As the United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to evolve, the real estate landscape is not limited to the well-known hubs of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Across the Emirates, lesser-known areas are quietly gaining momentum, offering unique investment prospects and a distinct way of life. From the northern emirates to the capital, here are 12 up-and-coming areas in the UAE that are shaping the future of the country’s real estate market.
Aljada, Sharjah
Aljada is a new mixed-use development in Sharjah that is expected to become one of the largest in the emirate. The project will feature a variety of residential, commercial, and leisure amenities, including a central park, a town center, and a cultural hub. Covering an impressive 2.2 square kilometers, it’s set to become a bustling master-planned community.
This project is still under development, but it has already attracted significant attention, with over 50% of the first phase of residential units sold.
Dubailand
Dubailand is a massive mixed-use development that is home to a number of major attractions, including Dubai Parks and Resorts, IMG Worlds of Adventure, and Global Village. The area is also undergoing a major transformation, with a number of new residential and commercial projects underway.
Projects:
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Cityland Rosseta: A mixed-use development comprising 3,500 residential units, 200 retail units, and a hotel. The project is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in 2025.
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Dubai Hills Mall: A super-regional mall with over 650 stores and restaurants. The mall is currently open and has become a popular destination for shoppers and tourists alike.
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Dubai Hills Park: A 1.2 million square meter park with a variety of amenities, including a skate park, a children’s play area, and a running track. The park is currently open and is a popular spot for families and fitness enthusiasts.
Dubailand is expected to become a major tourist destination in the coming years. The area is also well-positioned to benefit from the growth of the UAE’s economy.
Dubai Hills Estate
Dubai Hills Estate is a premium residential community located between Downtown Dubai and Emirates Hills. The area is home to a number of luxury villas and townhouses, as well as a variety of amenities, including the Dubai Hills Mall and the Dubai Hills Park.
Projects:
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Meraas Tower: A 78-story residential tower with over 900 apartments. The tower is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in 2025.
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Dubai Hills Estate Golf Club: An 18-hole championship golf course designed by Rory McIlroy. The golf course is currently open and is one of the most exclusive golf clubs in the UAE.
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Dubai Hills Business Park: A commercial development with over 1 million square meters of office space. The business park is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in 2025.
Dubai Hills Estate is expected to become one of the most sought-after residential areas in Dubai. The area is well-positioned to benefit from the growth of the UAE’s economy and the increasing demand for luxury housing.
Expo City Dubai
Expo City Dubai is the site of the Expo 2020 Dubai world fair. The area is being transformed into a sustainable city that will feature a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational facilities.
Projects:
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District 2020: A mixed-use development comprising over 145,000 square meters of residential space, 500,000 square meters of office space, and 130,000 square meters of retail space. The project is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in 2025.
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Al Wasl Plaza: A public space that is the heart of Expo City Dubai. The plaza features a variety of attractions, including the iconic Al Wasl Dome and the Garden of the Future.
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Terra – The Sustainability Pavilion: A pavilion that showcases the latest sustainable technologies and solutions. The pavilion is currently open and is a popular destination for visitors to Expo City Dubai.
Expo City Dubai is expected to become a major business and leisure destination. The area is also well-positioned to benefit from the UAE’s commitment to sustainability.
Arjan, Dubai
Arjan is a freehold community located in Dubai Hills Estate. The area is home to a number of new residential projects, including townhouses, villas, and apartments. Arjan is also well-connected to the rest of Dubai, with easy access to major roads and highways.
Major projects:
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Arjan Tower: A 68-storey mixed-use development featuring residential apartments, offices, and retail space.
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Arjan Business Avenue: A commercial development featuring offices, retail space, and a hotel.
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Arjan Boulevard: A 2.5-kilometer pedestrian boulevard lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Arjan is located in close proximity to Dubai Hills Mall, one of the largest malls in the world. The area is also home to Dubai Hills Park, a 1.8-million-square-meter park with a variety of recreational facilities.
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Dubai
JVC is a freehold community located in Jumeirah. The area is home to a mix of residential, commercial, and retail developments. JVC is also well-connected to the rest of Dubai, with easy access to major roads and highways.
Major projects:
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JVC District One: A mixed-use development featuring residential apartments, villas, townhouses, offices, and retail space.
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JVC Citywalk: A retail and entertainment development featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
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JVC Marina: A marina development featuring residential apartments, villas, townhouses, and a yacht club.
JVC is located in close proximity to Dubai Marina, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The area is also home to the Jumeirah Village Circle Pavilion, a multi-purpose event venue.
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
DSO is a free zone located in Dubai. The area is home to a number of technology companies, as well as a number of residential and commercial developments. DSO is also well-connected to the rest of Dubai, with easy access to major roads and highways.
Major projects:
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Dubai Digital Park: A technology park featuring offices, retail space, and a variety of amenities for tech companies.
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Dubai Hills Academy: A K-12 school located in Dubai Hills Estate.
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DSO Sports City: A sports complex featuring a variety of sports facilities, including a cricket stadium, a football stadium, and a tennis stadium.
DSO is the only technology free zone in Dubai. The area is also home to the Dubai Digital Park, which is one of the largest technology parks in the Middle East.
Al Nahda, Dubai
Al Nahda, Dubai, is a vibrant residential community characterized by its diverse housing options, including apartments, villas, and townhouses. It boasts excellent connectivity to the rest of Dubai, thanks to its strategic access to major roads and highways.
Among its noteworthy developments are:
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Al Nahda Towers: An integrated complex comprising residential apartments, offices, and retail spaces.
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Al Nahda Plaza: A bustling shopping destination hosting a wide array of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
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Al Nahda Hospital: A specialized healthcare facility conveniently located within Al Nahda.
What’s more, Al Nahda enjoys close proximity to Dubai International Airport, one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs. The neighborhood is further enriched by an array of educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and various other amenities.
Meydan, Dubai
Meydan in Dubai is known for its iconic Meydan Racecourse and upscale residential developments. Multiple residential projects have been completed, and the area continues to grow. Equestrian enthusiasts are drawn to Meydan, making it a promising investment hub.
Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi is undergoing a cultural and educational transformation, with notable institutions like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and NYU Abu Dhabi. Ongoing developments, including both cultural and residential projects, make this an area of significant investment potential.
Reem Island, Abu Dhabi
Al Reem Island is a man-made island located in Abu Dhabi. The island is home to a number of major projects, including the Maryah Island Central Park, the Sorbonne Abu Dhabi, and the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. Al Reem Island is also well-connected to the rest of Abu Dhabi, with easy access to the mainland via bridges and tunnels.
Al Jurf, Abu Dhabi
Al Jurf, located along the Abu Dhabi coast, is a beachfront community celebrated for its natural beauty and proximity to the Mangrove Natural Reserve. Although in its early development stages, it holds immense potential for investors seeking unspoiled natural surroundings.
The UAE’s real estate market is ever-evolving, and these emerging areas are capturing the attention of investors and homebuyers alike. With unique attractions, ambitious projects, and impressive growth potential, these lesser-known areas are poised to become some of the most sought-after real estate destinations in the near future. Whether you’re looking for cultural immersion, family-friendly living, or high returns on investment, these hidden gems have something for everyone. Keep an eye on these areas as they transform into the UAE’s real estate success stories.
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