The desire to live in waterfront projects has grown worldwide, as life along the shores of cities like Miami, Sydney, and Hong Kong continues to evolve and adapt to the cultures, customs, and lifestyles of both residents and visitors alike. The same for waterfront properties in Dubai. Prices along the banks of Dubai Creek have witnessed a 150 percent increase over the past few years, with some unofficial indicators suggesting the possibility of similar growth in property prices across the Palm Islands (Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali, and The World Islands) and Dubai Marina.
Main takeaways:
- Property Boom: Dubai Creek waterfront property prices rose 150% in five years.
- High Demand: Strong interest from singles, professionals, and families.
- Lifestyle Appeal: Culture Village and waterfront areas offer leisure, culture, and beach access.
- Global Trend: Waterfront living is rising globally, boosted in Dubai by freehold laws.
Waterfront properties in Dubai not only offer stunning water views, but also provide residents with a high-end lifestyle and a welcoming social environment that is often hard to find in city centers. Suhail Abedian, founder and managing director of Sunland Group and managing director of Emirates Sunland Group, said: “Although the dream of owning a property on the banks of Dubai Creek or along the Emirate’s shores once lived in the imagination of many, achieving this dream was limited to citizens of the GCC countries. That was until freehold ownership laws brought about a fundamental transformation, leading to the launch of waterfront projects and turning them into a real estate market in their own right. These projects now attract steadily growing demand, as the dream has become accessible to all.”
Amid this growing demand, property prices along the banks of Dubai Creek have seen a 150 percent increase over the past five years, with some unofficial indicators suggesting the potential for similar growth in property prices on Palm Island and in Dubai Marina. These coastal properties along the waterfront not only offer breathtaking water views but also provide residents with a high-end lifestyle and a desirable social environment that is difficult to find in city centers.
Just imagine the luxury of taking a morning stroll along the beach—it’s a priceless privilege. The rising demand for coastal living was confirmed by a study conducted by FutureBrand on the appeal of various types of housing in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. The study found that 84 percent of participants preferred living in waterfront apartments, compared to 75 percent who favored city center living, and 64 percent who preferred homes near golf courses. Meanwhile, 82 percent showed interest in the lifestyle offered by villas located on islands or within beachfront resorts.
Sunland Group focuses its waterfront and coastal development projects in the cities of Gold Coast—its main base in Australia—and Dubai, as both cities offer buyers the benefits of waterfront living, captivating sea views, and vibrant social and entertainment hubs, such as Surfers Paradise.
These projects have seen growing interest from a wide range of homebuyers, including singles, young professionals, small families, and anyone seeking an enjoyable place to live or spend a holiday.
He adds: “Three of the group’s projects in Dubai are located in Culture Village, situated along the banks of Dubai Creek, while the fourth project is in the waterfront area. These locations offer distinct beachfront environments, yet they share similar attractions. Culture Village has all the features that qualify it to become a central hub for professionals, who will enjoy a warm social atmosphere—whether visiting the cafes and restaurants lining the creek, or exploring the surrounding cultural landmarks. Meanwhile, the waterfront location stands out as an ideal destination for water sports and relaxing on the beach.”
