It was once known as a town that simply served the UAE's oil industry. But a raft of new parks, shops, markets and beach developments are set to transform Ruwais. Adnoc, Abu Dhabi's state-owned oil company, is overhauling the Al Dhafra town to encourage more people to live there. And Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed, the Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra, visited the town over the past few days to check on the improvements. Chief among the projects he inspected was the "Ruwais Central Park", which includes tennis and football facilities. He also toured a traditional market which will have dozens of shops when fully opened. Ruwais spans about seven square kilometres and Adnoc is planning to build the world's largest refining and petrochemical complex there. At least 3,000 new homes, new health centres, as well as the expansion of the public transport network are also planned. It is hoped that the measures will encourage more workers to stay for weekends and improve the after-work life. During his tour, Sheikh Hamdan said the country's leadership were committed to developing Al Dhafra especially in housing, roads and transport.
