Dubai Islands Waterfront Set for Extensive Upgrade Ahead of 2027
Nakheel launches new marine works on Island B, bringing a new beach and upgrades across 3km of coastline
Dubai Islands is set to strengthen its waterfront appeal as Nakheel begins a new phase of coastal development on Island B. Around 3 kilometres of existing coastal areas will be improved, alongside the creation of approximately 320 metres of fresh beach frontage.
Mar Marine & Building Contracting L.L.C. will carry out the coastal works, which are scheduled to be completed by Q4 2027.
The shoreline works will include new breakwater structures alongside the removal of parts of the current rock revetment. . A new beach will also be formed in the vicinity of Bay Villas, adding another waterfront feature to the residential area.
Beyond the new beach, Nakheel will carry out repairs and improvement works on several existing beach sections along the western edge of Island B. The combination of new and upgraded areas is expected to give the island a more integrated and enhanced coastal setting.
New waterfront works advance alongside Bay Villas
The latest marine development is progressing at the same time as construction of Bay Villas, a residential neighbourhood planned to include 636 villas and townhouses on Island B.
Nakheel previously appointed Fibrex Contracting L.L.C. to build the Bay Villas community under a Dh2.6 billion contract. The new coastal package is expected to enhance the waterfront surrounding the residential development as construction of the community advances.
Island B has also been the subject of major infrastructure investment. In April 2026, Nakheel awarded Al Nasr Contracting Company a Dh527 million contract covering primary infrastructure and utility works for the island.
Dubai Islands continues its waterfront expansion
The latest coastal project forms part of the broader development strategy for Dubai Islands. Khalid Al Malik, CEO of Dubai Holding Real Estate, said the works are aimed at creating a high-quality coastal environment that develops alongside the wider masterplan.
Nabil Abou Rjaili, General Manager of Mar Marine & Building Contracting, said the project brings several elements together, including beach formation, breakwater construction and improvements to existing coastal areas.
Spanning approximately 18.6 kilometres across five artificial islands, Dubai Islands is connected to the historic Deira coastline and is being developed as a major waterfront destination within Dubai.
The wider masterplan is expected to create accommodation for more than 230,000 residents, with approximately 62,000 homes planned across the development. The project is also expected to feature more than 11,000 hotel rooms and over 4,000 branded residences.
With the latest marine works now moving forward, Island B is set to see its residential and waterfront development progress together. The addition of new beach frontage and the refurbishment of existing coastal areas will further shape the island's emerging waterfront environment as the wider Dubai Islands masterplan takes form.
