Dubai to Build 17,000+ Affordable Homes, Approves Legal Consultant Project

JAD Global Real Estate Development, a UAE-based developer focused on holistic wellness, launched J188, its latest residential project in Dubai, offering elevated urban living spaces at the intersection of the emirate’s heritage and modern skyline. Incorporating neuroarchitecture elements, the AED240 million J188 development is designed to create a seamlessly serene home environment while simultaneously energizing the lifestyles of its residents.

The announcement follows the successful sell-out of JAD Global’s earlier residential project, 171 Garden Heights and comes alongside the introduction of JAD 288, a three-building community in Jumeirah Garden City. The value of JAD Global’s Dubai real estate investment portfolio now stands at more than AED 1 billion.

J188 was launched at a VIP gala dinner at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, bringing together senior officials, investors, strategic partners, and media representatives. The event featured a range of wellness experiences which reflect JAD Global’s brand and lifestyle offerings, including oxygen therapy and immersive meditative music.

Located in Al Jaddaf, J188 is a 13-storey residential building offering one- and two-bedroom freehold apartments, thoughtfully designed around wellness, comfort, and everyday living. The homes offer sweeping views of Dubai Creek and Downtown Dubai from a location that boasts strong connectivity to transport links and key city destinations.

The project places a strong emphasis on thoughtful, value-oriented, and wellbeing-led design. This includes a curated range of lifestyle and community amenities such as a rooftop skyline pool, a sky view deck overlooking the creek, fitness and wellness spaces, a padel court, co-working areas, landscaped gardens, and family-friendly zones. Residences are designed to support privacy and long-term livability, reflecting JAD Global’s focus on human-centric urban environments.

JAD Global CEO, Mohammed Al Sheikh said: “J188 marks the next phase of JAD Global’s expansion as we continue to broaden our residential portfolio in Dubai, one of the fastest growing real estate investment destinations in the world. Institutional investor backing for this project highlights confidence in our business model and our ability to deliver, while J188 itself represents our continued focus on well-designed, well-connected residential spaces that respond to how people want to live.”

J188 offers freehold ownership for all nationalities, with the potential for 10-year UAE Golden Visa eligibility, subject to applicable requirements, enhancing its appeal to both end-users and long-term investors. Buyers will also benefit from a flexible 50/50 payment plan, structured to support accessible ownership throughout the construction period, with completion anticipated in Q2 2028.

AMIS GPD Development, a part of AMIS Group, entered into an agreement with high watchmaking, high jewellery brand Jacob & Co. to build a luxury villa community in the Meydan, Dubai.

The signing ceremony, held at the AMIS Sales Centre on Sheikh Zayed Road, was attended by Jacob Arabo, Founder, Chairman and Creative Director of luxury brand Jacob & Co., Neeraj Mishra, Founder and CEO of AMIS GPD Development and Shah Azim Hameed shareholder of AMIS GPD Development.  

The collaboration between Jacob & Co. and AMIS GPD Development will craft a high-end residential community in the exclusive Meydan area of Dubai. The community embodies the uppermost level of luxury, exclusivity and modern living. Situated in one of Dubai’s most prestigious districts, the project will integrate the finest materials, design and technology, setting a new standard for Dubai’s luxury villa market.

Speaking at the event, Jacob Arabo, Founder and Chairman of Jacob & Co., commented: “Our collaboration with AMIS GPD Development represents a fusion of two brands that share a passion for excellence. We are creating a truly unique living experience. The community we’ll build together will be a beacon of sophistication and luxury in Dubai.”

Neeraj Mishra, Founder & CEO of AMIS GPD Development, added: “This cooperation marks a key milestone for AMIS as we continue to expand our footprint in Dubai’s luxury market. Our joint efforts with Jacob & Co. ensure that this project will be unparalleled in design, craftsmanship and innovation.”

Shah Azim Hameed, shareholder of AMIS GPD Development stated: “This collaboration is a clear reflection of our long-term conviction in Dubai’s luxury real estate sector. This project allows us to combine strong development fundamentals with global design excellence. Together, we are laying the foundation for a distinctive residential offering that is both enduring and future-focused.”

Dubai had a banner year in 2025, logging a record-breaking number of home sales at $10 million and above, according to a report from Knight Frank on Monday.

The U.A.E. city closed out the year with 500 sales valued at $10 million-plus—including 68 homes that sold for more than $25 million, another all-time high—producing a total value of $9.05 billion, a 27.7% increase of 2024’s luxury sales volume of $7.09 billion.

A strong fourth quarter helped propel the market to these record numbers, with 143 homes selling for more than $10 million during the final three months of the year, up from 103 in the third quarter.

Regional and worldwide luxury buyers alike continue to be compelled to buy property in Dubai, “attracted by the high quality of life, world-class amenities and infrastructure, enabled by the government’s ambitious investment programs,” Faisal Durrani, partner and head of research for Knight Frank’s Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, said in the report.

“Dubai’s meteoric rise as the world’s busiest market for $10 million-plus homes, having increased from just 30 sales in 2020 to 500 by the end of 2025, is best reflected in the emirate’s growing reputation as a magnet for the global elite,” he said.

The tree-shaped man-made island of Palm Jumeirah retained its spot as the most popular community for luxury home buyers, recording 28 sales of homes valued at more than $10 million during the fourth quarter.

The yet-to-be-completed Palm Jebel Ali—which closely resembles the shape of Palm Jumeirah—was close behind with 22 sales. It’s expected to be completed in 2028.

“At 50% larger than its established neighbor Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali remains a destination to watch,” said Will McKintosh, regional partner and head of residential for MENA.

“While it will obviously take time to reach the maturity of other established communities, the 2025 sales figures are a welcome indication of its high potential and the growing demand from the wealthiest buyers for prime waterfront property and the luxury Dubai lifestyle.”

The priciest deal of the quarter was for a six-bedroom apartment in Bugatti Residences by Binghatti, within the Business Bay community.

The 47,200-square-foot home sold for AED 550 million (US$149.7 million), setting a U.A.E. sale price record for a penthouse.

The previous record was held by a 22,000-square-foot penthouse at the Como Residences on the Palm Jumeirah that sold for AED 500 million in November 2023.

Dubai had a banner year in 2025, logging a record-breaking number of home sales at $10 million and above, according to a report from Knight Frank on Monday.

The U.A.E. city closed out the year with 500 sales valued at $10 million-plus—including 68 homes that sold for more than $25 million, another all-time high—producing a total value of $9.05 billion, a 27.7% increase of 2024’s luxury sales volume of $7.09 billion.

A strong fourth quarter helped propel the market to these record numbers, with 143 homes selling for more than $10 million during the final three months of the year, up from 103 in the third quarter.

Regional and worldwide luxury buyers alike continue to be compelled to buy property in Dubai, “attracted by the high quality of life, world-class amenities and infrastructure, enabled by the government’s ambitious investment programs,” Faisal Durrani, partner and head of research for Knight Frank’s Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, said in the report.

“Dubai’s meteoric rise as the world’s busiest market for $10 million-plus homes, having increased from just 30 sales in 2020 to 500 by the end of 2025, is best reflected in the emirate’s growing reputation as a magnet for the global elite,” he said.

The tree-shaped man-made island of Palm Jumeirah retained its spot as the most popular community for luxury home buyers, recording 28 sales of homes valued at more than $10 million during the fourth quarter.

The yet-to-be-completed Palm Jebel Ali—which closely resembles the shape of Palm Jumeirah—was close behind with 22 sales. It’s expected to be completed in 2028.

“At 50% larger than its established neighbor Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali remains a destination to watch,” said Will McKintosh, regional partner and head of residential for MENA.

“While it will obviously take time to reach the maturity of other established communities, the 2025 sales figures are a welcome indication of its high potential and the growing demand from the wealthiest buyers for prime waterfront property and the luxury Dubai lifestyle.”

The priciest deal of the quarter was for a six-bedroom apartment in Bugatti Residences by Binghatti, within the Business Bay community.

The 47,200-square-foot home sold for AED 550 million (US$149.7 million), setting a U.A.E. sale price record for a penthouse.

The previous record was held by a 22,000-square-foot penthouse at the Como Residences on the Palm Jumeirah that sold for AED 500 million in November 2023.

Saudi real estate developer Dar Global DARD.L will launch two Trump-branded luxury projects in Riyadh and Jeddah with a combined value of $10 billion, CEO Ziad El Chaar said on Sunday.

The projects include the Trump National Golf Course and Trump International Hotel in Riyadh’s Diriyah, a massive development project on the Saudi capital’s western edge, said Chaar.

In Jeddah, mixed-use offices and residential property are planned in a development named Trump Plaza, Chaar added.

The projects are in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to diversify the economy away from oil, Chaar said, with the aim of attracting direct foreign investment. Saudi Arabia also plans to allow foreigners to own property for the first time in designated areas, starting this month.

The latest in a series of partnerships between the Trump Organization and Dar Global, the international arm of Saudi developer Dar Al Arkan, is expected to be completed over the next four to five years, said Eric Trump, U.S. President Donald Trump’s son and executive vice president of the Trump Organization.

63% of homebuyers in Dubai are now placing greater emphasis on location, community amenities, and lifestyle value than on price when making purchasing decisions, according to new data released by TownX Real Estate Development, one of Dubai’s fastest-growing developers with an AED 4 billion project portfolio.

Statistics derived from TownX’s proprietary data, customer insights, sales performance, market trends, and observational analysis over the past six months revealed that buyers are increasingly focused on long-term value, favoring walkable communities, access to retail and F&B, proximity to schools, wellness facilities, and integrated lifestyle experiences over short-term cost considerations.

The shift comes as Dubai continues to attract a diverse and discerning buyer base seeking elevated living standards.

Haider Abduljabbar, Executive Director at TownX commented: “This is what we’ve been seeing on the ground. Today’s buyers are seeking a complete lifestyle when purchasing a property, and do not settle for the basic real estate purchase. Communities that offer strong connectivity, modern amenities, and thoughtful design are now commanding significantly more interest than properties judged solely on price.”

The data reveals that demand is strongest in mixed-use, master-planned communities that blend residential, retail, and leisure elements, with buyers demonstrating a clear willingness to invest in developments that enhance their quality of life.

TownX attributes this shift to Dubai’s maturing real estate landscape, where end-users and investors are prioritizing long-term livability and community-centric environments.

“Given the realities on the ground, we’ve aligned our development strategy with these evolving expectations. Our goal is to create human-centric, accessible communities that resonate with modern homeowners offering the right mix of convenience, comfort, and value for years to come,” Abduljabbar added.

TownX manages a rapidly expanding pipeline of residential and mixed-use projects across key locations in Dubai. The company continues to see strong interest from both local and international buyers drawn to the emirate’s economic momentum, infrastructure development, and world-class lifestyle offering.

Record-breaking Dubai property sales in 2025 were matched by unprecedented growth across the real estate industry, with a luxury developer saying this shows the market is maturing beyond speculation.

New data from DXB Interact reveals that the number of Dubai real estate agencies increased by 39.7% to 9,728 last year, while registered agents climbed by 34.5% to 32,317.

Talal M. Al Gaddah, CEO and Founder of the Keturah luxury brand, welcomed the dramatic industry expansion, firmly believing it reflects a deeper, more competitive market, and this naturally raises standards.

“With greater choice, buyers compare more rigorously, brokers prioritize proven projects, and brand, delivery track record and product quality become decisive,” said Talal.

“In the luxury segment especially, abundance doesn’t drive volume; it drives selectivity, favoring developers that offer trust, differentiation and long-term value.”

Around 700 brokers from across the industry, including some of Dubai’s newest agents, will attend Thursday’s launch event for the final phase of sales at Keturah Reserve, the AED5.7 billion luxury residential development. 

It takes place against a backdrop of soaring returns for Dubai real estate investors. DXB Interact data shows that 2025 produced AED86 billion in capital gains for buyers, with significant YoY increases in each property sector, as shown here:

Thursday’s event at the JW Marriott Hotel in Dubai is organized by fäm Properties, appointed as exclusive Master Agency to oversee sales at Keturah Reserve, the master community from developer MAG at Mohammed Bin Rashid City’s District 7 in Meydan. 

Firas Al Msaddi, fäm’s CEO, sees the event as a chance to forge stronger collaboration across the real estate industry. ” We’re moving away from pure competition toward agencies and brokers working together to build a stronger market,” he said. “Sharing knowledge and resources creates a more transparent industry that benefits everyone.”

Around 700 fäm Properties brokers were attending their own launch event today. Al Msaddi says: “The advantage of investing in a master community like Keturah Reserve is the consistent standard maintained by a single developer with long-term interest in its success, overseeing commercial spaces, amenities, and asset management to protect property values and quality.”

A bio-living residential development designed around nature and wellness, Keturah Reserve comprises 533 low-rise apartments, 93 townhouses, and 90 villas on a nature-focused site.

With townhouses sold out, more than 40% of apartments are already committed. Handovers start with townhouses in Q2 2027, followed by apartments in Q3–Q4 2027, and villas in Q1 2028.

Dubai Land Department (DLD) has launched an awareness campaign on the ‘Ejari’ system as part of its ongoing initiatives to reach all customer segments. This aligns with the DLD’s continued commitment to raising awareness of lease registration procedures, regulating the landlord-tenant relationship, and enhancing the customer experience in Dubai’s rental market, while ensuring the protection of all parties’ rights and reinforcing the principles of transparency and trust.

The campaign is launched under the slogan ‘Step by Step’ and focuses on delivering clear, simplified awareness content that addresses the most common inquiries about Ejari services. This includes lease registration and cancellation, certificate downloads, calculation of rental increase percentages, and notification and non-renewal procedures, in accordance with the approved legal and regulatory frameworks in the Emirate.

The campaign aims to empower customers with a clearer understanding of procedures, reduce the need for repeated inquiries, and enhance the overall user experience by providing accurate, up-to-date information that meets the needs of landlords, tenants, and real estate brokers through unified, easily accessible digital channels.

Dubai Land Department is implementing this campaign across its digital platforms, including its official website and social media channels, as well as through visual and audio awareness content. This underscores the DLD’s commitment to simplifying the customer journey, enhancing customer happiness, and supporting the sustainability and stability of Dubai’s rental market.

Dubai Land Department encouraged stakeholders, including landlords, tenants, and real estate brokers, to use its official channels and access available awareness materials to benefit from the guidance and digital services provided by the Ejari system.

As the UAE heads into 2026, its real estate sector is entering the year on the back of robust growth, underpinned by strong population inflows, sustained residential demand, and emerging innovations such as property tokenization, according to Farhan Badami, Market Analyst at eToro.

“The UAE’s real estate market continues to benefit from powerful structural tailwinds,” Badami said. “Population growth remains a key driver of housing demand, while new technologies such as tokenization are beginning to reshape how properties are bought, sold and valued across major markets like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.”

Both Dubai and Abu Dhabi are experiencing a demographic expansion that continues to support residential demand. Dubai’s population surpassed four million in 2025, with more than 208,000 new residents added over the year. This growth, driven by employment opportunities, lifestyle appeal and long-term residency initiatives, has translated into record activity levels in the property market.

“In 2025 alone, Dubai recorded property transactions exceeding AED 680 billion, representing year-on-year growth of around 30%,” Badami noted. “Abu Dhabi is showing a similar pattern, with residential demand growing by approximately 5% to 6% annually, significantly outpacing the rate of new housing supply.”

Looking ahead to 2026, one of the key developments to watch will be the shift towards tokenization and fractional ownership. What was once largely theoretical is now moving into practical implementation, with Dubai’s Land Department launching a tokenization pilot that integrates blockchain-based property titles into the official land registry.

“This initiative has the potential to fundamentally change how real estate is traded,” Badami said. “Tokenization could allow investors to purchase fractional ownership in property assets with greater speed, transparency and efficiency, while also improving market liquidity over time.”

He added that sustained population growth continues to support pre-sales activity, pricing power and recurring rental income, while a more mature market environment favors well-capitalized developers with strong land banks and proven execution capabilities.

“At the same time, innovation such as tokenization may open up new funding channels and broaden the investor base,” Badami explained. “For investors, this reinforces the appeal of established developers with meaningful exposure to residential demand in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.”

From an equity market perspective, Badami believes the real estate upswing points to a sector supported by fundamentals rather than speculation.

“For stocks linked to the real estate ecosystem, from developers to financial institutions, the outlook suggests scope for steady earnings growth,” he said. “Healthier cash flows also support the potential for sustainable dividend growth, which will be a key focus for income-oriented investors in the year ahead.”

The real estate market witnessed a decline in trading activity from Dec 21- 25, with 136 transactions valued at KD69.85 million, compared to 149 transactions worth KD156.3 million in the previous week — a qualitative decrease of 55.3 percent and a quantitative decrease of 8.7 percent.

The newspaper obtained a copy of the weekly report from the Real Estate Registration and Documentation Departments at the Ministry of Justice, indicating that the private sector accounted for 83.2 percent of the total number of transactions, with 114 transactions valued at KD48.7 million.

This marks a significant decrease in transaction value of 53.7 percent (KD56.6 million) compared to 113 transactions worth KD105.3 million in the previous week.

Investment properties witnessed a significant decline as well, with 19 transactions totaling KD15.2 million or 48.6 percent decrease in value (KD14.4 million) and 36.6 percent decrease in the number of transactions (11 transactions).

This indicates that investors are awaiting stability in the real estate market, following the implementation of the new real estate legislation.

Commercial properties also experienced a downward trend, with only two transactions totaling KD5.3 million, compared to five transactions totaling KD20.1 million in the previous week.

This entails 60 percent decrease in the number of transactions (three transactions) and 73.6 percent decrease in value (KD14.8 million). The coastal strip sector recorded only one transaction during the week, valued at KD650,000, while other sectors such as warehouses, crafts, shops, showrooms and banks remained unchanged.

Lazura Developments has announced the launch of its latest real estate project, Lazura New Cairo, in New Cairo, marking the first project to be officially introduced to Egypt’s real estate market at the start of 2026, with total investments exceeding EGP 8bn.

Ahmed Abdel Hakim, Board Member at Lazura Developments, said the launch represents a key milestone in the company’s more than 20-year track record and reflects its confidence in the resilience and growth prospects of Egypt’s real estate sector. He added that the timing of the launch, coinciding with the beginning of 2026, sends positive signals for the sector’s outlook.

Abdel Hakim noted that Lazura New Cairo embodies the company’s commitment to delivering fully integrated real estate solutions that cater to both homeowners and investors, while aligning with the state’s vision for sustainable urban development. The project will comprise a diverse range of residential units, supported by integrated services and modern urban planning concepts.

He also highlighted the project’s strategic location in New Cairo, with close proximity to major road networks and key services, giving it a strong competitive advantage. The development is expected to generate new job opportunities, stimulate economic activity, and enhance real estate value in the surrounding area.

In the same context, Ramadan El-Seddik, Board Member at Lazura Developments, said the project reflects a clear strategic vision built on long-term planning and a deep understanding of market shifts and future demand, particularly as it is the first project to be launched at the start of 2026.

El-Seddik added that Lazura New Cairo has been designed to serve as a model for integrating architectural quality, sustainability, and operational efficiency, ensuring long-term investment value and reinforcing customer confidence.

Meanwhile, Ahmed Fouad, CEO of Lazura Developments, said the company has established a detailed execution plan to ensure adherence to construction timelines and the application of the highest quality standards, supported by the latest project management and implementation technologies.

Fouad added that the project is based on comprehensive market studies and will offer flexible payment plans alongside fully integrated services to meet evolving market needs.

Palace Group, a pioneering force in the UAE’s luxury real estate sector, announces the launch of AYA, an exclusive new residential development in Jumeirah Garden City. Offering a contemporary, design-driven sanctuary in the heart of Dubai, AYA responds to a growing demand for residences that pair intentional luxury with balance, convenience and purposeful living.

Designed by award-winning architects John McAslan + Partners and guided by the philosophy of “less to show, more to live,” AYA by Palace Group brings together refined architecture and thoughtful spatial planning to create homes rooted in quiet, sophisticated authenticity. With just 70 one- to two-bedroom residences across 12 elegantly designed floors, AYA offers an intimate living experience centered around open-air terraces and calm landscaped pockets of green. Every detail supports holistic wellbeing, shaping a lifestyle without compromise where exquisite architecture becomes a vessel for modern, mindful living. 

This commitment to intentional design carries through every residence. Natural materials, organic curves and generous light create intuitive, effortless living spaces, that offer balance and acoustic comfort. Open-plan layouts shift seamlessly from private retreat to social gathering, and extended balconies provide quiet moments of privacy, maintaining a continuous dialogue between inner calm and the world outside. 

AYA sits at the heart of Jumeirah Garden City, one of Dubai’s most desirable emerging districts, shaped by a masterplan of mid-rise buildings, landscaped corridors and abundant open space. This future-focused walkable community offers the convenience of central living with the calm of a private sanctuary. With immediate access to the city’s key business and leisure hubs and just moments from DIFC and Dubai Downtown, it positions early buyers advantageously within Dubai’s evolving residential landscape.

“AYA is a boutique residence envisioned for a mindful, human-centered lifestyle, where quality and long-term wellbeing shape every detail,” said Wissam Damaa, Founder and Owner of Palace Group, on announcement of the exclusive residences. “With our proven track record in high-quality developments, AYA reflects our commitment to create distinctive living spaces in prime locations that go beyond conventional ultra-luxury. AYA is designed to stand out, deliver long-term value and offer an elevated living experience. We take pride in crafting homes people genuinely love, enriching the neighborhoods they belong to and setting a new benchmark for modern luxury living in Dubai.”

Reflecting its commitment to elevated living, AYA’s amenities are designed to enrich daily life with intention and ease. Effortless arrival begins at the elegant reception that flows into a unique art gallery, while exclusive retail boutiques add moments of discovery. Wellness and social connection sit at the heart of the experience, expressed on the rooftop through a serene pool, a state-of-the-art gym, a calming spa, and an inviting lounge designed for meaningful connection against panoramic city views. Outdoor spaces balance privacy and community, from an elegant al fresco dining terrace to lush gardens shaped by organic curves and soft planting. Each amenity supports both solitude and togetherness, creating a living environment where residents can feel centered, connected, and completely at home. 

More than residences, AYA offers space that adapts to life’s changing rhythms, creating the foundation for solitude and longevity. As a boutique community shaped with enduring consideration, AYA delivers an exclusive living experience defined by sophistication and an instinctive sense of belonging. AYA is where you come home to who you are. 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

⦁ Total property income for the three quarters increased by 22% year-on-year on a like-for-like basis, reaching USD 60m.
⦁ Occupancy increased to 94% (Q3 2024: 92%).
⦁ Finance to Value (LTV) has been reduced by 16% to a stable 20% (Q3 2024: 36%).
⦁ Net Finance costs decreased by 57% to USD 17m (Q3 2024: USD 40m).
⦁ Fund From Operations (FFO) reached USD 14m (Q3 2024: USD -0.5m, inclusive of divested investment properties in FY 2024)
⦁ Revaluation gains of USD 171m bringing total assets value to USD 1.22b, higher than the USD 1.17b in Q3 2024, despite the sale of properties in 2024.
⦁ Net Asset Value reached a historic high with an increase of 37% year-on-year to USD 886m or USD 2.78 per share from USD 648m (USD2.03 per share) in Q3 2024.

OPERATIONS

Equitativa’s asset management team continued to deliver steady operating performance across the Emirates REIT portfolio, with occupancy increasing to 94% as at 30 September 2025. The improvement reflects sustained tenant demand across the portfolio, and the continued focus on proactive asset and lease management.
The net property income closed at USD 52m, remaining broadly stable year-on-year, despite the disposal of investment properties in 2024, and underlining the resilience of the portfolio’s income generation.

FINANCE

Emirates REIT maintained its conservative capital structure during the period, with the Finance-to-Value reduced to 20%, compared to 36% a year earlier. This reduction reflects proactive deleveraging and disciplined balance sheet management.

Combined with refinancing initiatives and a reduced debt profile, net finance costs decreased by 57% year-on-year to USD 17m, supporting the improvement in Funds From Operations to USD 14m for the period.
Revaluation gains of USD 171m were recorded during the period.

Commenting on Emirates REIT’s performance, Thierry Delvaux, CEO of Equitativa Dubai, said: “Emirates REIT’s continued strong performance underscores the resilience of our portfolio and the disciplined execution of our strategy. We have delivered higher property income while materially reducing finance costs, with Net Asset Value reaching a record USD 886 million. At the same time, LTV has been reduced to 20% and net finance costs lowered by 57% to USD 17 million, strengthening the REIT’s balance sheet and positioning us well for sustainable growth and attractive returns for our shareholders.”

Abu Dhabi’s Modon Holding PSC has formed a new joint venture with US developer Related Companies and Jersey City firm Panepinto Properties to develop Harborside 4, a 54-storey residential tower in downtown Jersey City, New Jersey.

Modon will hold a majority equity stake in the JV, which the company said was part of its strategy to expand its global portfolio and enhance its long-term recurring income.

Construction is set to begin in Q1 2026, with completion targeted in Q1 2029.

Financial details of the project have not been disclosed.

The JV will jointly oversee the development, with Related leading development and construction management, leasing and operations.

A consortium of banks led by JP Morgan will provide construction financing for the development scheme overlooking the Manhattan skyline.

Dubai is entering a decisive new phase in its luxury property cycle, with branded residences expanding at a rate unmatched anywhere in the world. 

The city’s branded-residence pipeline is set to grow by 80%, reaching nearly 250 projects by 2030, according to fresh market data from Dubai-based real estate consultancy VVS Estate.

According to Savills’ Branded Residences 2024/25 Report, the global sector has recorded more than 180% growth over the past decade, with over 700 completed schemes and another 790 in the pipeline.

The Savills report confirms nearly 140 branded-residence projects already active in Dubai, the highest concentration worldwide. Meanwhile, the EMEA region has emerged as a global hub for branded residences, accounting for nearly 30% of total supply. Within this landscape, the Middle East stands out, representing around 12% of global inventory and boasting the strongest growth outlook worldwide, with supply projected to expand by approximately 120% by 2030.

Valentina Rusu, Founder of VVS Estate said: “Cross referencing these findings with Property Finder’s 2,300+ off-plan developments across the UAE further indicates that Dubai’s branded residences are projected to increase by 80%, potentially reaching 250 projects by 2030.”

The next stage of Dubai’s branded-residence evolution is being driven by private-access launches and early intelligence shared only with top-tier brokerages. One of the most anticipated forthcoming developments, Palace Hillside in Dubai Hills Estate, has been quietly previewed to a select circle of industry leaders prior to public announcement. This trend reflects a broader market shift, which is that luxury buyers increasingly rely on agencies with privileged access, transforming traditional brokerage into strategic advisory.

Property Finder data highlights several significant branded schemes with confirmed delivery timelines. These include the Address Residences The Bay (2026), the St. Regis Residences Downtown (2026), the Vida Residences Dubai Hills (2027), and the Palace Residences Dubai Hills (2028), as well as the Six Senses Dubai Marina (2028) and the Address Residences Dubai Hills (2029). 

Each project publicly shares construction progress and payment structures, reinforcing Dubai’s reputation for market transparency and investor confidence.

The next boom in Dubai property extends beyond residences alone. Projects such as Lumena Alta by Omniyat, which is a 380-metre tower combining a five-star sky hotel, wellness components, and commercial space, signal the rise of integrated lifestyle ecosystems. This progression marks Dubai’s shift from ‘branded residences’ to ‘branded life’, where hospitality, living, wellness, and workspace merge into cohesive premium districts.

“Branded residences go beyond luxury and sales; they represent value. Buyers are not just interested in purchasing a home, but investing in a lifestyle. The brand embodies a unique vision that leaves a lasting impact,” Rusu concluded. Her perspective captures the sentiment driving new investor behavior across the region and the desire for long-term assurance, strong brand stewardship, and lifestyle-driven returns.

With almost 250 branded and hybrid projects projected by 2030, and the potential to approach 400 schemes by 2035, Dubai is poised to remain the world’s most influential branded-living market. Its future pipeline is expected to strengthen high-end inbound investment, deepen international demand, and continue redefining how luxury real estate is conceived and delivered across the MENA region.