Sama Dubai's 'The Lagoons' development bags two awards at Cityscape Abu Dhabi

Designed to celebrate excellence in real estate development and investment in the Middle East, Cityscape Abu Dhabi Real Estate Awards were presented at a gala ceremony at the Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi.

Industry professionals and senior executives from the real estate industry, as well as several high profile guests from the region, were present at the ceremony to honour their peers for outstanding achievements.

Winners were chosen by a panel comprising the most acclaimed international industry experts. Entries were sorted into seven key areas, creating a total of 12 distinct categories.

The Lagoons was awarded 'Best Mixed-Use Development' for its unique concept, components, overall planning and vision.

The second award was in the 'Best Corporate Social Responsibility' category for The Lagoons' vigorous efforts to preserve and enhance wildlife in its surrounding area and its drive to obtain international protection and recognition for its neighbouring Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary.

Abdulsalam Almarri, The Lagoons CEO, said:

'These awards are more than a recognition of excellence, they are an assertion of the vision embodied in The Lagoons. Combining the attributes of the best developer with the most socially conscious member of the community makes The Lagoons the development of choice for home owners and investors. Well aware that these awards are keenly contested distinctions and that the judges panel faced a difficult task in selecting the nominees, we were glad The Lagoons won the awards. We are delighted to be recognized by the industry as the 'Best Mixed-Use Development''.

Located on the Dubai Creek, The Lagoons will be home to the much anticipated Dubai Opera House, offering residents and visitors alike the best of world culture at their doorsteps.

The development will also be home to the spectacular 'Dubai Towers - Dubai', the distinctively designed towers located in The Lagoons' central business district, as well as other landmark components and structures that will define Dubai's new skyline.

Protection of the environment is a key component of The Lagoons development, which will have a large number of parks and green belts, and feature reduced density housing and building heights in the ecologically sensitive buffer zone.

Cityscape Abu Dhabi 2008 exhibition will conclude on 16 May.