03/02/2026
Thank you January. Hello February.
In a month where my team were no. 1 in the company, many personal bests and a record month for the team set, there was some really noteworthy projects launched and master plans unveiled.
Whilst many headlines talk about records, I took the time to profile buyers to understand why they are investing now and / or upping sticks and moving to Dubai in the coming years.
Truth is that there isn't a sufficient number of properties to accommodate people / families moving to Dubai in CERTAIN segments, which is driving the demand in off-plan in communities like Cedarwood Villas in JGE 2 and master communities like Design District that are already established and being enhanced in terms of lifestyle, amenities but also communities where living and work converge.
DIFC has been widely recognised as one of the most complete "WORK-LIVE-PLAY" master communities so how does one improve on that?
Well, last week the new Masterplan for DIFC Zabeel District was unveiled by Shiekh Mohammed and it is like nothing that has been seen before, taking all of the good from DIFC and bringing it to another level that few is any other leading global financial hub will match.
Why is it being launched now?
Well, if you recall, approx. 5 years ago Dubai's 2040 Urban Plan was announced which was followed a year later by D33 and what has happened in the interim is an outstanding accomplishment that now warrants DIFC Zabeel District to be launch to accommodate the demand and growth trajectory that Dubai in on towards meeting one of the key objectives of being a Global Financial Hub that will incorporate Fintect and AI.
The first phase is due to complete by 2030 which will incorporate a Grade A Offices, Retail, low density residential accommodation with 20% Green Space, AI Campus, Art Gallery, Branded Hotels, University, School and a pedestrian link to DIFC.
The first residential buildings, The Residences, are opening EOIs this week, that will offer 1-3 bed apartments and a limited number of Signature 3 & 4 Duplex Penthouses.
It's special, and so it should be, as it's positioned between the Sheikh's Offices in Emirates Tower and the Royal Palce. legacy