Independent area guide

Dubai Islands — five islands off Deira

Know the islands, the handovers and the practical trade-offs before you shortlist a home.

Not Nakheel. Not a listing broker.

At a glance

Five islandsCentral, Marina, Shore, Golf, Elite
~20 km planned beachSource: Nakheel, Sep 2026
DXB 15–20 min off-peakPeak is longer
Handovers 2026–2028, some 2029Verify per project

Area quoted as 17 or 18.6 sq km depending on source.

Three paths

Live hereFor buyers comparing homes, schools, beaches and access.
Start with the guide
InvestUnderstand tenure, delivery risk and rental assumptions.
See the numbers
Understand the placeMap the five islands and what is actually planned.
Read the master plan

The five islands

CentralThe central island and its planned connections.
MarinaWaterfront living around the marina edge.
ShoreBeach-facing homes and coastal access.
GolfGolf-side plots and lower-density plans.
ElitePremium waterfront residences and hospitality.

Handing over

Azura ResidencesEarly apartment handover window, 2026
View projects
Bay VillasVillas / townhouses, later than the first apartment keys
View projects
Bay Grove ResidencesLarge waterfront apartment scheme; construction contract awarded Sep 2026, completion quoted late 2028 for the contracted phases
View projects
Rixos residencesBranded stock, later 2026 window often cited; confirm before you quote a month
View projects

Open the handover tracker

Request a shortlist

Tell us what you are looking for and we will route your enquiry to an empanelled partner.

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FAQ

Is Dubai Islands the same as Deira Islands?

Yes. Palm Deira became Deira Islands, then Dubai Islands (2022). Same land, new name.

Who is the master developer?

Nakheel. Other developers also build on the islands. Nakheel is not the builder of every tower.

Is it freehold?

Yes — designated freehold. Confirm the specific unit on the DLD / Dubai REST app before you pay.

How far is DXB?

About 15–20 minutes off-peak by road. Peak traffic is longer. Treat “10 minutes” claims as marketing.

Is there a metro?

No. Nearest metro is on the Deira mainland.

When do homes hand over?

Staggered. Some 2026, a large middle cohort 2027, later phases 2028–29. Use the tracker, not a single year.

Can foreigners buy?

Yes, in this freehold community. Golden Visa depends on the current AED threshold and the title — not on this website.

Are you Nakheel or a broker?

Neither. Independent guide. Enquiries go to empanelled partners.