Should You Invest In Dubai Islands?
Table of Contents
Introduction
Welcome to Dubai Islands! Today, we’re diving into one of Dubai’s most ambitious and exciting developments. Whether you’re considering a visit, planning an investment, or simply curious, this guide will give you a comprehensive overview of what Dubai Islands is all about, its potential, and what it means for Dubai’s ever-growing landscape.
What Are Dubai Islands?
First, let’s clear the air: Dubai Islands wasn’t always called that. It used to be known as Deira Islands, named after its location in the historic Deira area of Dubai. If you’ve ever flown into Dubai, you’ve likely landed near this northern part of the city. Over time, the name evolved to reflect its new identity, and Dubai Islands is undoubtedly more fitting for what’s to come.
If you want to watch a video on this topic, here’s a video by our co-founder Kevin McKenzie.
Vision and Development
Dubai Islands is envisioned as a luxurious and self-sufficient community. Here’s what’s planned:
- 86 Hotels and Resorts: A mix of luxury and mid-tier accommodations to attract tourists.
- Two Golf Courses: World-class facilities to cater to golf enthusiasts.
- Nine Marinas: Perfect for yacht owners and water sports lovers.
- A Full Shopping Mall: Promising retail and entertainment options.
- Extensive Beachfront Access: With dedicated areas for families, pet owners, and tourists.
In short, Dubai Islands is designed to be a mini-paradise for visitors and a hotspot for investors.
Location: Pros and Cons
Let’s start with the basics: location. Dubai Islands is situated in Deira, close to Dubai International Airport (DXB). While proximity to the airport is a plus for tourists, it also means the area experiences noise from air traffic—a con for potential residents.
Travel Times
- Dubai Marina: 41 minutes without traffic.
- Downtown Dubai: 33 minutes without traffic.
- DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre): 31 minutes without traffic.
For long-term residents, this distance from key areas like Marina or DIFC might be inconvenient. However, for tourists who plan to spend most of their time on the island itself, this is less of an issue.
Traffic Concerns
Traffic during peak hours or after popular events, such as sunsets at the beach, can add 10-15 minutes to commute times. The good news? Dubai is actively building new infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and highways, to address this issue.
Community and Living Experience
Tourism-Oriented
Dubai Islands is not likely to become a hub for long-term residents. Instead, it’s tailored for tourists and short-term visitors, offering a resort-style living experience. With everything from luxury hotels to marinas, visitors won’t need to venture far for entertainment or dining.
Local Competition
The Deira area is known for its budget accommodations, with many hotels and Airbnbs priced as low as $60 per night. While this may initially create an image problem for Dubai Islands, the high-end offerings within the development are leagues ahead in quality and experience. The luxury-focused amenities ensure that it stands apart from the rest of Deira.
Investment Opportunities
Pricing
Currently, property prices in Dubai Islands range from 2,500 AED to 3,000 AED per square foot, making it one of the more affordable waterfront communities in Dubai. For comparison:
Bluewaters Island: Prices exceed 5,000 AED per square foot.
While Dubai Islands may not reach Bluewaters’ level due to its less central location, there’s significant potential for appreciation as the community develops. Early investors stand to gain the most, especially as infrastructure and amenities are completed.
Timeline and Deadlines
One of the unique aspects of Dubai Islands is the strict development timeline. Developers are required to complete projects within five years, ensuring that the area doesn’t remain underdeveloped for long.
Challenges to Consider
- Dog-Friendly Beaches: A rare find in Dubai.
- Family Beaches: Long stretches of sandy shores perfect for relaxation.
Comparing Communities
