All you need to know about the Dubai man-made islands
Perhaps, the most interesting part about living in Dubai is that the word ‘impossible’ no longer exists in your dictionary. Artificial archipelagos exemplify the city’s ambitious feats of engineering and are a true testament to its progress. A hallmark of the emirate’s beauty, these Dubai man-made islands are a highlight in the city’s growing property market and the tourism industry. Are you curious about what makes these Dubai artificial islands so appealing? Read on to find out!
Dubai Man-made Islands: No Small Feat
Dubai’s artificial islands are an architectural marvel. Here’s the list of the top islands you need to know about.
Palm Jebel Ali
Dubai is known for its ambitious and innovative projects and the Palm Jebel Ali Island is one of them. This people-centric development by Nakheel will provide residents with luxurious living, entertainment, recreational spaces and stunning views of the surroundings.
The new Palm Jebel Ali master plan envisions a vibrant community with over 80 hotels and residential spaces capable of accommodating 35,000 families. This ambitious development demonstrates Dubai’s commitment to expanding its urban landscape while focusing on quality of life.
In September 2023, Nakheel introduced the first phase of Palm Jebel Ali villas for sale in two distinct collections: The Coral Collection and The Beach Collection. These waterfront villas are available in eight unique styles, ensuring a diverse range of options for prospective buyers.
Nakheel’s dedication to sustainability is evident in its commitment to the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. The developer plans to power 30% of Palm Jebel Ali’s public facilities with renewable energy, reflecting a progressive approach to environmental stewardship.
Dubai Islands
Dubai Islands is one of the three palm-shaped islands by Nakheel Properties. Counted as one of the most anticipated new developments in Dubai, this captivating waterfront project is situated just off the coast of Deira.
Souk Al Marfa on Dubai Islands has the honour of being the world’s largest night market. Spread across 17 square kilometres, this artificial island will be divided into five clusters: Central, Marina, Golf, Shore and Elite. The development will offer a range of amenities, including:
- Over 80 luxury hotels and resorts
- Off-plan projects, including Bay Villas
- 20 kilometres of pristine beaches
- World-class golf courses overlooking the Arabian Gulf
Dubai Islands will be easily accessible by land and sea, thanks to well-connected road bridges and water transport options. As an integral part of the emirate’s future vision, the Dubai Islands represent a significant development that promises to elevate the region’s hospitality and tourism landscape.
Jumeirah Bay Island
A 6 million sq. ft. titanic seahorse-shaped artificial island by Meraas, Jumeirah Bay Island is an exclusive destination just off the coast of Jumeirah Beach Road.
This luxurious island is a magnet for high-net-worth individuals, offering palatial villas with panoramic sea views. One of the most expensive off-plan villa sales in Dubai was recently concluded here in September 2024, with a property fetching AED 125 million.
The island is also home to Bulgari Resort and Residences, a statement hotel that embodies sophistication and elegance. It has 101 rooms and suites, complemented by 20 luxurious hotel villas and an array of opulent amenities.
Jumeirah Bay Island features low-rise buildings and palatial villas that blend traditional and modern designs. If you like tranquillity and calmness around where you live, villas for rent in Jumeirah Bay Island are a good option.
The World Islands
How would you feel about a 3D world map made of small artificial islands? The mega project was kickstarted by the famous Nakheel Properties back in 2003. Comprising seven distinct island groups, The World Islands represent each continent: Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Europe, North America, Oceania and South America.
These seven islands are divided into around 300 small islands to shape the world map. While there have been some initial hiccups, several islands in this project are complete and feature properties for sale. This development is considered one of the top residential islands in Dubai.
One of the popular tourist staycations in the World Islands is The Heart of Europe. Portraying the culture and ambience of Europe, this part of the island can entertain around 16,000 visitors!
Marsa Al Arab
Marsa Al Arab is an opulent tourist destination designed to grace the Dubai coastline. This visionary project, a collaboration between Dubai Holding and the esteemed Jumeirah Group, was conceived as a part of the government’s 2020 vision to attract 20 million visitors to Dubai. The island will also be home to Jumeirah Al Marsa Al Arab Resort.
Comprising two islands spanning four million sq. ft., Marsa Al Arab will introduce an impressive 2.2 kilometres of pristine beachfront to the Dubai coastline. The first island will serve as an exclusive luxury resort, offering an unparalleled experience for travellers. The second island will be a haven dedicated to entertainment and family-oriented tourism.
Pearl Jumeirah
Another project by Meraas, Pearl Jumeirah Dubai, is home to villas and townhouses. Potential homeowners have the unique opportunity to acquire a plot and construct their dream home.
The project boasts seven prestigious residential areas, a bustling town centre adorned with retail hubs, schools, mosques, a scenic 2 km promenade, inviting beaches and waterfront hotels.
A famous landmark on the island, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa is ideal for those searching for a lavish and indulgent getaway. With its distinctive combination of modern aesthetics and sophisticated allure, the resort is counted amongst the best hotels in Jumeirah.
Palm Jumeirah
When you think of Dubai man-made islands, Palm Jumeirah is usually the first to come to mind. Part of ‘The Palm Islands’, which includes the Palm Jebel Ali and the Dubai Islands, Palm Jumeirah was one of the world’s most highly-anticipated real estate projects at the time of its launch.
Developed by Nakheel Properties, the palm tree-shaped island, with its distinctive crescent, fronds and trunk, is one of the most celebrated developments in Dubai.
Palm Jumeirah is known for its swanky hotels, active nightlife and sumptuous restaurants. It is also home to one of the most luxurious hotels in the region: Atlantis, The Palm. If you want to move there, check out apartments for rent in Palm Jumeirah and see which one best suit your needs.
Bluewaters Island
Bluewaters Island is another Dubai man-made island that features exciting activities for you to enjoy and participate in. This project by Meraas Holdings opened to the public in the latter half of 2018. Since then, this location has enjoyed tremendous popularity as a tourist destination in Dubai. The island features over 200 hotels, apartment multiplexes, dining options, retail stores and townhouses. Also, there are various things to do on Bluewaters Island if you plan to visit this Dubai man-made island.
Some top tourist attractions you can find on this island include Ain Dubai and Madame Tussauds Museum. As if these attractions aren’t enough, the culinary scene at the island is certainly to die for! From seafood to Mexican delights, the restaurants at Bluewaters Island are the perfect place to enjoy great food and good company!
Burj Al Arab
We have certainly known Burj Al Arab for its iconic sail-like shape, but did you know that it is included in the list of man-made islands in Dubai? Constructed back in 1999, the most talked-about structure in Dubai stands at a massive 1,053 feet and remains one of the most popular attractions in the city. The structure is upheld on 250 underwater pillars, knitted together by sand. It is located on an island made over reclaimed land 280 metres offshore.
If you plan on staying at the hotel on your visit to Dubai, there are a plethora of things to do in Burj Al Arab. These include unwinding at the Talise Spa, enjoying delicious cuisine at Burj Al Arab restaurants, visiting the helipad and spending time at The Terrace.
Even though construction on some of these artificial islands in Dubai has not yet been completed, there’s no denying their excellence.
Now that you know all about the man-made islands in the city, check out some of the other record-breaking facts about Dubai!
FAQs About Dubai Man-made Islands
How are Dubai Islands made artificially?
Dubai Islands are man-made. They are built through a process commonly known as ‘Land Reclamation’, which involves manually raising the height of the seabed. In the case of the man-made islands in Dubai, sand is dredged out from the floor of the Arabian Gulf bordering Dubai, after which it is sprayed on the sea.
Is Dubai an artificial island?
Despite being home to some awe-inspiring residential islands, Dubai itself is not an artificial island. It is a thriving modern city in the UAE that sits on the Arabian Peninsula.
Is there a waterpark in Palm Jumeirah?
Yes, Aquaventure Waterpark is located in Atlantis, The Palm and is the perfect place to beat the heat during the hot season.
Are there artificial islands in Abu Dhabi?
You might be surprised to know that there are over 200 islands in the UAE capital. Check out this list of popular residential islands in Abu Dhabi!
With this, we reach the end of our blog on Dubai’s man-made islands. However, man-made islands are not the only wonders to witness in the city. There are a multitude of top tourist attractions in Dubai that reel in visitors from around the world. Whether you are in the city for business or pleasure, there are a number of things to do in Dubai.
Stay tuned to MyBayut for more exciting information on Dubai and its neighbouring emirates!
