Dubai Islands in Dubai: Premier Waterfront Living Destination

Dubai Islands, formerly known as Palm Deira and later Deira Islands, is a cluster of five artificial islands originally launched by Nakheel Properties in 2004. The project was rebranded to Dubai Islands in August 2022, marking a new chapter with a comprehensive master plan unveiled by Nakheel.

Covering an impressive 17 square kilometres, the five islands each carry a distinct character:

• Central Island – the largest, featuring the future Deira Mall and Night Market with 5,300+ shops
• Marina Island – focused on yachting, marina facilities and nautical lifestyle
• Shore Island – dedicated to sports and resort communities
• Golf Island – home to an 18-hole golf course, villas and wellness enclaves
• Elite Island – the most exclusive, reserved for luxury waterfront villas

The project adds approximately 40 km of coastline to Dubai's geography. Three hotels are already operational: the Hotel RIU Dubai (800 keys, opened December 2020), Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai (607 keys, opened October 2021), and Park Regis Dubai Islands (159 keys, opened March 2024).

Dubai Islands represents Dubai's relentless ambition to redefine waterfront living on a global scale.

Living on Dubai Islands means access to a world-class lifestyle combining beachfront relaxation, premium leisure, and modern conveniences. The master plan delivers a comprehensive ecosystem for residents and visitors alike.

Beaches and Green Spaces

• Over 20 km of pristine beaches, including a Blue Flag-certified beach
• Nearly 2 km² of parks and open spaces
• Premium golf courses overlooking the Arabian Gulf

Shopping and Dining

• Deira Mall – 600,000 m² mega-mall with 1,100 retail spaces
• Deira Night Souk – planned to be the world's largest night market (1.9 km long)
• Souk Al Marfa – authentic cultural and retail experience
• 100+ quayside cafés and restaurants

Hospitality and Wellness

• 80+ hotels and resorts planned, including the upcoming Rixos Hotel & Resorts
• Luxury spas and wellness centres
• Nakheel Marinas Dubai Islands – accommodating 13 super yachts simultaneously
• 248 wet berths for vessels up to 47 metres and 40 dry berths

From families seeking beachfront living to professionals looking for premium urban island life, Dubai Islands delivers an unparalleled lifestyle just minutes from downtown Dubai.

The real estate market on Dubai Islands is experiencing significant momentum, driven by Nakheel's strategic vision and growing international investor interest in Dubai's waterfront property sector.

The community currently comprises 101 buildings, 646 villas, 13,184 residential units, and 6,301 commercial units. Key residential projects include:

• Bay Grove Residences – a vibrant residential ecosystem designed in harmony with nature
• Bay Villas, Dubai Islands – luxury villas surrounded by beaches and landscaped green spaces
• Rixos Hotel & Resorts – the first luxury hotel and residential offering with a 700-metre beach

In December 2024, European developer Mr Eight Development announced plans to invest approximately AED 1 billion in eight boutique residential projects on Dubai Islands. In April 2025, the RTA revealed plans for a second road bridge — 1,425 metres long and 8 lanes wide — connecting the islands to Bur Dubai.

Property prices on Dubai Islands remain competitive compared to established waterfront destinations like Palm Jumeirah, presenting significant capital appreciation potential as infrastructure and amenities come online. Off-plan purchases currently offer the most attractive entry points for savvy investors.

Dubai Islands enjoys a strategic location close to the heart of Dubai while maintaining its serene island character. Excellent connectivity by road and sea makes the district highly accessible.

Road Connectivity

A bridge opened in December 2016 connects the islands to the mainland. The iconic Infinity Bridge provides a stunning gateway to the islands. A second 8-lane bridge (1,425 metres) to Bur Dubai was announced by the RTA in April 2025, significantly enhancing access.

Distances and Travel Times

• 10 minutes from Gold Souq Metro Station
• 20 minutes from Dubai International Airport (DXB)
• 22 minutes from The Dubai Frame
• 24 minutes from Dubai World Trade Centre and Downtown Dubai
• 33 minutes from Business Bay

Maritime Access

Nakheel Marinas Dubai Islands, launched in May 2023, offers world-class maritime facilities along Dubai's northern coastline. The marina features 248 wet berths, 40 dry berths, and can accommodate up to 13 super yachts. Services include 24/7 dock assistance, complimentary club car transfers, and overnight anchoring permits.

This multimodal connectivity ensures Dubai Islands is both conveniently accessible and peacefully secluded — the best of both worlds.

Investing in Dubai Islands represents a compelling opportunity in Dubai's thriving real estate market. Here are the key reasons this waterfront district stands out:

Exceptional Capital Growth Potential

• Development-phase pricing significantly below mature waterfront communities like Palm Jumeirah
• Over 80 hotels and resorts planned, ensuring strong tourism-driven rental demand
• AED 1 billion+ in new developer commitments announced in 2024

Premium Lifestyle Offering

• 60 km of waterfront and certified beaches
• Golf courses, marina, parks, and cultural attractions
• Aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan

Investor-Friendly Advantages

• Off-plan purchases with flexible payment plans from Nakheel
• Competitive rental yields in the waterfront segment
• Zero income tax and zero capital gains tax in Dubai
• Continuously expanding infrastructure (new bridge, marina, mega-mall)
• Freehold ownership available to international buyers

Whether you are seeking a primary beachfront residence, a holiday home, or a high-yield investment property, Dubai Islands offers unmatched potential. As infrastructure matures and the community reaches completion, early investors are positioned to benefit from substantial value appreciation.