Nakheel Properties announces new master plan for Dubai Islands

Nakheel Properties, the Dubai-based world-leading master developer and that of Palm Jumeirah, on Monday unveiled a new vision for Dubai Islands which will redefine the concept of waterfront living.

Comprised of five islands with a total area of 17 sq km, Dubai Islands have been designed to enhance the wellbeing and lifestyles of residents and visitors. 

Aligning with Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, Dubai Islands (formerly known as Deira Islands) will reinforce the Emirate’s position as a global destination of choice for residents, visitors and investors. Each island will have its own unique offerings, with innovative living experiences, cultural hubs, recreational sport beaches and beach clubs, all in one interconnected location within easy access of the city and airport.

The islands will be home to over 80 resorts and hotels, including luxury and wellness resorts, boutique, family and eco-conscious hotels, supporting Dubai’s ambition to boost the tourism and hospitality sector by increasing the number of hotel keys.

With over 20 km of beaches, including a Blue Flag certified beach, approximately two sq km of parks and open spaces and premium golf courses overlooking the Arabian Gulf, Dubai Islands will increase the length of beaches and areas dedicated to public parks.

A well-connected network of marinas promenades and pathways for water and road transportation, walking and biking support the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan in developing vibrant and healthy communities.

Dubai Economy

Dubai’s economy, which last year rebounded strongly from the coronavirus-induced slowdown, has carried the growth momentum into this year, supported by the resurgent real estate and tourism sectors.

According to Dubai Statistics Centre, Dubai’s economy grew 6.2% in 2021 and the Emirates GDP expanded 5.9% in the first quarter of 2022. This was mostly due to spiralling oil prices.

Even the number of tourists has registered an impressive growth and supported the Emirate’s non-oil economic growth.

Some 7.12 million international tourists visited the Emirate in the first half of 2022, about three times the 2.52 million tourists recorded in the same period last year, according to Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

Destination Within Destination

In his comments, Nakheel CEO Naaman Atallah said: “Dubai Islands are an integral part of the future vision for the Emirate, focusing on enhancing the health, happiness and wellbeing of residents and visitors, as well as providing the highest standards and variety of urban infrastructure and facilities. Dubai Islands will add to the Nakheel portfolio of residential, retail, hospitality and leisure developments, offering another destination within a destination.”

Dubai Islands are located along Dubai’s northern coastline and are easily accessible by land and sea through road bridges and water transport. The islands are within a short distance from the Dubai International Airport, Dubai Creek, Jumeirah and Downtown Dubai.

Nakheel is the developer behind palm-shaped islands in the Emirate and earlier this year launched the redevelopment of Jebel Ali Village, with plans to build new villas and townhouses at the iconic community.

It is not only developer encouraged by the strong economic rebound to revive expansion plans, acquiring portfolios and launching projects