Introduction:-
Sharjah is considered as one of the fast growing real estate investment areas as it consists of two head turning master communities Aljada and Maryam Island. Both communities consist of various high end developers with the assurance of stronger returns in future catering towards different lifestyles.
Aljada provides a vibe of βcity within a cityβ through its schools, parks and smart tech homes all around whereas Maryam Island provides various brand name residences along with resort amenities and beachfront living. In this article a detailed breakdown of Aljada vs Maryam Island in accordance with key features, prices, yields and growth outlook is provided so that one can decide which address suits them the best in accordance with their investment goals.
About Aljada:-
Aljada is a one of the master planned communities developed by Arada in the year 2017. It is being branded as Sharjahβs flagship community as it merges residential, commercial, education and lifestyle facilities under one masterplan. Further being designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, it consists of Madar at Aljada which is a leisure entertainment complex and central park that opened in 2020 consisting of integrated offices, schools, hotels in partnership with Emaar Hospitality all are to be completed by 2025. Moreover out of 25000 homes 7500 have been handed over along with amenities and infrastructure.
About Aljada key features:-
Smart city features: It consists of tech enabled homes along with smart utilities and energy efficient designs throughout Aljada.
Large unit mix: There are 25,000 units being planned consisting of apartments, townhouses and villas.
Green and Entertainment Spaces: There is around 250000 square meters of green spaces provided with entertainment precincts and central park area.
Connectivity: Being located at one of the prime locations of E88/E311 junction, providing quick access to Dubai and major highways.
About Maryam Island:-
Maryam Island is a premium waterfront residential and mixed use community in Sharjah being jointly developed by Eagle Hills and Shurooq. It was launched in early 2018 consisting of a budget of AED 2.4 billion being spread over 460,000 square meters featuring 1890 apartments and 600 hotel rooms along with retail, recreation and hospitality amenities. Further it consists of 38 residential towers with a 900 metre waterfront promenade, parks, jogging tracts etc.
About Maryam Island Key Features:-
Waterfront Lifestyle: It consists of a beach access, landscaped promenade along with some of the top rated projects like GEM Residences, Layla Residences, Rehan Residences etc.
Community Infrastructure: It is being integrated with retail/dining consisting of luxury hotels, children play areas and beach clubs.
Connectivity: It is located 30 minutes from Dubai through AI Taawun and AI Ittihad Roads, located nearby Sharjah Airport, AI Majaz and AI Mamzar destinations.
Amenities: Maryam Park consists of luxurious amenities including souq, spa, retail outlet, fitness clubs, pools and a community park.
Factor to Invest in Aljada:-
Affordability: Villas located in Aljada consist of an average price range of AED 1.5M for 2 bed, AED 1.9M for 3 bed, AED 2.7M for 4 bed, AED 4.3M for 5 bed. Rentals ranging between 109k to 148k per year for 2 to 3 beds.
Rental Yields: It emerges around 8 to 10% annual rental yields.
Growth Potential: There are various ongoing developments taking place that are expected to be completed by 2025 including upcoming hotels and retail like skate park and Madar hub that attracts tenants and visitors.
Smart City Appeal: consists of tech enabled living along with dedicated schools, healthcare, cultural and leisure spaces that establishes it as family friendly and modern.
Factor to Invest in Maryam Island:-
Competitive Prices: The price of 1 bed begins around 780 to 880k.
Current ROI: The reported rental yield is approximately 6.9 to 7% with the expectation to increase it around 9 to 10% in next few years.
Luxury Waterfront Premium: There are beachfront towers with branded residences, penthouses and terraces being provided that commands premium prices and luxury appeal.
Developer Reliability: Eagle hills and Shurooq ensures credibility, government support and phased delivery.
Comparative Analysis: Aljada vs Maryam Island:-
| Criteria | Aljada | Maryam Island |
|---|---|---|
| Project Type | Mixed use mega community consisting of residential, entertainment, business. | Waterfront luxury residential with hotels, promenade and retail. |
| Developers | Arada | Eagle Hills and Shurooq |
| Price Range | 2 bed apartments: 1.5M AED; Rental 109 to 148k AED per year. | 1 bed: 780k to 880k AED 2 bed: 1.2M to 1.3M AED; Rental 55k to 122k AED per year. |
| ROI | 8 to 10% across the community; considered suitably strong for family units | 6.9 to 7% current, trending to 9 to 10% overtime. |
| Lifestyle and Amenities | Central Park, Skate Park, entertainment hub etc | Beachfront living, promenade, luxe hotels, spa, waterfront leisure. |
| Connectivity | Directly connected to dubai border via E88/E311 near Muwaileh/ university city | Located 30 minutes from Dubai via major roads near AI Khan, AI Majaz, airport. |
| Future Growth | Completion in 2025; consist of mid to long term capital growth with full delivery. | Completion till 2027 with high rising interest in waterfront, high end living. |
| Potential Downsides | Have some construction dust, commute delays to Dubai. | Limited external services faced by residents and traffic to mainland |
Top Place to Invest in Aljada:-
Aljada being the largest mixed use community of Sharjah offers a wide range of investment opportunities across apartments, villas and townhouses. On the basis of current listings and development phases, some of the top rated projects for investment purposes:
- Arada Safa at Aljada: It is one of the new developments that redefines standard of living by providing high end finishes of interiors combined with elegant and contemporary architecture presenting its stunning collection of 1 to 3 bedroom apartments at Sharjah.
- Arada Nesba 3 at Aljada: It is a residential space providing modern living through its unmatched convenience in one of the most promising locations, a 9 storey residential tower specifically built for people looking for the combination of elegance and comfort.
- Arada the Gate 4 at Aljada: It is a new development providing uniquely designed apartments with a suitable combination of comfort and elegance to the residents.
Top Place to Invest in Maryam Island:-
Maryam Island is one of the most luxurious waterfront destinations in Sharjah. Being backed by Eagle hills and Shurooq, these projects offer premium finishes along with scenic views and beachside living. Some of the top rated projects for investment purposes are:
GEM Residences: This is a premium 9 storey tower featuring 98 exclusive 1 to 4 bedroom units inclusive of penthouses and townhouses. Considered perfect for luxury investors that targets high income tenants or higher resale value.
Rehan Residences: It is a residential development with the major focus being on community living. Further it encourages natural lighting and seamless indoor outdoor flow.
Layla Residences: This residential development provides a unique blend of comfort and aesthetic appeal focusing on contemporary interiors with community facing balconies. It majorly attracts tenants that are seeking peace while being connected with the main attraction of the island.
Conclusion:
If you are the person who is looking for higher rental yields along with the family friendly infrastructure providing an all in one urban community then Aljada would be best for you. However If you are the person that considered waterfront luxury with tourist appeal and long term capital upside then go for Maryam Island. Both of the two communities consist of a solid investment potential, however you are the one who will decide whether you need a smart city buzz or seaside resort lifestyle in accordance with your strategy and budget.
