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 remains 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.
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, while the second island will be a haven dedicated to entertainment and family-oriented tourism.
If Marsa Al Arab Island’s master plan is to be trusted, you’ll be enthralled by an array of exceptional amenities, starting with the impressive new Wild Wadi Water Park and Marina Park. An extraordinary live theatre will also host the renowned Cirque du Soleil show, making its debut in the Middle East. And that’s not all. The Dubai Pearl Museum will also be unveiled, offering a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
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 popular 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. A 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 the Dubai-based Nakheel Properties, with its distinctive crescent, fronds and trunk, the palm tree-shaped island 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 suits your needs the best.
Palm Jebel Ali
After a 15-year hiatus, the Palm Jebel Ali islands finally got a green signal! Expected to be twice the size of Palm Jumeirah, this man-made island in Dubai will feature a gorgeous residential area with luxury villas, a water park, six marinas, walking and cycling paths, and more.
Upon completion, Jebel Ali will feature a unique, sprawling boardwalk carved into the shape of words from a poem written by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai.
The project developer, Nakheel, is committed to following the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan guidelines. Hence, 30% of the public facilities in Palm Jebel Ali will be powered by renewable energy, showcasing their dedication to sustainability and environmentally friendly practices.
Dubai Islands
Dubai Islands, previously known as Deira Islands, is one of the three palm-shaped islands by Nakheel Properties. Counted as one of the most anticipated upcoming projects in Dubai, this development is a captivating waterfront project comprising four artificial islands situated just off the coast of Dubai.
The Dubai Islands will become a haven for more than 80 resorts and hotels, from luxurious and wellness-focused resorts to boutique, family-friendly, and environmentally-conscious hotels. Souk Al Marfa on Dubai Islands has the honour of being the world’s largest night market.
These islands will showcase an impressive expanse of over 20 kilometres of pristine beaches, approximately two square kilometres of lush parks and open spaces, and exquisite golf courses that offer breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf, among other attractions.
Dubai Islands will be easily accessible by both 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 hospitality and tourism landscape of the region.
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.
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. Meticulously crafted by the renowned Italian architectural firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and Partners, the Bulgari Resort & Residences are a true symbol of opulence.
Jumeirah Bay Island features low-rise buildings and palatial villas that distinctly 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.
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 to feature in the World Islands is The Heart of Europe. Portraying the culture and ambience of Europe, this part of the island will have the capacity to entertain around 16,000 visitors!
Bluewaters Island
Bluewaters Island is another Dubai man-made island which 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 that 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 of the 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, which is 280 metres offshore.
If you plan on staying at the hotel on your visit to Dubai, there’s a plethora of things to do in Burj Al Arab. These include unwinding at the Talise Spa, trying out their fitness centre, enjoying delicious cuisines at Burj Al Arab restaurants, visiting the helipad and spending time at The Terrace.
Even though the construction of some of these artificial islands in Dubai has not yet been completed, there’s no denying the excellence and intelligence in this man-made marvel.
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?
Yes, Dubai islands are man-made. These 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 gets dredged out from the floor of the Arabian Gulf bordering Dubai, after which it gets 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 UAE that sits on the Arabian Peninsula.
Is there a waterpark in Palm Jumeirah?
Yes, Aquaventure 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 wonder to witness in Dubai, there’s 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!
To truly Dubai’s growth, one must see its stunning man-made islands. Here are our top picks.