DAMAC Hills 2 (previously known as Akoya Oxygen), is a secluded residential development in Dubai, designed and developed by Dubai’s leading real estate company, DAMAC Properties. It is one of the top golf communities in Dubai drawing significant interest from both, investors and renters looking for family homes in a quaint neighbourhood.
The area is also known as Akoya O2 to represent its main theme of an eco-friendly community. To promote a tranquil lifestyle, the community is set around an international golf course featuring landscaped gardens, water fountains, parks and leafy boulevards. According to Bayut & dubizzle’s Dubai Sales Market Report for H1 2023, DAMAC Hills 2 is the most popular area in the city for affordable villas.
Strategically located between Jebel Ali – Lehbab Road (E77) and Al Ain – Dubai Highway (E66), DAMAC Hills 2 is one of the much-hyped residential projects by DAMAC. The area allows connectivity to many commercial and residential hubs located in the city. Offering a family-friendly environment amidst lush green settings, Akoya Oxygen has leisure towns, several residential clusters, retail options and other world-class amenities. In the past 12 months, over 2,500 sales transactions in Damac Hills 2 were made as per the DLD data. Meanwhile, the properties rented in DAMAC Hills 2 amounted over AED 300M in the same timeframe.
The contemporary residential properties come in various configurations and sizes surrounding an 18-hole championship golf course. This golf development is also considered a top-favourite location in Dubai to buy 3-bed villas on a budget. Residential units make use of energy-efficient materials, an air-conditioning system, environment-friendly lighting methods, low-emission paints and solar water heating systems. Moreover, all wastes generated from homes will be separated for recycling.
As per the masterplan of the area, there are five leisure spots in DAMAC Hills 2; Motor Town, Water Town, Down Town, Equestrian Town and Sports Town.
With tons of attractions ranging from Splash Pad, a kid’s water park to Californian-inspired Malibu Beach, the Water Town is a perfect spot for youngsters. Those who are more into sports can find facilities for football, cricket, tennis and others at Sports Town. Families can spend a perfect day at Down Town where a Zen Garden, waterside cafe and other amenities are available while Motor Town and Equestrian Town are home to go-karting tracks and horse riding facilities respectively. Moreover, there are communal swimming pools and play areas in each cluster to promote a healthy lifestyle.
DAMAC Hills 2 Community Centre, also called Akoya Oxygen Community Centre, is a two-level urban retail destination spread across an area of 6,000 sq. m. This retail centre houses Carrefour supermarket, Cherry Tree Nursery, a clinic under Saudi German Hospital, 900 sq. m. of gym and other retail, food and service outlets.
Trump World Golf Club Dubai is the highlight of the area currently under development. The golf course will feature a state-of-the-art clubhouse, a golf pro shop and a wide range of restaurants.
Approximately a 15-minute drive away from DAMAC Hills, some parts of DAMAC Hills 2 (Akoya Oxygen Dubai) have been completed. Here, one can find luxury villas, townhouses and apartments. Those interested in larger units can find penthouses. All residential properties are surrounded by parklands and expansive green spaces and most villas and townhouses have access to private lawns. Besides the contemporary private properties, there are furnished and serviced hotel apartments in DAMAC Hills 2 (Akoya Oxygen).
Also, there are freehold plots in DAMAC Hills 2 (Akoya Oxygen) starting from AED 400k. These plots of land can be utilised for the customised construction of villas and townhomes. The community is popular for offering freehold residential plots in Dubai at competitive prices.
The main contractors to execute the master plan include Arabtec Construction and China State Construction Engineering Corporation. The DAMAC Hills 2 master plan includes over 10,000 independent villas and townhouses, around 1,200 apartments, over 2,000 hotel rooms and 650 serviced villas, each offering panoramic views of the golf course.
There is a wide range of choices for rental properties in DAMAC Hills 2 (Akoya Oxygen). Villas, townhouses and apartments vary in configuration and size. One can choose from 3-bed to 5-bed townhouses, 3-bed to 6-bed villas, studios and 1-bed to 3-bed apartments in the community. Those interested in renting in Akoya O2 can check out the Vardon and Claret clusters.
Interested investors looking for properties for sale in DAMAC Hills 2 can choose between a wide range of villas and townhouses. Also, there are some freehold apartments on offer. The sale trends in Akoya Oxygen are market competitive, Vardon, Albizia and Amargo are some popular clusters for buying properties in Akoya Oxygen.
Interested investors can consider properties in DAMAC Hills 2 (Akoya Oxygen). The development ranks among the best projects in Dubai to invest in off-plan properties. While some clusters are completed, some parts of Akoya are still under construction. Once the entire development is completed, valuable investment opportunities are expected to be boosted.
Studio apartments offer the highest ROI in DAMAC Hills 2 (Akoya by DAMAC) of 17.60%. 4-bed units generate about 8.71% return on investment. 1-bed apartments offer an ROI of about 7.59%. Whereas, the ROI of 2-bedroom flats averages at 7.18%. The ROI for 3-bedroom flats is 6.37%.
5-bed flats offer the highest ROI in DAMAC Hills 2 (Akoya by DAMAC) of 6.87%. 3-bedroom flats generate about 6.38% return on investment. 6-bed flats offer an ROI of about 6.34%. Whereas, the ROI of 2-bedroom flats averages at 6.30%. The ROI for 4-bed units is 6.20%.
DAMAC Hills 2 (Akoya by Oxygen) is a haven for property seekers. With many buildings and property types to choose from, it can be a daunting task to pick the one that’s right for you. Take a look at the top five sib-communities in DAMAC Hlls 2 to help your cause.
Those looking for DAMAC Hills 2 (Akoya Oxygen) floor plans can browse through the various 2D and 3D layouts available on Bayut’s website. You can also find detailed floor plans for each community in DAMAC Hills 2.
DAMAC Hills 2 Hotel in DAMAC Hills 2 is managed by Edge by Rotana. It features 295 suites and rooms with in-room entertainment and contemporary aesthetics. Urban Bar Deli is the restaurant in the hotel that offers International cuisine while Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club and temperature-controlled swimming pools are there to promote a healthy lifestyle.
Since each residential property features dedicated parking, residents and visitors need not worry about finding a spot close by. The master plan is carefully designed to reduce pollution on the roads. There will be dedicated spaces for cycles and hybrid vehicles.
Since the majority of the road infrastructure inside the community has been completed, getting around the area is quite convenient. However, there is no bus or metro service running within or near the area. But if you must use RTA buses, you can find them at the bus stations in the neighbouring community, Mira.
Those with private conveyance can take complete benefit of a well-connected road network. There are four major highways that residents can use to get to key areas in the emirate. Jebel Ali – Lehbab Road (E77) is to the south connecting to Al Ain – Dubai Road (E66) in less than a 20-minute drive. Moreover, Al Qudra Road (D63) bounds Akoya O2 from the west and by taking Bypass Road on the south-eastern gates, one can access Al Maktoum International Airport. Al Qudra Road also connects with Emirates Road (E611) from where the central areas such as Motor City and Al Barsha are easily accessible.
The community precincts in Akoya O2 will feature amenities arranged around plazas housing local grocery stores, convenience shops, eateries, mosques, schools, post offices and health care facilities including clinics and gyms.
Residents can shop for groceries and other items from Carrefour Supermarket in DAMAC Hills 2. You can spot the shop in the community’s retail centre. Besides, other supermarkets near DAMAC Hills 2 would include Spinneys and Choithrams situated around a 14-minute drive away.
Currently, there is only one mosque in DAMAC Hills 2 located in the cluster of Zinnia. Residents can also drive to Abdullah Mosque, which is around 25 minutes away via E77. Churches are found in the Jebel Ali community while temples in Dubai are generally concentrated in Bur Dubai. Both areas require a long drive by car or taxi.
Shining Stars Early Childhood Centre and Cherry Tree Nursery are the two nursery schools in the area. Both offer the British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum which includes several learning and fun activities. The Shining Stars Early Childhood Centre provides care for 1.5 to 4-year-old children. It is located in Virdis Towers in the area while Cherry Tree Nursery is located inside Akoya Oxygen Retail Centre.
Since primary and secondary schools in DAMAC Hills 2 (Akoya Oxygen) are under development, there are a few options in the neighbouring communities including Arabian Ranches 2, Mudon and Uptown Motor City. The most notable option here includes the Jebel Ali School (rated Very Good by the KHDA) in DAMAC Hills which offers the EYFS and National Curriculum of England. At the same distance, there is South View School (SVS) located in the Remraam community.
Those looking for options for higher education will have to travel all the way to the Academic City. There, you will find international colleges like The American University in the Emirates and Heriot-Watt University Dubai as well as notable government institutions including Zayed University and The University of Dubai.
A branch of Saudi German Clinics serves the DAMAC Hills 2 community. Soon there will be more speciality clinics and general hospitals in DAMAC Hills 2. As of now, one can find Mediclinic Parkview Hospital on Umm Suqeim Road at a 22-minute drive. Aster Clinic is another healthcare facility in the locality of Arabian Ranches that is 16 minutes away from the community.
A project of DAMAC Properties, Akoya Oxygen is a 20 to 22-minute drive from DAMAC Hills. While there are no immediate neighbours, it is located near Emaar’s master development, Reem where sub-communities such as Mira and Mira Oasis have been developed. The car ride towards Mira Oasis would be 22 minutes long if you take Bypass Road. Another master development, The Valley is situated in proximity. The popular sub-communities of The Valley are Rivana by Emaar and Elora The Valley.
Moreover, Akoya O2 is away from the main city but connected to key destinations including the Mall of the Emirates and Al Maktoum International Airport via four major highways. Major business and leisure hubs such as Internet City, Media City, Studio City and Barsha Heights (Tecom) are also nearby.
Soon the community will feature a full-fledged shopping centre in the retail area. Until then, these are some malls near DAMAC Hills 2 (Akoya Oxygen):
Dubai Outlet Mall is a 20-minute drive away via Al Ain Road. It has an art gallery, a food court and fun activities. Also, there are many brand stores in Outlet Mall including Mango and Tommy Hilfiger. Further, Cityland Mall is 25 minutes away in Wadi Al Safa. It is one of the top malls in Dubai featuring a central park and amphitheatre. If you are looking for options for grocery shopping, gymming and gaming under one roof, you can go to The Ranches Souk in Arabian Ranches.
The master plan includes many local eateries and fine-dining restaurants. Currently, residents have access to many restaurants in DAMAC Hills 2 (Akoya Oxygen) located in the Akoya Retail Centre and neighbouring communities including Mudon, Arabian Ranches and Dubai Outlet Mall.
Some well-known ones include Al Tawon Restaurant, Taqado Mexican Chicken, Tuk Tuk Thai, Chuck E Cheese and Abatjour Bistro. Some other dining options are available in the Trump Golf Course offering three different ambience settings. There’s PRATO with Italian cuisine and 71 Sports Bar with pool tables and live sports that guests can enjoy while taking their favourite international comfort food.
Akoya O2 Dubai boasts a Water Town with a refreshing, green and cool atmosphere. It will feature a Malibu Beach, lazy river, paddle boarding and wave surfing. The kid’s water park in the area will have a Splash Pad, water slides and a water playground. Other facilities include a lake cafe and a floating cinema. Once it is completed, there won’t be a boring day here. Still, those looking to soak in the sunlight and beach waves can hit Jumeirah Public Beach. The ride will be 30 to 40 minutes long depending on traffic conditions.
DAMAC Hills 2 (Akoya Oxygen) will be easy to locate as the southern end will feature a signature cluster of high-rise towers. These skyscrapers will serve as a landmark at the entrance of Akoya Oxygen. If you’re heading down from Dubai Hills Estate, it will take around 30 minutes to reach via Al Qudra Road (D63).
The master plan includes some unique features such as a rainforest surrounding the central area of Akoya, a hydroponic bistro and an eatery. Moreover, with the completion of Vista Lux, residents will have access to 1 million sq. ft. of retail area, hotels, restaurants and leisure facilities connected via waterways and leafy walkways.
Those who like long drives can head to Al Qudra Lake, an ideal place to spend the weekend with family and friends. The place is peaceful and exciting for kids and adults alike. Moreover, if you are a fan of history and culture, Al Marmoom Heritage Village is easily accessible from Akoya O2. On the way via the Expo Road (E77) route, one can find The Sevens Stadium.
Spanning over 30,000 sq. ft. the Trump World Golf Club Dubai is the major leisure spot of this area and will feature a clubhouse, hotel, restaurants and a pro shop. The 18-hole golf course will also offer practice facilities with PGA-qualified coaches.
Living in DAMAC Akoya Oxygen Dubai means you are surrounded by courtyards, golf courses and natural greenery. The community is all about a green lifestyle, hence, all clusters feature fountains, playgrounds, gardens and jogging tracks. Some sub-communities are also pet-friendly. There are around 7 to 10 mini-golf courses within the community. Other facilities include a go-karting circuit, picnic area and fishing lake.
CK Fitness Gym and Fitness Edge gym in DAMAC Hills 2 provides the opportunity for a full-fledged workout session. While Le Vendôme Ladies Beauty Lounge and The Corner Barber are there within the community to provide grooming services.
Residents can catch up with one of the biggest annual festivals in Dubai, the Al Marmoom Heritage Festival. It is held in the month of April and features many fun activities like traditional dance performances, live shows, food fest and crafts market besides the big Al Marmoom Camel Races.
Before moving, don’t forget to weigh the pros and cons of living in DAMAC Hills 2 (Akoya Oxygen). As of now, the community does not have a public transportation system, unlike the rest of Dubai. It is deliberately tucked away from the rush of the mainland to promote the natural environment and healthy lifestyle. Those looking to settle around here are recommended to use private vehicles. The community will help reduce waste and air pollution levels with the use of hybrid cars and bicycles. Akoya Oxygen is a family-friendly area and also one of the best communities in Dubai to buy townhouses.
DAMAC Hills 2 (Akoya Oxygen) is located on the outskirts of Dubai. It is located close to the Minhad Airbase and lies in proximity to the four major highways connecting it to the rest of Dubai.
Many of the rental properties in DAMAC Akoya Oxygen Dubai are chiller-free units but this depends on your landlord.
Yes, interested investors can buy off-plan properties in DAMAC Hills 2 in upcoming projects such as Navitas Hotel and Residences, Just Cavalli Villas and Viridis Residence and Hotel Apartments.
Cover image credits: DAMAC Properties official website