Here’s a sneak peek of what Dubai will look like in the next decade…
Despite being just 53 years young, Dubai (and the UAE) has made incredible strides, evolving from desert sands into the dazzling metropolis we know today. And it’s far from slowing down, continuously unveiling groundbreaking megaprojects that will only strengthen its global standing.
We’ve got the highly anticipated Etihad Rail, the Dubai Metro expansion, a wave of new skyscrapers, and so much more on the horizon, but…
These 8 upcoming megaprojects are set to completely reshape Dubai’s landscape.
Dubai Reefs
At the COP28 summit held at Expo City in December, HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s Crown Prince, officially unveiled the groundbreaking Dubai Reef project, one of the largest marine reef developments globally. In April 2024, Sheikh Hamdan oversaw the launch of the pilot reef modules, marking the first phase of a 600-square-kilometer reef that will span across Dubai’s waters. With the initial modules now active, the next four years will bring the creation of 20,000 custom-built reef structures in various sizes. Recent updates reveal that HaejooX, a leader in Blue Carbon projects, has been signed on as the official construction contractor for this ambitious venture.
Dubai Mangroves
Led by URB, the visionary team behind Dubai Reefs and The Loop, the Dubai Mangroves project (pending official approval) aims to plant over 100 million mangrove trees across 72 kilometers of coastline. This groundbreaking initiative will feature a range of edutainment experiences, including the Mangrove Visitor Hub, a Botanical Museum, and a Nature Reserve Conservation Center. Visitors can look forward to guided nature walks, educational programs, and hands-on conservation activities.
Palm Jebel Ali
In 2023, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, revealed the masterplan for Palm Jebel Ali, a colossal new project set to be twice the size of Palm Jumeirah, spanning 13.4 square kilometers. Comprising seven interconnected islands, Palm Jebel Ali will host at least 80 new hotels and resorts. While further details remain under wraps, Sheikh Mohammed shared on Twitter that the project will offer “a wide range of entertainment and leisure facilities.” Initial plans included six marinas, a water theme park, and a unique ‘Sea Village’ with homes built over the water.
Nakheel has also announced that the first villas on Palm Jebel Ali, which went on sale in September 2023, are expected to be handed over by late 2026.
The Island by Wasl
Originally announced in 2017, there has been little recent news about the development of The Island, situated near the Burj Al Arab. However, according to Meed, developer Wasl awarded a contract for the island’s construction in November 2023, confirming that the project remains on track. Meed reports that Wasl has engaged China State Construction Engineering Corporation for the construction, with the deal valued at an estimated USD 1.2 billion (Dhs 4.4 billion).
During an MGM earnings call on November 8, 2023, MGM President and CEO Bill Hornbuckle shared exciting updates about The Island. He confirmed that the luxury development is currently “under construction” and will feature 1,400 hotel rooms from the MGM Grand, Bellagio, and Aria brands. Although the initial project plans included a potential casino, Hornbuckle clarified in the recent earnings call that the USD 2.5 billion Dubai project has not received approval for a casino and will proceed without one.
Hatta Beach
Hatta, the popular exclave in Dubai, is set to welcome several exciting megaprojects, the latest of which received approval in January 2024 from His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council. The ‘Hatta Beach’ development will feature a man-made ‘Crystal Lagoon’ system, spanning 10,000 square meters, surrounded by a vibrant array of leisure facilities.
Other projects within the Hatta Master Development Plan include the construction of eco-friendly hotels and luxury resorts, cable cars offering breathtaking views over Hatta Dam, and stunning waterfalls. The plan also features hiking and biking trails, the restoration of Wadi Lim Lake, and enhancements to UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Hatta tombs and Falaj Al Shari’a, which hold significant archaeological value dating back to the Bronze and Iron Ages. Additionally, Hatta Souq will showcase 70 commercial units, while the downtown area will see both residential and commercial development. New attractions are also planned for Hatta Heritage Village, along with the development of the Leem lake area.
Jebel Ali Beach
The Jebel Ali Beach megaproject has been approved by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council. This ambitious initiative will create a 6.6 km sandy stretch in the southern part of the emirate, making it the longest public beach in Dubai. The development will feature an open beach, viewing platforms, and various recreational and service areas for beachgoers of all ages, including zones for sports and marine activities, among other amenities.
Dubai Islands
Remember Deira Islands? In August 2022, master developer Nakheel announced that this megaproject off the coast of Deira will now be known as Dubai Islands, with ambitious plans to transform the five-island development into a groundbreaking waterfront living experience. Each island will feature its own unique offerings, from innovative residential options to cultural hubs, recreational sports beaches, and beach clubs. The islands will host over 80 resorts and hotels, including luxury and wellness resorts, boutique accommodations, family-friendly options, and eco-conscious hotels—all designed to enhance Dubai’s tourism and hospitality landscape.
Currently, the development includes Riu and Centara hotels, with plans to add a Rixos hotel and residences as well. It also boasts 20 kilometers of stunning beaches, including a Blue Flag-certified beach—an esteemed award granted to beaches that meet rigorous environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility standards.
The World Islands
The World Islands is yet another ultra-ambitious island project that was launched in 2008. After more than a decade of inactivity, there’s now significant progress happening at this offshore archipelago, with various megaprojects emerging across the islands.
You can already experience the enchanting resort of Anantara, a luxury hotel brand from Thailand, along with voco Monaco Dubai (formerly Cote D’Azur Monaco). On this same island, you’ll discover ‘the raining street,’ the largest swimming pool in the Middle East, and a variety of soon-to-open hotels, all crafted to infuse Dubai with a touch of European charm.
Dubai-based Amali Properties has recently announced plans for an idyllic private island within the prestigious World Islands archipelago mega project. This iconic new residential development aims to become a millionaire’s playground, offering what is billed as “Dubai’s first true residential sail-in sail-out experience.”
In 2025, Zuha Island will be added to this exclusive lineup, brought to you by the creators of Abu Dhabi’s stunning Zaya resort. This private island will feature a select collection of just 30 six-bedroom residential villas, alongside a boutique retreat that includes 70 villas with private pools, a beach club, and a tranquil spa and healing center.
