Facts checked on October 18, 2026
Where are Dubai Islands?
The islands lie off the Deira coast, close to the historic centre but separate from the mainland. The Infinity Bridge links them to the city, and the islands are connected to each other by bridges.
Nakheel quotes travel times of about 20 minutes to Dubai International Airport, 10 minutes to Gold Souq metro station and 24 minutes to Downtown Dubai.
Developer and layout
The master developer is Nakheel. There are five islands: Central Island, Marina Island, Shore Island, Golf Island and Elite Island, together about 17 square kilometres.
Nakheel plans more than 20 kilometres of beaches, including a Blue Flag-certified beach, plus parks and golf courses. Some hotels already operate, such as Centara Mirage, Hotel Riu and Rixos.
Character and types of homes
This is a coastal and resort area in the making. Part of the islands is set aside for hotels and tourism, part for housing.
From the Deira Islands era there is already a waterfront souk with about 400 shops, opened in 2021. Golf Island is planned with golf courses overlooking the Gulf.
- Three- and four-bedroom townhouses and waterfront villas by Nakheel
- Apartment buildings by several other developers
- Hotel-linked residences
- Most supply is off-plan
Is Dubai Islands freehold?
When the first villas went on sale in 2024, Gulf News reported that Nakheel was opening this part of traditional Dubai to freehold ownership. Foreign buyers therefore buy here as owners.
Always confirm this for each unit: for off-plan through the Oqood registration with the Dubai Land Department (DLD), and after handover through the title deed.
Off-plan payments go into the project's escrow account at a DLD-approved bank. Never pay outside that account.
Living on an island under construction
Buying now often means buying into surroundings that will look very different in a few years. Shops, schools and everyday services are still limited and will arrive step by step.
So look not only at the building but also at the master plan for the island it stands on.
What to check before you buy
I would rather tell you honestly that a project does not suit you than have you surprised later. These are the points I always go through.
- Which island the project is on and what is planned right around it
- Whether you get your own beach access or share a public beach
- The track record of the building's developer, not only Nakheel's
- The project's escrow account and the handover date in the contract
- Project status and transactions in DLD's real estate data
Frequently asked questions
Where are Dubai Islands located?
Off the coast of Deira, in the north of Dubai. The islands are connected to the city by the Infinity Bridge.
Is Dubai Islands the same as Deira Islands?
Yes. Nakheel renamed the Deira Islands project Dubai Islands in 2022, with a new master plan of five islands.
Can foreigners buy property on Dubai Islands?
Yes, the area is sold to foreign buyers as freehold. Check the Oqood registration or title deed with DLD for each unit.
What are the risks of buying off plan on Dubai Islands?
Much of the area is still being built, so amenities will come later. Check the escrow account, the handover date and the master plan around your building.
