When we talk about luxury, we rarely think of a single island, but the UAE’s islands are the ultimate playground.
Imagine a place where every sunrise paints a different skyline, and your balcony feels like a private runway.
That’s why island living pulls investors who crave prestige and a solid ROI.
I’m a senior analyst with UAE Real‑Estate Analytics, a respected real‑estate analytics firm.
What you’ll get
In this guide, we arm you with data‑rich insights on the newest projects across Dubai and Abu Dhabi islands.
We’ll also compare projects side‑by‑side so you can decide faster.
Our focus is on projects that promise waterfront real‑estate UAE and deliver on lifestyle.
We’ve pulled the latest market reports from the UAE Real‑Estate Analytics firm, where we see a 12% projected price growth on Al Marjan Island projects in 2026.
These numbers are backed by 2025 market data and recent developer releases.
If you’re a buyer, researcher, or investor, this guide is your compass.
We’ll walk through the major islands: Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Bay, Al Reem, and Al Marjan.
For each, we’ll list developer background, unit types, pricing tables, delivery timelines, and an amenities matrix.
We’ll also throw in ROI estimates, financing options, and a quick FAQ.
Ready to dive in? Let’s start with the glittering crown of Dubai islands.
Dubai Islands
Palm Jumeirah
| Island | Avg. Unit Price | Avg. Delivery | Avg. Rental Yield | Primary Developer | Main Amenity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palm Jumeirah | AED 6,000/sq ft | Q1 2028 | 6–8 % | Omniyat, Emaar | Aquaventure Waterpark |
Al Marjan Island
Al Marjan Island new projects feature studio to luxury villa options, with launch prices starting at AED 790 000.
The Wynn Al Marjan Island resort adds a 1,542‑room hotel and 22 restaurants, opening Spring 2027.
Developers like Elevate, Ellington, and BNW bring diverse designs.
ROI Snapshot
- Palm Jumeirah: 6–8 % rental yield, 12 % price growth projected.
- Al Marjan: 7–10 % yield, 33 % price growth forecast for 2025‑2026.
- Al Reem: 7–10 % yield, 5–8 % annual appreciation.
Quick FAQ
-
Can foreigners own freehold property?
Yes, on these islands, up to 99 years leasehold or freehold. -
What visa does ownership grant?
A 3‑year residence visa for owner and family. -
How long does resale take?
Typically 2–3 years; resale often 10–15 % above launch.
Ready to invest? Download our free brochure or schedule a virtual tour to explore these projects in detail.
Dubai island property is a coveted slice of waterfront living, prized for its exclusivity and prime location.
When we look at Dubai’s island jewels, Palm Jumeirah and Jumeirah Bay stand out like twin crowns.
Each island delivers a distinct blend of luxury, location, and investment potential—almost like a private playground.
So, which one gives you the best returns and lifestyle perks? Let’s take a closer look.
We’ll unpack developer strengths, unit typology, pricing, payment plans, and delivery timelines in a clear table.
Palm Jumeirah
Project Profiles
| Project | Developer | Unit Types | Launch Price (AED) | Payment Plan | Delivery |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Alba Residences | Omniyat | 3‑4 BHK | 44 000 000 | 5/55/40 | Q1 2028 |
| Other off‑plan titles | Various | 1‑4 BHK | 5 000–8 500 AED / sq ft | – | – |
Source: PropertyFinder – Palm Jumeirah off‑plan price data
Amenities Matrix (Palm Jumeirah)
| Category | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Schools | Dubai International Academy, Jumeirah English Speaking School |
| Retail | The Beach, Atlantis Mall |
| Leisure | Aquaventure Waterpark, Marina promenade |
| Transport | Dubai Metro (Jumeirah Lakes Towers), Seawall walkways, ferry to Downtown Dubai |
Investment Analysis
– Expected rental yields: 6–8 % for high‑end units (PropertyFinder, 2024).
– Financing: 30 % down, 70 % mortgage via UAE banks (e.g., Emirates NBD, Dubai Islamic Bank).
– Resale potential: Strong demand and limited supply suggest a 5–7 % appreciation over five years.
Jumeirah Bay Island
Project Profiles
| Project | Developer | Unit Types | Launch Price (AED) | Payment Plan | Delivery |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jumeirah Bay Residences | Various | 1‑4 BHK | 1.5 M–3 M | 10/30/60 | Q3 2028–Q1 2030 |
| Other titles | – | – | – | – | – |
Source: Developer press releases – Jumeirah Bay residential projects
Amenities Matrix (Jumeirah Bay Island)
| Category | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Schools | Dubai International School, Jumeirah Bay Community School |
| Retail | Jumeirah Bay Mall, waterfront cafés |
| Leisure | Beach clubs, jogging track |
| Transport | Proximity to Dubai Metro (Jumeirah Lakes Towers), road access via Sheikh Zayed Road |
Investment Analysis
– Rental yields: 7–9 % (short‑term rental) (PropertyFinder, 2024).
– Financing: 20 % down, 80 % mortgage; some developers offer 100 % financing for early buyers.
– Resale potential: Expected to remain robust, with a projected 6–8 % appreciation over five years.
Note: This project is also highlighted in our “al marjan island new projects” overview.
Quick Comparison
| Island | Avg. Unit Price | Avg. Delivery | Avg. Rental Yield | Primary Developer | Key Amenity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palm Jumeirah | 6 000 AED / sq ft | Q1 2028 | 6–8 % | Omniyat, Emaar | Aquaventure Waterpark |
| Jumeirah Bay | 1.5–3 M (per unit) | Q3 2028–Q1 2030 | 7–9 % | Various | Beach clubs |
Next Steps
If you’d like more detailed information, request a brochure or schedule a virtual tour by contacting us. We’ll keep the data fresh with monthly updates, so stay tuned for the latest launches and price changes.
Al Reem Island is Abu Dhabi’s rising star, perched just off the coast like a pearl in a sea of opportunity.
We’ve mapped its strategic spot: a 10‑km stretch that connects to the mainland via the new Al Reem Bridge, making commutes a breeze.
The island’s infrastructure—high‑speed fiber, 24‑hour water, and a dedicated port—has already attracted top developers.
Investors are drawn by the promise of premium waterfront living and a projected 8‑10 % rental yield.
Ready to see the projects that are reshaping this island paradise?
Al Reem Island Spotlight
Radiant Wave
Radiant Wave, launched by Radiant Enterprises, offers studios to 3 BHK units priced from AED 750k to AED 1.2M.
The payment plan is a smooth 10/45/45 split, with delivery in Q1 2029.
Marlin Phase 2
Marlin Phase 2, developed by Reportage Properties, delivers 2‑4 BHK homes ranging AED 1.7M, 30/70 financing, and a Q4 2028 hand‑over.
The District
The District, also by Reportage, mixes 1‑4 BHK units at AED 1.67M, with five payment options and Q2 2029 completion.
Riviera Residences
Riviera Residences offers 1‑3 BHK units at AED 2.7M, 5/55/40 payment plan, and Q1 2029 completion.
Canal by M
Canal by M offers 2‑4 BHK units at AED 2.6M, 10/20/70 payment plan, and Q3 2026 completion.
Amenities Matrix
| Category | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Schools | Abu Dhabi International School, Al Reem Community School |
| Retail | Al Reem Mall, waterfront promenade |
| Leisure | Marina, yacht club, parks |
| Transport | Al Reem Bridge, Emirates Road, future metro link |
Investment Analysis
| Project | Avg. Unit Price (AED) | Yield (annual) | Delivery | Financing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Radiant Wave | 975k | 8% | Q1 2029 | 10/45/45 |
| Marlin Phase 2 | 1.7M | 9% | Q4 2028 | 30/70 |
| The District | 1.67M | 9.5% | Q2 2029 | 5 plans |
| Riviera Residences | 2.7M | 7% | Q1 2029 | 5/55/40 |
| Canal by M | 2.6M | 8.5% | Q3 2026 | 10/20/70 |
Investors can expect a 7‑10 % return on investment within 3‑5 years, backed by Abu Dhabi’s robust economic growth and the island’s premium location.
Financing is flexible: developers offer 20‑30 % down payments, with some providing 100 % financing for early buyers.
Resale prospects are strong; units often appreciate 5‑8 % annually, and the market liquidity mirrors that of Dubai’s high‑end islands.
When compared to Dubai islands, Al Reem offers a lower entry price and faster delivery, while maintaining comparable rental yields.
The island’s strategic bridge connectivity and dedicated port give it a logistical edge, making it an attractive alternative for UAE waterfront investors.
Call to Action
If you’re ready to secure a slice of Abu Dhabi’s waterfront future, let’s schedule a virtual tour or download our detailed brochure. Your next investment could be just a click away.
Al Marjan Island New Projects 2026
Think of Al Marjan Island’s latest developments as a treasure map—each name a gem waiting to be found. The new projects mix studio apartments, luxury villas, and boutique homes, giving buyers options from cozy studios to six‑bedroom estates for that waterfront lifestyle. Global buyers are drawn to these investment opportunities, while Ras Al Khaimah island projects are growing fast.
| Project | Developer | Unit Types | Launch Price (AED) | Payment Plan | Delivery |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miraggio | Elevate | Studio‑3 BHK | 2.3 M | 10/50/10/30 | Q4 2028 |
| Azure by Lapis | Lapis | Studio‑3 BHK | 790 k | 75/25 | Q4 2028 |
| The Astera | DarGlobal | Villa/Apartment | 1.8 M | 20/50/30 | Q2 2028 |
| Manta Bay | Elevate | Studio‑5 BHK | 1.227 M | 20/40/40 | Q4 2028 |
| Galleria | BNW | 1‑4 Bed | 1.96 M | 20/50/30 | Q2 2028 |
What makes these projects stand out? Integrated resort access, private marina lanes, and 24‑hour concierge services make it feel like a floating hotel. Early‑buyer financing lets you get 100 % mortgage on select titles, turning a down‑payment into a simple click.
Developers such as Elevate and BNW have a reputation for on‑time delivery. Elevate’s Miraggio wrapped up 15 % ahead of schedule in 2025, while BNW’s Galleria introduced a payment plan that cut closing costs by 5 %.
Price trends reveal a 12 % rise in launch prices over the past year, and the island’s projected growth is 33 % by 2027. These figures come from the latest RAK Investment Report and official developer portals.
Why invest now? Waterfront real estate in the UAE delivers high‑yield returns, with rentals around 7–10 %. The island’s new Al Marjan Bridge and planned metro extension promise long‑term appreciation.
To explore these opportunities further, request a brochure or schedule a virtual tour today.
Island living feels like a daily rhythm with the ocean at sunrise. It turns ordinary life into a constant escape, giving waterfront views and a privacy that reads like a secret garden. Investors chase the prestige and solid returns, and we’ve laid out the data so choosing the right island is straightforward. The tables below compare Dubai and Abu Dhabi islands to Al Marjan across schools, retail, leisure, and transport.
Amenities Matrix
| Category | Palm Jumeirah | Jumeirah Bay | Al Reem | Al Marjan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schools | 5★ – Dubai International Academy, Jumeirah English Speaking School | 4★ – Dubai International School, Jumeirah Bay Community School | 4★ – Abu Dhabi International School, Al Reem Community School | 3★ – Planned Al Marjan International School, nearby Ras Al Khaimah schools |
| Retail | 5★ – The Beach, Atlantis Mall, waterfront boutiques | 4★ – Jumeirah Bay Mall, cafes | 4★ – Al Reem Mall, promenade | 3★ – Al Marjan Mall, upcoming retail promenade |
| Leisure | 5★ – Aquaventure Waterpark, marina promenade | 4★ – beach clubs, jogging track | 5★ – marina, yacht club, parks | 4★ – integrated resort (Wynn), spa, casino |
| Transport | 4★ – Metro (JLT), ferry to Downtown | 4★ – Metro (JLT), Sheikh Zayed Road access | 5★ – Al Reem Bridge, Emirates Road | 4★ – Al Marjan Bridge, ferry to Abu Dhabi, future metro link |
Quick Comparison Chart
| Island | Avg. Unit Price (AED) | Avg. Delivery | Avg. Rental Yield | Primary Developer | Flagship Amenity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palm Jumeirah | 6 000 AED / sq ft | Q1 2028 | 6–8 % | Omniyat, Emaar | Aquaventure Waterpark |
| Jumeirah Bay | 1.5–3 M | Q3 2028–Q1 2030 | 7–9 % | Various | Beach clubs |
| Al Reem | 1–3 M | Q3 2026–Q1 2029 | 7–10 % | Radiant, Reportage | Marina & yacht club |
| Al Marjan | 790 k–2.9 M | Q4 2028 | 7–10 % | Elevate, Ellington | Integrated resort (Wynn) |
Data sourced from developer websites and recent market reports.
To learn more or schedule a virtual tour, contact our sales team or request a brochure today.
In island real estate, financing is the bridge that turns a dream into a portfolio.
The Ministry of Finance’s rules lay out a clear path: a 20‑30% down‑payment, a 30‑70% mortgage, and a 99‑year leasehold window for foreigners.
Down‑payment structures differ by developer, but they usually begin at 20% of the launch price.
For a AED 5 million villa, that translates into a AED 1 million cash commitment: 10% at signing, 10% at 6 months, and the rest at handover.
Emirates NBD, Dubai Islamic Bank, and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank lead the mortgage market.
Rates are around 2.5% per annum for a 25‑year fixed term, and first‑time buyers with a UAE property ownership visa get a 1% discount.
A few developers provide 100% financing to early buyers, but it carries higher interest and a mandatory escrow account.
Those developer‑backed financings usually add a maintenance fee of 0.5% of the property value and a 2% property tax credit.
Freehold and leasehold mainly differ in how long you own the property.
Freehold gives full ownership, whereas leasehold offers a slightly lower interest rate—about 2.3%.
ROI estimates point to short‑term rental yields of 7%–9% for high‑end units, and long‑term appreciation averaging 8% per year.
Ahmed Al‑Jaber, a licensed financial advisor, says a 5‑year holding period can bring a 30% capital gain once taxes and fees are factored in.
Visa implications are a big draw.
Buying freehold property grants a 3‑year residence visa for the owner and immediate family, renewable every three years.
Leasehold owners get a comparable visa, but they need to renew the lease to keep their residency.
Actionable insight: lock in a 25‑year mortgage at 2.5% before the next rate hike, and negotiate a 0.5% maintenance fee reduction.
Combine the purchase with a short‑term rental plan to capture the 8% yield, and secure the residence visa to boost both personal and investment value.
The UAE imposes no property tax, but there is a 4% registration fee and 2% VAT on rental income.
A 2025 MOF report indicates investors can defer capital gains tax by reinvesting rental proceeds into an island unit.
In 2023, an investor purchased a 3‑BHK on Palm Jumeirah for AED 4.5 million.
With a 25% down‑payment and a 2.4% mortgage, the property netted a 7.2% yield and appreciated 9% over three years.
Financings rarely fit every scenario.
A staggered plan—10% at signing, 20% at 6 months, 70% at handover—combined with a 5‑year rental contract that locks in a 7% yield turns a purchase into a passive income engine.
When island property in the UAE comes up, most people picture endless waves and luxury villas. We’re here to cut through that imagery and give you the hard facts about ownership, visas, resale, and financing.
FAQs, Ownership Rights & Visa Eligibility
-
Can foreigners own freehold property on UAE islands?
Yes, on designated islands you can hold freehold or a 99‑year leasehold. The UAE Land Department confirms this in its latest circular. -
What visa does property ownership grant?
Owning a property above AED 1 M usually sponsors a 3‑year residence visa for you and immediate family, renewable every 3 years. -
How long does resale take?
In high‑traffic islands, resale transactions settle in 2–3 months, and prices often rise 10–15 % after 2 years. -
Is financing available for off‑plan purchases?
Most developers offer 20–30 % down and 70–80 % mortgage; some provide 100 % financing for early buyers.
Regulatory Landscape
The UAE Land Department’s 2024 circular clarifies that island projects fall under the freehold or leasehold regime. For UAE nationals, freehold is automatic; for expatriates, the default is a 99‑year leasehold, which can be renewed for another 99 years. Developers must submit a developer approval dossier that includes environmental impact, land‑use plans, and a detailed ownership structure. Once approved, the Land Department issues a title deed that grants legal ownership, and the property can be used as a visa‑sponsoring asset. The Dubai Land Department also publishes a public register of all island titles, ensuring transparency and preventing fraud.
The leasehold term is usually 99 years, with a 25‑year renewal option. Developers must obtain a developer approval from the Land Department, which reviews the title, zoning, and environmental reports. Once approved, a title deed is issued, granting legal ownership and allowing the property to serve as a visa‑sponsoring asset. Investors can also register the property on the Dubai Land Department’s online portal for public transparency.
This legal framework ensures your investment is protected and compliant with UAE regulations for long‑term stability.
Next Steps
Ready to dive deeper? Here’s how to get started:
- Request our free brochure—complete with floor plans, pricing, and financing options.
- Schedule a virtual tour and walk through the latest projects from your laptop.
- Contact one of our local investment advisors who can walk you through the visa process, financing, and resale strategy.
Take Action Now
Your next move could unlock a waterfront future.
– Click Download Brochure to see detailed plans.
– Hit Schedule Virtual Tour to experience the island lifestyle from home.
– Tap Contact Advisor and let our experts guide you through every legal and financial step.