The UAE is a region in constant change. The city skyline has reinvented itself many times over the years, and dozens of new projects are currently underway. Celebrity-branded hotels, incredible design choices and amenity lists to rival any major international destination are just a few examples of the scope. So, what are some of the top developments going on right now?
This list will look at a variety of developments, showcasing the breadth of the UAE’s real estate investment projects. From a huge mixed use and residential development with thousands of homes, to smaller scale but no less impressive luxury apartment towers at Marea Residences, to a single unit that is one the most expensive penthouses in the world – these are five developments in the UAE that will certainly catch anyone’s attention.
Marea Residences is an Exclusive Residential Development in the Heart of Dubai
Imagine living in an oceanfront property in the Dubai Islands, that is sculpted to reflect the waves of the sea and the ever changing Dubai skyline. In an apartment with premium Italian marble finishing, lounging in a sparkling infinity pool or sitting in your private balcony jacuzzi, as the moonlight glitters of the waves of the sea and the soft curves of the building alike.
This is the vision that Marea Residences by Sharafi Development makes into reality. 68 gorgeous residences are spread across 12 floors in this impressive building, with recessed and tiered balconies that create a sweeping interplay of light and shadow.
Residences range from one to three bed apartments, as well as four exclusive penthouses. The interiors are fitted with luxury European craftsmanship throughout including Italian marbles and quartz countertops, as well as the latest smart technology for the ultimate in personalized living environments.
Outside of the apartments, Marea Residences also contains a state-of-the-art spa, sauna and wellness center, an expansive gym and 24/7 concierge and security services.
Dubai Creek is an Ambitious, Sprawling Mixed Use Development
One of the biggest developments currently being undertaken in the city, Dubai Creek Harbour is set to be home to some 200,000 residents once fully completed.
Spanning some six million square metres this huge project is situated just minutes drive from Dubai’s busiest areas and main attractions. As well as thousands of residences (from smaller apartment units to waterfront villas, luxury penthouses and townhouses) the area will also feature 500,000 square metres of public parks and gardens.
The mixed-use development will have commercial areas including restaurants and cafes, with outdoor Arab cafe culture encouraged and promoted. Then there’s 280 swimming pools (some private some public) and a 144 multi-sport capable courts.
The Dubai Creek tower is set to be a local landmark and highlight, with its planned observation deck and sky lounge. Plus a brand new Dubai Metro station.
Bvlgari Resort & Residences at Jumeirah Bay is Exclusive Designer Island Living
On the other end of the spectrum, where some developers go big others niche down and go ultimate luxury for a very elite market. Bvlgari Resort is certainly the latter.
This development by Meraas and Italian luxury fashion house turned hotelier Bvlgari has four main components:
- 173 apartments
- 15 mansions
- A 101-room hotel
- 20 villas
- 7 five bedroom, individually designed oceanfront mansions
The entire complex was designed by Italian architecture firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel & Partners. The area is located on the seahorse shaped Jumeriah Bay Island which is close to all of Dubai’s major attractions, at around 15 minutes drive from downtown and the Burj Khalifa.
The Bvlgari Ocean Mansions are a particular highlight, with each property spanning some 10,000 square feet, with part of the properties literally built over the water on stilts. Private gardens take a centrepiece in many of the properties, while others are heavily Mediterranean inspired with terracotta roofs and open plan living with lots of light.
Nobu Residences, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, Has one of the Most Expensive Penthouses in The World
If that list of luxury homes and architectural innovation hasn’t impressed you enough already, how about the most expensive apartment in Abu Dhabi?
Nobu Residences in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island has fourteen exclusive properties, including three penthouses. One of which recently sold for $37.8 million. When you see some photos of the inside, you can see why.
As well as incredible oceanfront views, and stretches of private white-sand beachfront on which to enjoy it, these penthouses are designed to combine Japanese minimalism with modern luxury living, in a reflection of the famous Nobu hospitality brand.
The designers tried to incorporate local materials and expansive open plan layouts to make the most of the breath-taking views, as well as state of the art appliances and smart home technology.
All three mansions are situated to offer 360 panoramic views of gardens or the ocean throughout, or from their rooftop oases. Each contains an in-house cinema, a high tech spa and gym suite and a luxury garage showroom.