Formerly known at Deira Islands, in August 2022, the project rebranded as Dubai Islands.

The change came as developer Nakheel jumped on plans laid out in the 2040 Urban Master Plan. The site will eventually have almost 100 hotels, from affordable options to luxury resorts. The five-island development aligns with the UAE’s ongoing push to be a global destination of choice for residents and investors, the Dubai developer said. “Dubai Islands are an integral part of the future vision for the emirate, focusing on enhancing the health, happiness and wellbeing of residents and visitors, as well as providing the highest standards and variety of urban infrastructure and facilities,” Naaman Atallah, chief executive officer, at Nakheel said. The islands, located along Dubai’s northern coastline, will feature 20 kilometres of beaches, and two sq km of park and open spaces – a major focus in the emirate’s 2040 Urban Master Plan to promote “vibrant and healthy communities.”

Dubai Islands will increase the length of beaches and areas dedicated to public parks. A well-connected network of marina promenades and pathways for water and road transportation, walking and biking. Nakheel aims to house over 80 resorts and hotels across the 17-square-kilometre project. These span luxury and wellness resorts, boutiques, family and eco-conscious hotels, supporting Dubai’s ambition to boost the tourism and hospitality sector by increasing the number of hotel keys.

What is Dubai Islands? Dubai Islands also have nine marinas and two golf courses, connected to the mainland by the Infinity Bridge. There will also be more than 38,000 residences built on Dubai Islands. As well as Marina Island, there will be The Central Island; Shore Island; Golf Island; and Elite Island, envisioned as a private island for wealthy residents, with waterfront villas and an exclusive clubhouse.

The Central Island

One of the largest of the five islands is The Central Island. Described as the watersports hub of the development, Central Island will have its own surfing park, theme park and water park. It will have Deira Mall at its centre, itself one of the largest malls in the region with 4.5 million sq ft of leasable space, more than 1,000 shops, cafes, restaurants and entertainment spaces, all spread over three floors. It will also be home to The Night Market, the world’s largest night market and modern interpretation of the traditional Arabian souk, with nearly 5,300 shops and 100 quayside cafés and restaurants. The Central Island is already home to RIU and Centara hotels, and plans to house a total of 37 hotels and resorts. Plans also show a potential hospital, school, police station and ambulance station, all on the Central Island.

Shore Island

Shore Island is described as offering “rejuvenating resort vibes,” by Nakheel and is likely the “Sports Country Club Island,” mentioned in plans. This island will house an exclusive sports country club; a soccer and tennis academy; outdoor pools; and an archery zone. It also looks to facilitate horseback riding, cycling, skateboarding and other recreational sports. It plans to have a private beach club; a nine-hole golf course and a boutique resort and marina.

Elite Island

Elite Island appears to be the smallest of the five-island cluster. It will boast signature estate lots and a private marina, along with waterfront and waterfront-access villas. It will also have its own clubhouse.

When is Dubai Islands opening?

Handover is expected in Q3 2025 for Central Island.