Dubai Islands has emerged as one of Dubai’s most closely watched waterfront destinations for off-plan property investment. With beachfront residences, branded developments, marina-facing apartments and luxury villas, the area is attracting both end users and investors looking for long-term opportunities.
As of 2026, property portals list more than 100 new and off-plan projects across Dubai Islands, highlighting the scale of development underway.
From Nakheel’s established waterfront communities to newer projects by Ellington, Imtiaz, Prestige One and other developers, buyers have a wide range of options. Here are some of the top off-plan projects in Dubai Islands to consider in 2026.
Why Invest in Dubai Islands?
Dubai Islands combines waterfront living with relatively easy access to central Dubai. The development is connected to the mainland through the Infinity Bridge, providing access towards Deira, Downtown Dubai and Dubai International Airport.
The area is also being developed as a mixed-use destination featuring residential communities, hotels, retail, leisure attractions and beaches.
According to recent market listings, entry prices for off-plan apartments can start from around AED 1 million, while premium beachfront and branded residences can reach several million dirhams.
This wide price range makes Dubai Islands suitable for different investment strategies, from relatively accessible apartments to luxury waterfront homes.
1. Bay Grove Residences
Developer: Nakheel
Property type: Apartments
Positioning: Waterfront community
Bay Grove Residences is one of Nakheel’s key residential developments in Dubai Islands. The project focuses on waterfront living, with contemporary apartments and views designed around the island environment.
Recent listings show launch pricing for newer phases from approximately AED 1.9 million, with some phases targeting handover in 2028.
The development can appeal to buyers looking for a combination of a recognised developer, waterfront location and long-term potential.
2. Rixos Dubai Islands Hotel & Residences
Developer: Nakheel
Brand: Rixos
Property type: Branded residences
Rixos Dubai Islands Hotel & Residences is among the area’s most prominent branded residential projects. It combines residential ownership with a resort-style environment and Rixos hospitality branding.
The development includes apartments as well as larger residences, while newer associated offerings such as Beach Residences Dubai Islands have been marketed from around AED 2.6 million.
For investors, the branded-residence concept can provide a stronger lifestyle proposition and potentially broader appeal among premium tenants and holiday-home users.
3. Bay Villas
For buyers who prefer space and privacy over high-rise apartment living, Bay Villas is an important project to consider.
The development focuses on low-density villa living within Dubai Islands. It is particularly relevant for families seeking larger homes close to the waterfront.
Bay Villas is currently listed among Dubai Islands’ active off-plan projects, alongside apartment developments from Nakheel and other major developers.
4. The Meriva Collection
Developer: Ellington Properties
Property type: Premium residences
Ellington Properties has expanded its presence in Dubai Islands with The Meriva Collection and other island developments.
The project is positioned towards buyers seeking design-led waterfront living. Current listings show multiple phases and configurations, with some deliveries extending into the later part of the decade.
Its positioning makes it worth considering for investors prioritising premium design, amenities and a longer investment horizon.
5. Ellington Sands
Another notable Ellington development is Ellington Sands. The project offers a beachfront-oriented residential concept with apartments designed around coastal living.
Current market listings show starting prices from approximately AED 1.7 million for some phases, with handovers extending into 2028.
The combination of a recognised developer and waterfront location makes it a potential option for buyers seeking a balance between luxury and investment value.
6. Beach Walk Residences
Developer: Imtiaz Developments
Property type: Beachfront apartments
Beach Walk Residences is designed around direct access to the coastal lifestyle of Dubai Islands.
The project has been marketed with apartments starting from approximately AED 2.2 million, although prices and availability can change depending on unit size, floor, view and sales phase.
It may appeal particularly to end users and investors who prioritise beachfront positioning and rental demand.
7. Coastal Haven
Developer: Prestige One Developments
Property type: Waterfront apartments
Coastal Haven is another premium Dubai Islands development targeting buyers interested in modern waterfront residences.
Current listings indicate starting prices around AED 2.6 million and a projected handover in 2028.
Because it is positioned at the higher end of the market, buyers should assess the payment schedule, service charges, unit layouts and expected rental demand before committing.
8. Ocean Pearl
Ocean Pearl is one of the newer residential options appearing in Dubai Islands’ off-plan market. It is part of a growing selection of developments aimed at buyers looking for waterfront homes with relatively flexible entry points.
Current project data shows Ocean Pearl among developments progressing towards handover in 2026, although buyers should confirm the latest construction status and available units directly before purchasing.
9. Wellington Ocean
Developer: ANK Developer
Property type: Apartments
Wellington Ocean offers another option for buyers looking for a Dubai Islands property without moving entirely into the ultra-luxury segment.
Current listings place launch pricing around AED 1.65 million, with completion projected for 2027.
The project may suit investors seeking a lower entry point into the island’s developing waterfront market.
10. Azizi Wasel
Azizi Wasel provides another entry-level option within the growing Dubai Islands pipeline. Current project listings show starting prices from approximately AED 1.69 million, with handover targeted for 2028.
For investors, the key consideration will be whether the purchase price, payment plan and expected rental income provide sufficient value compared with competing developments nearby.
What Should Buyers Check Before Investing?
Choosing the best off-plan project is about more than comparing launch prices. Buyers should evaluate several factors before signing a sales agreement.
Developer reputation: Research the developer’s previous projects, delivery history and construction record.
Payment plan: Compare the initial deposit, construction instalments and final handover payment. A lower entry price does not necessarily mean a better investment.
Handover date: Projects completing sooner may suit buyers seeking rental income earlier, while longer timelines can provide more flexibility for capital appreciation.
Location within Dubai Islands: Waterfront access, beach proximity, marina views and connectivity can influence both resale and rental demand.
Service charges: Luxury amenities can increase ongoing ownership costs. Estimate these expenses alongside mortgage or payment-plan commitments.
Rental potential: Compare expected rents with similar completed properties rather than relying only on developer projections.
Is Dubai Islands a Good Off-Plan Investment in 2026?
Dubai Islands offers several characteristics that make it an interesting off-plan market: waterfront positioning, large-scale master planning, expanding residential supply and a broad range of price points.
However, not every project will deliver the same investment performance. Current listings show a significant range in prices, handover dates and property types across the community.
Investors should therefore compare projects based on developer track record, location, payment structure, construction progress, service charges and realistic rental demand.
Final Thoughts
The top off-plan projects in Dubai Islands in 2026 range from branded developments such as Rixos Dubai Islands Hotel & Residences to waterfront communities including Bay Grove Residences, Ellington Sands, Beach Walk Residences and Coastal Haven.
Dubai Islands is still developing, which creates both opportunity and risk. Buyers who research the individual project, understand the payment plan and compare expected returns against competing Dubai communities can make a more informed investment decision.
Property prices, payment plans and handover dates can change. Buyers should verify the latest information with the developer or Dubai Land Department before making a purchase.
Read More
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