In 2022, Nakheel showed off the rebranded and reimagined Dubai Islands, a project that’s set to be a game-changer in urban development.
The Dubai Islands: An Overview
Take a look at the map, and you’ll spot the Dubai Islands at the top of Dubai’s coast. These five islands cover 17 square kilometers for development and are set to play a key role in Dubai’s future. Right now, the developer is working on Island A, while they’re moving Islands B C, D, and E to match according to market demand.
Aligning with Dubai 2040 Goals
The Dubai Islands project isn’t standing alone; it’s a big part of the larger Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. When you go into the details, you’ll see how this project helps the emirate reach its big goals:
Expanding Tourism and Commerce
The plan aims to boost land for hotels and tourist spots by 134 %. Commercial areas will grow even more reaching 168 square kilometers. This growth matches Dubai’s goal to become a top global destination for tourists and businesses.
Enhancing Public Spaces
One of the most striking aspects of the plan is the commitment to public spaces. Public beaches will stretch by 400%. This change gives you more chances to enjoy the clean shoreline and take part in sea activities.
Preserving Nature
In keeping with Dubai’s push for sustainability, nature reserves and natural areas will cover 60% of the emirate’s total space. This mix of growth and preservation makes sure the Dubai Islands will be both a high-end spot and one that cares for the environment.
Boosting Education and Health
The masterplan also accounts for the future needs of residents and visitors. Space for schools and hospitals will grow by 25%, so the islands can stand on their own and give top services to those who live there.
The Project’s Vision
As you check out the Dubai Islands, you’ll see many different experiences and settings:
Sanctuary for Exquisite Island Communities
Imagine living in a community that mixes luxury with nature. The islands will have low-density villas and mid-density apartments creating an exclusive place to live.
Diverse Coastal Island Living and Vacationing Experience
Whether you’re a permanent resident or a vacationer, the islands give you a special coastal lifestyle. From homes on the beach to activities on the water, each day will seem like you’re on holiday.
Array of Luxury Resort Offerings
With plans for 86 resorts and hotels, you can choose from top-notch places to stay. Each resort will provide its own special experience fitting different likes and wants.
Assorted Village Cores for Gathering, Services & Entertainment
Community plays a central role in the Dubai Islands. You’ll spot lively village hubs dotted across the project providing spaces to meet up, get services, and have fun.
Haven for Wellness & Elite Sport Venues
People who love health and fitness, this project is for them. The islands will have modern health centers and high-end sports facilities letting you stay active in a posh setting.
Green & Blue Amenities for Public Visitors and Private Residents Alike
The plan focuses on mixing in green areas and water elements. Whether you live here or are just visiting, you can enjoy parks, walkways, and waterfront spots that show off the islands’ natural beauty.
Design Principles
The Dubai Islands project bases its design on seven main principles that impact every part of the build:
1. Each Island Has Its Own USP
Each of the five islands will have its own unique selling point, creating a diverse and complementary ecosystem. This means you’ll get a one-of-a-kind experience no matter which island you pick to visit or live on.
2. Lots of High-End Island Resort and Community Choices
Life’s all about options, and you’ll find plenty on the Dubai Islands. You can choose from top-notch resorts, small luxury hotels, and private housing areas - there’s something for everyone’s taste.
3. Village Centers and Social Clubs with Special Themes
The islands’ social fabric comes together through themed village centers and social clubs. These spots act as meeting points for the community providing both open and private areas to socialize, have fun, and get essential services.
4. Multimodal Connectivity within Each Island & Among the Islands
Moving around is simple, thanks to a well-designed system of marinas, walkways, and paths. You can choose water transport, walking, or cycling making it simple to discover and link up with different parts of the islands.
5. Maximize Waterfront Accessibility & Amenities Programs for Inland Neighborhoods
Even if you don’t live right on the water, you won’t miss out. The plan makes sure inland neighborhoods can reach the waterfront and its features boosting the value and appeal of the whole project.
6. Blue & Green Oasis Island Living
The Dubai Islands aim to blend indoor living with the outdoors. You’ll live in a true oasis where your home and nature merge.
7. Enriched Waterfront Living, Recreational & Spatial Experience
Every part of island life is set up to make the most of the waterfront. From homes to play areas, you’ll always feel close to the water improving your life and creating memories you’ll never forget.
Key Facts and Figures
As you consider the scale of this ambitious project, let’s look at some impressive numbers:
- 86 Resorts & Hotels
- 21 kilometers of Beach Length
- 9 Marinas
- 2 Golf Courses (one 18-hole and one 9-hole)
- Total GFA: 9,504,452 sqm
- Total Open Space: 1,987,294 sqm
- Total Retail GFA: 404,514 sqm
- Total Residential Units: 38,479
These figures paint a picture of a comprehensive development that caters to various needs and desires, from hospitality and recreation to residential living and retail experiences.
Land Use Plan
The Dubai Islands masterplan is a carefully orchestrated symphony of different land uses, ensuring a balanced and sustainable development:
Residential Areas
- Very Low-Density Villas: 62 units
- Low-Density Villas: 421 units
- Mid-Density Villas: 417 units
- High-Density Villas: 182 units
- Mid-Density Residential: 33,890 units
- High-Density Residential: 2,581 units
This diverse mix of residential options caters to different lifestyles and preferences, from exclusive villa living to more community-oriented apartment complexes.
Hospitality and Commercial
- Number of Resorts/Hotels: 87 (including existing plots)
- Total Keys in Resorts/Hotels: 16,215
- Club Facilities: 61,530 m²
- Mixed-Use Res, Retail, Hotel & Office: 279,684 m²
- Mixed-Use Marina Village: 102,335 m²
- Commercial: 404,514 m²
The emphasis on hospitality and commercial spaces ensures that the islands will be a vibrant destination for both residents and visitors.
Community and Recreation
- Community Facilities: 239,429 m²
- Park & Open Space: 1,987,294 m²
- Golf (Total Land Area): 1,508,767 m²
- Waterfront Edge (Total Land Area): 2,267,065 m²
These spaces form the backbone of the community, providing ample opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and social interaction.
Illustrative Plan
The Dubai Island masterplan is a testament to the emirate’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of urban development and creating unparalleled experiences for residents and visitors alike. As you visualize the Dubai Islands, you can see:
- Wellness Resort
- Eco-Resort
- 18-Hole Golf Course
- Scenic Drive
- Oasis Park
- Family Resort
- Marina Village
- Beach Front Resort
- Beach Front Residential
- Water Front Hotels & Apt
- Private Marina Club
- Signature Estate Lots
- Clubhouse
- 9-Hole Golf Course
- Boutique Mixed Use Village
- Sports Club and Aquatic Center
- Beach Club
- Mall
- Urban Island Residential
- Destination Art & Cultural District
- Golf Club/Sports Club
Each of these elements is strategically placed to create a harmonious and interconnected community that offers something for everyone.
Island Breakdown
The Dubai Island masterplan is composed of several distinct islands, each with its own character and purpose. Let’s take a closer look at each of these islands:
Island A: Mixed-Use Island Core
As you step onto Island A, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the Dubai Island development. This island serves as a vibrant, high-energy mixed-use core, providing a hub for Dubai Islands’ retail, entertainment, business, waterfront commercial, marina, and high-end island living.
The island is designed to be your primary access point from the city, offering a gateway to the entire development. As you explore, you’ll encounter a variety of waterfront experiences, including public and private marinas, boardwalks, promenades, and public and semi-private beaches.
Island A is divided into several distinct districts:
- Beachfront Hotel and Residential District: Here, you’ll find a mix of luxury hotels and branded residential apartments, offering stunning views of the coastline.
- The Mall: At the center of the island, a mixed-use core houses retail and entertainment options, ensuring that you’re never far from shopping and dining experiences.
- Marina Hotel and Residential Districts: These areas combine hotel accommodations with luxury residential apartments along the marina waterfront, perfect for those who love to be close to the water.
- Urban Island Residential Community District: This area features high-density garden apartments, providing a more urban living experience within the island setting.
- Waterfront Residential Community District: Here, you’ll find a mix of medium and high-density residential apartments, all with beautiful waterfront views.
- Destination Art and Cultural District: This area is dedicated to specialty retail and cultural activities, adding an artistic and cultural dimension to the island’s offerings.
Land Use Plan
| Total Land Area | 510 ha |
|---|---|
| Number of Resorts / Hotels (including existing plots) | 37 |
| Resorts / Hotels (Total keys) | 7,952 |
| Mid-Density Residential Apartments (Total units) | 28,563 |
| High-Density Residential Apartments (Total units) | 2,581 |
| Mid and High-Density Residential Apartments (Total BUA) | 3,657,769 m² |
| Mixed-Use Residential, Retail, Hotel & Office (Total BUA) | 279,684 m² |
| Commercial (Total BUA) | 387,690 m² |
| Community Facilities (Total BUA) | 146,180 m² |
| Park & Open Space (Total Land Area) | 435,413 m² |
| Waterfront Edge (Total Land Area) | 479,216 m² |
Island B: Integrated Resorts & Communities
Island B serves as a portal to the Island Resorts & Communities. It offers a more relaxed and community-oriented atmosphere compared to the bustling energy of Island A.
As you explore this island, you’ll discover beach front resorts and low-density communities spread along its shores. The eastern channel is lined with promenade waterfront hotels and mid-density communities, providing a perfect blend of tourist accommodations and residential areas.
The island features several key areas:
- Beachfront Resorts and Hotels Districts: These areas offer a mix of luxury resorts and hotels, perfect for vacationers seeking a beachfront experience.
- Community Services District: This area is dedicated to community commercial, schools, and religious services, ensuring that residents have access to all necessary amenities.
- Beachfront Villas District: Here, you’ll find a mix of signature estates and luxury villas, offering exclusive beachfront living.
- Waterfront Hotels and Residential District: This area combines luxury hotels with medium-density residential apartments, catering to both tourists and long-term residents.
Land Use Plan
| Total Land Area | 323 ha |
|---|---|
| Number of Resorts / Hotels (including existing plots) | 45 |
| Resorts / Hotels (Total keys) | 7,952 |
| Total Number of Villas – Very Low-Density (Total units) | 22 |
| Total Number of Villas – Low-Density (Total units) | 33 |
| Mid-Density Residential Apartments (Total units) | 6,254 |
| Club Facilities (Total BUA) | 1,208 m² |
| Commercial (Total BUA) | 16,824 m² |
| Community Facilities (Total BUA) | 49,624 m² |
| Park & Open Space (Total Land Area) | 314,633 m² |
| Waterfront Edge (Total Land Area) | 662,557 m² |
Island C: Oasis Island
Island C, known as the Oasis Island, offers a unique blend of blue and green-themed amenities for everyone. As you set foot on this island, you’ll be struck by the seamless integration of resorts, wellness facilities, and family-oriented attractions.
The island features:
- Wellness Resort
- Beach Front Low Density Residential
- Security Station
- Eco Resort
- 18-Hole Golf Course
- Golf Residential
- Beach Club
- Oasis Park
- Family Resort
- Golf Clubhouse
- Sports Fields
- Sports Resort
- Marina
- Marina Village
- Entry Portal
- Beach
The island is divided into several districts:
- Marina Village District: A vibrant mixed-use area with luxury hotels, branded residences, high-end retail, diverse dining, and entertainment venues, serving as the island’s social and commercial hub.
- Family Resort District: This family-oriented area features water parks, play areas, accommodations, and entertainment for all ages.
- Private Golf/Oasis Park Community District: It is a premium waterfront and golf residential district with an 18-hole course, oasis park, luxurious homes, and scenic trails.
- Wellness Resort/Residential Community District: Island C’s this district features a luxury wellness resort, spa, beachfront villas, and holistic well-being facilities.
- Eco-Resort District: Lastly this eco-friendly resort area integrates sustainable practices with luxury, offering energy-efficient accommodations, organic dining, and environmental education.
Land Use Plan
| Total Land Area | 778 ha |
|---|---|
| Number of Resorts / Hotels (including existing plots) | 4 |
| Resorts / Hotels (Total keys) | 2,657 |
| Total Number of Villas – Low-Density (Total units) | 357 |
| Total Number of Villas – Mid-Density (Total units) | 285 |
| Club Facilities (Total BUA) | 26,351 m² |
| Mixed-Use Marina Village (Total BUA) | 88,516 m² |
| Community Facilities (Total BUA) | 31,612 m² |
| Park & Open Space (Total Land Area) | 1,121,249 m² |
| Golf (Total Land Area) | 999,296 m² |
| Waterfront Edge (Total Land Area) | 756,410 m² |
Island D: Sports Country Club Island
Island D is designed as an exclusive Sports Country Club Community. As you explore this island, you’ll find a private sports country club offering a wide range of activities including soccer, golf, tennis academy, outdoor pools, and aquatic sports. The island also features archery, horseback riding, special cycling courses, skateboarding, beach and water recreation, and more.
Key features of Island D include:
- Beach Front Low Density Residential
- Golf Residential
- Beach Front Resort
- 9-Hole Golf Course
- Golf Putting Green
- Golf Clubhouse
- Sports Club
- Sports Fields
- Marina Village
- Marina
- Beach Club
- Entry Portal
- Beach
The island is divided into two main districts:
- Golf and Sports Country Club Residential Community District: This area integrates a sports club, aquatic center, 9-hole golf course, and luxury residential villas.
- Boutique Marina Village District: A mixed-use village core with retail, dining, entertainment, apartments, and a boutique hotel.
Land Use Plan
| Total Land Area | 156 ha |
|---|---|
| Number of Resorts / Hotels (including existing plots) | 1 |
| Resorts / Hotels (Total keys) | 439 |
| Total Number of Villas – Mid-Density (Total units) | 120 |
| Total Number of Villas – High-Density (Total units) | 182 |
| Club Facilities (Total GFA) | 30,202 m² |
| Mixed-Use Marina Village (Total GFA) | 13,819 m² |
| Community Facilities (Total GFA) | 5,174 m² |
| Park & Open Space (Total Land Area) | 66,904 m² |
| Golf (Total Land Area) | 509,471 m² |
| Waterfront Edge (Total Land Area) | 182,187 m² |
Island E: Luxury Estates Island
Your journey through the Dubai Islands culminates at Island E, the epitome of luxury and exclusivity. This island is designed for those who seek the ultimate in privacy and opulence. As you set foot on this island, you’ll be surrounded by signature estate lots and a private marina, creating an atmosphere of unparalleled exclusivity and luxury.
Key features of Island E include:
- Private Marina
- Marina Club
- Signature Estate Lots
- Neighborhood Park
- Beach Front Low Density Villas
- Clubhouse
- Beach
Land Use Plan
| Total Land Area | 99 ha |
|---|---|
| Total Number of Villas – Very Low-Density (# of units) | 40 |
| Total Number of Villas – Low-Density (# of units) | 31 |
| Total Number of Villas – Mid-Density (# of units) | 12 |
| Club Facilities (Total GFA) | 3,769 m² |
| Community Facilities (Total GFA) | 6,841 m² |
| Park & Open Space (Total Land Area) | 49,095 m² |
| Waterfront Edge (Total Land Area) | 186,695 m² |
Conclusion
As you’ve journeyed through the Dubai Islands masterplan, you’ve witnessed a vision of luxury living that’s truly unparalleled. From the mixed-use core of Island A to the exclusive real estate of Island E, each island offers a unique lifestyle tailored to different preferences and needs.
This ambitious project isn’t just about creating beautiful spaces; it’s about crafting experiences and communities. Whether you’re a business professional looking for a vibrant urban environment, a sports enthusiast seeking an active lifestyle, or a luxury connoisseur in search of the ultimate private retreat, the Dubai Islands have something for you.
As this masterplan comes to life, it will undoubtedly set a new standard for integrated island communities worldwide. It’s a testament to Dubai’s commitment to innovation and luxury, and a glimpse into the future of urban development. The Dubai Islands aren’t just a place to live - they’re a place to thrive, explore, and experience life at its fullest.
