al Reef villas, near Abu Dhabi airport since moving here.

“I lived in Arabian Village [an Al Reef community] for the first three years, renting a two-bedroom,” he said. “Last year, my wife and I purchased a single-row two-bedroom villa on Street 2 in Mediterranean Village.”

He said about a month ago demolition work began on the other side of his fence from his back garden.

“Daily, we are assaulted by the sounds of jackhammers and heavy equipment,” he said.

MK said he reported the matter to Manazel Real Estate, the community management company for Al Reef.

“We were told that nothing can be done about it, as it was ‘outside of their authority’, he said. “I have no real recourse but to involve the police, as they keep starting earlier and ending later.”

He said he shot a video of the construction shortly after 7am one morning as proof of the problem.

“My schedule fluctuates, due to my duties as a flight training instructor for the UAE Air Force detachment at Abu Dhabi Airport,” he said. “I sometimes fly late, or very early.

“I’m supposed to be afforded the opportunity for pre-mission crew rest, so I can safely execute my flight duties.

“This has become impossible due to the awful sound levels daily. The only day it isn’t a factor is Friday.

“They sometimes work all the way to sundown, and start at about 7am daily. It is absolutely unacceptable.”

Read more:

› Noisy neighbourhoods disturb UAE residents

› UAE authorities have rules to curb excessive noise

› UAE sound proofing company says services are in demand

› Noisy nights take toll on UAE residents' health