Dubai’s Private Islands: Top Islands, Costs & Luxury Living

Overview of Dubai’s private island market

Dubai’s private islands form a distinct sub-market within the city’s luxury real estate landscape. These developments appeal to buyers seeking space, seclusion and waterfront living without sacrificing proximity to the mainland.

Recent market commentary has highlighted a growing preference among high-net-worth residents for resort-style environments outside traditional urban centres. Dubai’s private islands respond directly to this demand, offering controlled access, curated amenities and highly personalised residential environments.

Beyond lifestyle appeal, these islands represent a strategic real estate opportunity. Limited land availability and high development barriers create inherent scarcity, supporting long-term value preservation and investment stability.

Types of private islands in Dubai

Private islands in Dubai are not all positioned in the same way. Broadly, they fall into three categories:

• Fully residential islands featuring low-density villa communities and bespoke developments by established developers

• Commercial-focused islands hosting hotels, restaurants, retail promenades and leisure attractions

• Mixed-use islands combining residential, hospitality and entertainment elements within a single masterplan

Understanding the positioning of each island is essential when assessing suitability for end-use or investment.

The World Islands Dubai: the centre of private island living

One of Dubai’s most ambitious developments, The World Islands, was originally launched by Nakheel as a collection of man-made islands shaped like a world map.

While the project faced early delays, selected islands have since been reactivated and redeveloped. The most prominent revival has come through The Heart of Europe by Kleindienst Group, launched in 2014.

Today, The World Islands are evolving into a curated mix of themed residential enclaves, luxury private island resorts and lifestyle destinations rather than a single community. Development continues on a phased basis, with select islands already operational and others progressing toward completion in the coming years.

Most popular private islands in Dubai (2026)

Jumeirah Bay Island

Jumeirah Bay Island is one of Dubai’s most exclusive residential addresses. Connected to the mainland via a private bridge, the island offers ultra-low-density beachfront living minutes from Downtown Dubai.

Home to the Bulgari Resort & Residences, Jumeirah Bay Island features private villas, a marina and curated lifestyle amenities, attracting ultra-high-net-worth buyers prioritising privacy, prestige and long-term value.

Amali Island

Amali Island represents a new benchmark for ultra-prime residential living in Dubai. Developed as a highly exclusive, invitation-only community, Amali Island is limited to a small number of waterfront mansions designed for absolute privacy.

Located within the World Islands archipelago, the development focuses on architectural excellence, expansive plots and direct sea access. With no commercial elements and extremely limited supply, Amali Island appeals to UHNW buyers seeking a pure residential retreat rather than a lifestyle destination.

Zuha Island

Zuha Island is a refined private island development positioned within The World Islands, offering a discreet collection of luxury villas and boutique residences.

Designed with an emphasis on wellness, sustainability and low-density living, Zuha Island combines contemporary architecture with natural landscaping and direct beachfront access. The island’s limited scale and residential-only focus make it attractive to buyers prioritising tranquillity, design integrity and long-term value protection.

Dubai Islands

Formerly known as Deira Islands, Dubai Islands comprise a large-scale archipelago currently under phased development. Once complete, the masterplan is expected to include residential communities, resorts, retail districts and leisure attractions.

Compared to other private island locations, Dubai Islands offer a broader range of entry points, including off-plan apartments and waterfront residences, making them relatively more accessible within the private island segment.

Cost of private island properties in Dubai

While it is generally not possible to purchase an entire island, buyers can acquire residential units or land plots within designated developments.

Property pricing varies significantly based on location, developer, scale and specification. As a general guide:

• Off-plan apartments on Dubai Islands may start from around AED 1.5 million

• Villas on Jumeirah Bay Island typically begin from AED 25 million

• Ultra-prime mansions on select World Islands developments, such as Amali Island, can exceed AED 100 million

These figures reflect indicative ranges rather than fixed pricing and are subject to market conditions and project-specific factors.

Buying a luxury private island property: what to expect

Purchasing property on one of Dubai’s private islands comes with distinct considerations:

• Maintenance costs: Service charges and maintenance fees are typically higher due to bespoke infrastructure and premium facilities

• Privacy and security: Access is controlled, ensuring exclusivity for residents and guests

• Community profile: Ownership is often concentrated among ultra-high-net-worth individuals, creating discreet, like-minded residential environments

• Architecture and design: Developments emphasise bespoke layouts, high-quality finishes and internationally recognised design partners

Investment potential of Dubai’s private islands

Private island properties appeal not only as lifestyle assets but also as long-term investments. Performance depends on factors such as:

• Location and accessibility

• Developer reputation and delivery track record

• Supply constraints and market demand

• Property type, size and specification

Indicative market observations include:

• Properties on Dubai Islands are expected to achieve 7-9% gross rental yields once complete

• Jumeirah Bay Island consistently has one of the highest prices per square foot of any Dubai community. It has recorded many of Dubai's most expensive house sales, including a AED 410 million penthouse and AED 330 million villa

• Ultra-prime developments such as Amali Island and Zuha Island benefiting from extreme supply constraints, supporting long-term capital preservation rather than yield-led strategies

As with all real estate investments, outcomes vary by asset and timing.

Work with Dubai’s luxury property experts

Navigating Dubai’s private island market requires specialist insight, access to discreet listings and an understanding of ultra-prime buyer dynamics. Working with Engel & Völkers provides clients with structured guidance, off-market opportunities and expert negotiation support.

With decades of experience across global luxury markets, Engel & Völkers advises buyers and investors seeking exceptional properties in Dubai’s most exclusive locations.