UAE: The most coveted luxury homes in Dubai, Abu Dhabi in 2025

19/04/2025 03:39 AST

The UAE has become one of the world's most sought-after luxury property destinations for the world's millionaires. KT LUXE sat down with specialist investor Idan Doodman to get insights on what's catching the attention of the rich and famous, and his tips on where those who are in the know are buying next.

"Most of these are being bought by savvy investors, who will in a few years flip them," said Doodman, who works independently with high-net-worth investors both from inside and outside the UAE." There are some amazing developments coming up that are already getting a lot of attention, things we know will have a high return on investment (ROI).

"In the global property market, Dubai has one of the highest ROIs. So, it continues to be a destination for investment for many nationalities who have money to invest."

Doodman says that the 2025 market prioritises exclusive communities, personalised, bespoke luxury, and networking-friendly environments over ostentatious wealth.

"Prime addresses now incorporate a concept known to designers as 'collision spaces', carefully curated areas fostering organic connections among business leaders, creatives, and investors," Doodman explained.

"But ultimately, Dubai remains a magnet for entrepreneurial wealth, while Abu Dhabi appeals to cultural elites seeking prestige and artistic integration into areas such as Saadiyat Island, which has become a huge draw as a cultural centre," he added.

Existing developments

One & Only One Za'abeel Private Homes (Dh15-60m)
This development was officially launched as a ready-to-move-in property in February 2024. The location (near DIFC) and developer are premium, and the highlight is the Japanese architectural firm Nikken Sekkei, which has raised design to another level. This combined use of commercial and residential space is unique. The building has stunning leisure facilities, and the prices can go up to as much as Dh60 million for the penthouse. Another interesting titbit about these buildings is - landlords and investors had the opportunity to buy off plan and those who chose to earned about 100 per cent or even more ROI on it. For someone buying off plan four years ago, the ROI is one of the highest in Dubai, close to Atlantis The Royal Residences, making it a very sought-after address. The development boasts 94 homes, private elevators, 4.5m ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows. Residents enjoy the One&Only resort amenities, including The Link, a sky-high Michelin-starred dining and infinity pool experience.

Off-plan developments

Six Senses Residences
Dubai Marina
(Dh8-40m |Q4 2028)

Reaching 122 floors, Six Senses Residences Dubai Marina takes the crown as the world's tallest residential-only tower. The concept centres on wellness. It's a luxury wellness sanctuary blending biophilic design, air purification, and holistic health programmes. Designed for high-net-worth individuals and wellness entrepreneurs, it offers state-of-the-art amenities, spa retreats, and curated health experiences, redefining sustainable luxury living. Facilities such as a rooftop pool and spa make daily life feel like a luxe getaway. People are already talking about a 100 per cent ROI.

Jumeirah The Rings
(Dh59-69m |Q4 2025)
With circular towers that have 180-degree sea views, sky gardens, and a 360-degree rooftop infinity pool, this project is a magnet for design enthusiasts and architectural visionaries. It will employ a unique building style in Jumeirah 1, and it will stand out. The location is close to the beach with views of the park, and sea. Some balconies have pools. Designed by world-renowned Foster + Partners, the common areas have floor-to-ceiling glass that showcase expansive views. The prices are high even for Dubai, with style and design being a huge part of the appeal here in one of the city's most upmarket addresses. Six-bedroom duplexes are now selling for Dh70 million, each with their own pool. It's like something out of a movie set for the ultra-rich.

Ellington Villa Collection
(Dh25-50m |Q1 2027)

Canadian brand Ellington has become one of the country's top five developers. The design of its projects is different from other developers, more smooth, clean. It's obviously slick, well designed, and with specific colour schemes. The firm that at first concentrates on residential buildings is now launching a villa project. These bespoke villas focus on artisanal craftsmanship and circadian lighting, and the development is attracting creative professionals and luxury connoisseurs. The homes range between 6,000 square feet and 8,000 square feet, with four to six bedrooms. One thing people like with this development is that you need to bring very little along as its units are all equipped with electrical appliances in the kitchen. Located near Tilal Al Ghaf, it will be a fast-growing part of the city.

The Oasis by Emaar, Lagoon Views
(Dh9.7-30m |Q2 2029)

Anyone who visits Dubai knows Emaar can see how it has expanded over the years. Emaar is known for its great facilities and high quality. This innovative waterfront community with artificial lagoons, outdoor kitchens, and temperature-controlled lounges is designed for high-profile investors who value sustainability and networking. Emaar was the first to build these kinds of communities and the company does it the best. This oasis is going to be marketed as the most premium gated community in the firm's portfolio. The location is near Tilal Al Ghaf. Wealthy families will flock here, attracted to the custom-built facilities and design. Foreign investors will love this. It's close to Dubai South, which is becoming a hub for business and is situated next to the upcoming airport. The big lagoons will also set this space apart. You can plan activities there, such as picnics on the sand banks. It creates the feeling of being close to nature, which is what takes it to another level and offers a unique lifestyle opportunity.

Murjan Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi
(Dh20-40m |June 2025)

These beachfront villas on Saadiyat Island blend cultural sophistication with sustainability. Close to Louvre Abu Dhabi and Guggenheim, the area is attracting art collectors and cultural leaders. Here, you can feel nature, and you feel that it's different from anything else in the Emirates, like an urban haven. The developers have created a high-end group of villas within a gated community. It's safe and secure and has ocean views and white sands, a real privilege of being in that area. Though it's not close to the centre of the city, it gives a feeling of resort living. The prices can go up to Dh35-40 million, high if you're talking about the Abu Dhabi market, which is considered to be more economical than Dubai's realty.

Tilal Al Ghaf Mansions
(Dh20-50m | Q2 2025)

This is a gated community inside a gated community, so residents have all the privilege of this high luxury bubble on the Tilal Al Ghaf lagoon. Offering exclusive inland luxury with private beach access, homes have features including 7m ceilings, and biometric security. It is a top choice for business leaders seeking personalised architectural design by the best architects. From five bedrooms to seven and with size from 10,000 square feet to 17,000 square feet, it will be aimed at the wealthy family market. These are massive properties and most of the villas have been sold, but there are a lot more that will be available this year.

* Note: prices and dates are correct as of date of publication but are subject to change.