Unfolding the Future: Top Upcoming Mega Projects in Dubai

The UAE is globally recognized for its ambitious megaprojects in myriad sectors, from real estate to transportation. As the region continues to position itself as a hub for innovation, commerce, and tourism, these ventures play a pivotal role in facilitating sustainable growth and enhancing the country's competitiveness on the world stage. Find out the top developments, particularly Dubai's upcoming projects — to be launched in 2024 or under construction.

New Projects in Dubai Real Estate

Looking for real estate investment opportunities in the city? Here are the top new projects in Dubai for sale, recently launched in Dubai hinting at high returns.

Mercedes-Benz Places

Mercedes-Benz Places is our first entree on the list of upcoming apartment projects in Dubai. Launched in January 2024, the branded residence will offer a plethora of choices to residents, ranging from 2- to 4-bedroom apartments to duplexes and penthouses at a starting price of AED 8.8M.

Nestled amidst Dubai's most iconic landmarks, Mercedes-Benz Places provides breathtaking vistas of the world's tallest tower, Burj Khalifa. AI-integrated systems and intelligent smart-home mobility solutions seamlessly merge in the design of the development to enhance convenience for residents. The project by Mercedes-Benz and Binghatti, Mercedes-Benz Places offers elegance and sophistication.

• Completion Date: 2026
• Area: Downtown Dubai
• Developer: Binghatti

Franck Muller Aeternitas Tower

One of the top upcoming apartment projects in Dubai, the Franck Muller Aeternitas Tower, is all set to be the tallest residential clock tower in the world. Renowned Swiss luxury watchmaker Franck Muller has partnered with the London Gate real estate developer to adorn Dubai's skyline with another remarkable addition. Launched in 2024, the tower will be four times the height of Big Ben in London.

The starting price of the super-luxury branded apartments in the tower is AED 1.6M. It houses 649 luxurious units, ranging from one- to three-bedroom apartments. It also offers mansions and duplexes. Each residence is designed to provide hotel-like amenities, including valet parking, concierge, and housekeeping services.

• Completion Date: 2027
• Area: Dubai Marina
• Developer: London Gate

Address Residences Zabeel

Located in the bustling Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Address Residences Zabeel is one of the Dubai upcoming projects that comprises four towers featuring contemporary design infused with the signature Address style. In one of the Emaar upcoming projects in Dubai, each unit provides captivating vistas showcasing Dubai's stunning beauty, from the iconic Burj Khalifa to the tranquil sunrise over the Zabeel district.

This upcoming apartment project in Dubai offers a variety of 1 to 3-bedroom apartments and exclusive penthouses in this prestigious residence, starting from a minimum of AED 1.8M. Residents can enjoy access to the Central Vista and Zabeel Pools for relaxation and a modern gym on the podium level. Moreover, an inviting retail precinct featuring cafes and shops ensures convenience and luxury.

• Completion Date: 2029
• Area: DIFC
• Developer: Emaar Properties

Utopia by DAMAC

Damac Utopia Urban Resort Villas epitomizes luxurious living, where the fusion of opulence and nature harmonizes flawlessly. Inspired by resort aesthetics, one of the top upcoming villa projects in Dubai provides a sumptuous sanctuary that effortlessly combines the refinement of upscale resorts with the serenity of a green community.

Experience a transcendent lifestyle at Utopia by DAMAC, where 27 contemporary villas redefine the essence of luxury living. With three distinct villa typologies, Damac Utopia offers a variety of spacious en suite bedrooms ranging from 5 to 7. Each villa features expansive pavilions, verdant gardens, and tranquil water elements, crafting a retreat that delivers a resort-like ambiance within the comforts of home.

• Completion Date: 2026
• Area: DAMAC Hills
• Developer: DAMAC

Soon-To-Be-Completed Projects in Dubai and Abu Dhabi 

Check out the under-construction projects in Dubai and Abu Dhabi that are expected to be completed soon.

Dubai Creek Tower

One of the Dubai upcoming projects, the Dubai Creek Tower, is situated in the vibrant Dubai Creek Harbour. It represents a bold new chapter in Dubai's architectural journey, symbolizing the city's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of possibility and reimagining the urban landscape for generations to come.

The original plan for this project was to create a building that would surpass the iconic Burj Khalifa as the tallest in Dubai. However, the developers have since altered their plans and have positioned the new tower as a "female" counterpart to Burj Khalifa, referring to it as the "Female Burj Khalifa". Moreover, a state-of-the-art mall will also be constructed inside the Dubai Creek Tower, which is expected to further enhance the appeal of the development.

• Completion Date: 2025
• Project Type: Observation tower

Dubai Wasl Tower

One of the upcoming hotel projects in Dubai, the Dubai Wasl Tower has garnered significant attention for its distinctive architecture, contributing to the Dubai skyline's impressive height of 302 meters. Its sustainable design incorporates shading and cooling techniques to adapt to the warm desert climate. With this stunning addition, we anticipate an even more remarkable skyline for Dubai in the future.

Located in a prime location, Wasl Tower will feature one of the world's tallest ceramic façades and will span 63 floors, comprising, 185,345 square feet of office space, 229 residential units, 258 hotel rooms, and 11 parking floors.

• Completion Date: Q3 2024
• Project Type: Hotel

Hala Madrid - Dubai Parks and Resorts

Real Madrid, the reigning European Champions, has partnered with Dubai Parks and Resorts to introduce a theme park. Hala Madrid features interactive experiences, audio-visual displays, and many attractions, Hala Madrid! will allow visitors to explore a museum, engage in football skill games, and enjoy various dining options, rides, and more.

The final touches are being put on the designs, which are scheduled to open in Q4 2023. The establishment will encompass a variety of attractions inspired by Real Madrid, including a museum, rides, football skill challenges, dining venues, and distinctive retail outlets showcasing memorabilia from the club's storied history. This groundbreaking football-themed entertainment complex in Dubai will showcase the illustrious history of the iconic Spanish club.

• Completion Date: Q3 2024
• Project Type: Theme Park

Expo City Mall

Another noteworthy addition to Dubai upcoming projects is the Expo City Mall. Nestled within Dubai Expo City, it is all set to become a premier destination for dining, shopping, and entertainment, boasting over 190 stores and an array of F&B outlets.

The Dubai Expo Mall, a prominent retail destination within the Expo 2020 site, is set to feature an impressive lineup of anchor stores, catering to visitors' diverse needs and preferences. Among the esteemed anchor stores slated to be part of this exciting shopping experience are Harvey Nichols, Marks & Spencer, and Zara.

• Completion Date: 2024
• Project Type: Shopping Mall

Surf Abu Dhabi

The upcoming artificial wave park on Hudayriyat Island in Abu Dhabi, known as Surf Abu Dhabi, is anticipated to be the largest and most advanced facility globally. Scheduled to open in early 2024, it will be part of the broader Modon masterplan, which is to add 53.5 kilometers of coastline to the capital and 16 kilometers of beaches.

This masterplan includes Surf Abu Dhabi and the largest urban park in Abu Dhabi, offering a green recreational space for residents and visitors alike. Surf Abu Dhabi is expected to set several records within the artificial surfing realm. Its notable features are projected to be the longest ride and the largest barrel in artificial surfing history. The facility will also have the world's largest man-made wave pool.

• Completion Date: 2024
• Project Type: Leisure Attraction

Ongoing Transportation Projects in Dubai

These ongoing transportation projects in Dubai reflect the government's commitment to sustainable urban development and its vision of becoming a global leader in smart transportation solutions.

Dubai Metro Blue Line

On Feb 18, 2024, the Roads and Transport Authority announced that construction on the Dubai Metro Blue Line will commence this year. Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General of the RTA, stated, "This year marks the commencement of the Dubai Metro Blue Line project implementation." Pioneering a transformation in the city's northeast, the AED 18 billion endeavor will include 14 stations and extend the Metro network by 30km, with over half of it underground. The project is slated for completion in 2029, aligning with the Dubai Metro's 20th anniversary.

Etihad Rail

Etihad Rail is set to revolutionize inter-emirate travel with its high-speed train network. On January 25, 2024, Etihad Rail conducted its inaugural freight journey for ADNOC employees, linking the cities of Abu Dhabi and Al Dhannah.

Note that the construction of the Etihad Rail passenger train is divided into two stages. 
Stage One was finalized in 2016, and over 70% of the construction for Stage Two has already been completed. Initially, the Etihad Rail passenger service will be reserved exclusively for ADNOC's employees and contractors. However, the UAE national rail network is slated to open to passengers from across the GCC region eventually.

Flying Taxis

Dubai aims to introduce air taxis within the city in the next two years.  As per the terms of the agreement, the authority will oversee the air mobility services, one of Dubai's future projects, while Joby Aviation will hold the exclusive rights to operate air taxis in Dubai for six years.

In collaboration with UK-based Skyports Infrastructure and all-electric aircraft company Joby Aviation, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has inked an agreement to launch passenger air taxi services in the Emirates by 2026. Skyports has been granted exclusive rights to design, construct, and manage a network of vertiports, serving as launch and landing areas for the air taxis.

Hyperloop Dubai

Hyperloop Dubai is a billion-dollar project anticipated to debut between 2027 and 2028. Envisioned to link prominent destinations like Dubai International Airport, Downtown Dubai, and other pivotal areas, the Hyperloop system aims to revolutionize transportation by offering a swifter and more efficient mode.

The capsules will operate autonomously, with minimal human intervention. The innovative transportation system will also connect Dubai and Abu Dhabi, enabling travel between the two Emirates in 12 minutes.

Other Underdevelopment Mega Projects in Dubai

Marsa Al Arab

The unveiling of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is anticipated to occur in 2024, with no definitive date announced for the hotel's opening yet. Featuring 303 rooms overlooking the sea and 84 luxurious suites, all equipped with balconies, the resort promises a lavish experience for its guests. his establishment will form a cohesive trio of oceanic-themed structures alongside the undulating Jumeirah Beach Hotel and the iconic sail-shaped Burj Al Arab. A deluxe yacht club will complement five pools, two private beaches, a marina boasting 82 berths, and nine opulent oceanfront villas.

Palm Jebel Ali

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, announced a revised master plan for Palm Jebel Ali in 2023. An expansive project twice the size of Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali will encompass 80 hotels and resorts, as well as verdant spaces and a myriad of recreational and retail amenities sprawled across 13.4 square kilometers. New additions within the development will include enclosed beachfront areas, cafes, promenades, and dining venues.

The World Islands

The progress on the ambitious World Islands venture will continue in 2024. The developer, Nakheel Properties aims to complete the long-awaited $5 billion luxury project, Heart of Europe by 2026. Encompassing 16 hotels and luxurious "palaces" offering exclusive beachfront access, it is set to redefine opulent island living. The megaproject across various islands includes The Island Beach Club and the Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort.

Dubai Islands

Previously referred to as Deira Islands, Dubai Islands comprises five islands spanning 17 square kilometers, boasting over 60 kilometers of waterfront. Each island will feature distinctive attractions, including cultural hubs, recreational beaches, beach clubs, and a golfing enclave.

Several properties have commenced operations, including the family-oriented Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai, featuring a dedicated waterpark for children. You can hop on a boat from the mainland to Souk Al Marfa, a wholesale market boasting over 400 shops and kiosks offering a wide array of products, from artisanal items to classic street food, to learn about the retail offerings of the island.