Top 10 Property Developers In The UAE (2024)

Are you thinking about investing in the UAE real estate market? Well, that’s a wise decision. But before you make a move, choosing the right developer is essential. In this blog, we will discuss the top 10 real estate property developers in the UAE and highlight some of their coolest projects to help you decide on a developer that suits your needs.

Emaar Properties

The number 1 on our list is Emaar Properties, established in 1997. They are renowned for iconic projects like the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai. Every community developed by Emaar boasts a cohesive architectural theme that sets them apart at first glance. They are the master developer behind several of Dubai’s most popular neighbourhoods, like:

• Dubai Hills Estate
• The Meadows
• The Greens
• The Lakes
• Arabian Ranches
• Dubai Marina

Upcoming Projects

Some of the much anticipated upcoming projects of Emaar Properties are:

Emaar South: features townhouses, 7 minutes aways from Al Maktoum Airport

The Oasis: features ultra-luxury villas, 5 minutes from AlMaktoum Airport

Address Al Marjan: branded apartments, townhouses and sea villas in Ras Al Khaimah

Mangrove at Dubai Creek Harbour: 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartments adjacent to a park

Emmar has a proven track record of delivering iconic projects that investors trust.

Nakheel

Nakheel stands as a prominent name in the UAE's real estate market, with a reputation for market-leading developments and several iconic properties and structures in the UAE. Established in 2003, Nakheel has consistently delivered exceptional residential, commercial, and retail developments. You can find Nakheel projects in some of the prime locations across Dubai like:

• Jumeirah Village Circle
• Palm Jumeirah
• Jumeirah Islands
• Jebel Ali

Notable Projects

Some of the notable projects by Nakheel are:

• Palm Jumeirah
• Palm Jebel Ali
• Dubai Islands
• The World
• Nakheel Mall
• Ibn Battuta Mall

Developments like Greenwood, Como Residences, Palm Beach Towers & Rixos Hotels & Residences, and Dubai Islands are among its new launches.

Meraas

A subsidiary of Dubai Holding and established in 2007, Meraas quickly became known for urban development. The company's commitment to excellence is evident in its diverse residential, commercial, and hospitality development portfolio, such as:

• City Walk Residences
• Bluewaters Residences
• Bvlgari Residences
• Port de La Mer
• Jumeirah Bay
• La Mer Maisons

Meraas is dedicated to building top-quality real estate projects and master developments. They aim to make Dubai the preferred choice for international real estate investment.

Damac

Damac Properties is a leading real estate development company known for its luxurious and innovative projects. The company was established in 2002 with a mission to create stunning projects that change Dubai's skyline and set new standards for luxury living. Their portfolio includes high-end residential, commercial, and leisure developments, such as:

• Damac Heights
• Damac Hills 1
• Damac Hills 2
• Damac Towers

Damac Hills 2 has emerged as a community with one of the highest transactions in the UAE. The most recent project by Damac is the Damac Lagoon Viwes, which sold out like hotcakes.

Awards

Damac has some impressive awards for its name.

• Best Luxury High-Rise Living for Cavalli Casa Tower
• Most Innovative Residential Community Developers
• Developer of the Year Award at the 18th Global RLI Awards
• Leading Real Estate Developer of Luxury Properties in UAE
• Highly Commended for Excellence in FM Health & Safety

Aldar

Aldar Properties, founded in 2004, is Abu Dhabi's leading real estate developer. They focus on two main areas: building new developments (Aldar Development) and managing investments (Aldar Investment). Aldar Development has built well-designed, livable, and vibrant communities in the most sought-after areas of Abu Dhabi, like:

• Yas Island

• Saadiyat Island

• Al Raha

• Reem Island

Aldar has recently teamed up with Dubai Holding to speed up its growth plans in property development and investment. The plan is to launch three community projects. The first was inaugurated in October 2023: 'Haven', a premier residential neighbourhood centred on wellness and nature.

Sobha Realty

Sobha Realty is a renowned developer who has created an amazing collection of luxury properties. The multinational corporation, which has offices in Oman, Bahrain, Brunei, and India, was founded in 1976 by Indian entrepreneur PNC Menon. The developer is known for its master community, Sobha Hartland, which boasts the world's largest man-made crystal lagoon, a stunning variety of apartment complexes, and luxury villas. Due to the huge success of this master community, Sobha has recently launched its sequel, Sobha Hartland 2, along with other new projects: Sobha Hartland Estates, Sobha Seahaven, and Verde, amongst others.

Newly Launched Projects

Following are the newly launched residential projects by Sobha Realty worth considering:

Sobha Reserve: 4,5,6 4 bedroom villas at Wadi Al Safa 2, Dubai

Sobha One: 1,2,3,4 bedroom apartments at Ral Al Khor, Dubai

Verde By Sobha: 1,2,3 bedroom apartments at Jumeirah Lake Towers, Dubai

Sobha Seaheaven: 1,2,3,4 bedroom apartments at Dubai Harbour

Omniyat

Founded in 2005, Omniyat aims for excellence in all areas, setting new standards for luxury living. They see art as the highest form of creativity and quality and combine location, purpose, design, innovation, and sustainability to create luxurious spaces. Omniyat uses advanced technologies, innovative design ideas, and sustainable practices in their projects.

Omniyat targets the world's most selective buyers by working with famous talents like Zaha Hadid and Norman Foster. These partnerships, including ones with top hospitality names like the Dorchester Collection, show Omniyat's dedication to excellence. They recently launched a new project in Dubai called ORLA Infinity, Dorchester Collection. This project is located in the beautiful waterfront area of Palm Jumeirah and offers resort-style living. Their portfolio includes:

• Ava at Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection
• Orla Infinity, Dorchester Collection
• Vela, Dorchester Collection
• Vela Viento, Dorchester Collection

Select Group

Select Group is a top real estate developer known for creating luxury properties in ideal spots. They handle a wide range of projects, such as residential, hotel, shop, and office projects, in the UAE, Europe, and the UK. Select Group has unveiled its latest residential project, Nautica, in Dubai Maritime City – the emerging waterfront hub. The development includes two identical towers, Nautica One and Nautica Two, with construction expected to be completed by Q4, 2026.

Select Group emphasises sustainable practices in their projects and includes energy-saving features and green areas to ensure their buildings are modern and good for the environment. Their strong portfolio features projects like:

• Six Senses Residences, Dubai Marina
• Jumeirah Living, Business Bay

Deyaar

Deyaar is a big name in real estate. Since 2002, they have been building and selling residential and commercial properties. They create spaces where people can make special memories. Dubai Islamic Bank owns most of Deyaar, which helps it stay strong in the real estate market. They are known for their quality buildings in the UAE. Deyaar has recently launched new buildings called Talia and Amalia in Al Furjan and signature residences Jannat Midtown in Dubai Production City. Other ongoing projects are:

• ELEVE, Jebel Ali
• Rosalia Residences, Al Furjan

Ellington

Ellington Properties started in 2014 and is known for luxurious, innovative, and customer-focused developments in the UAE. They are committed to great architecture, sustainability, and community living. Ellington offers a variety of homes, from modern styles to timeless designs, catering to different tastes. Their buildings are in prime locations with easy access to cultural, recreational, and commercial areas. Whether in the city or quieter areas, Ellington creates neighbourhoods where people feel connected and share experiences. They have partnered with Dutco, a major company since 1947, to launch a new luxury project called 'One River Point' in Business Bay. Some of the notable projects by Ellington are:

• Rosemont Residences, Jumeirah Village Triangle
• Mercer House, Jumeirah Lakes Towers
• Cala del Mar, Ras Al Khaimah
• Claydon House, Nad Al Sheba 1

These 10 real estate developers in the UAE have been playing an important part in changing how properties look in the country. Their work has created famous buildings and helped the UAE's economy grow. As the UAE keeps getting more known worldwide, these developers will keep making a big impact, showing how to improve real estate and planning for a good future.