Dubai Maritime City Overview

Dubai Maritime City (DMC) is a master-planned waterfront peninsula of approximately 2.27 square kilometres on Dubai's central coastline, located between Port Rashid and Dubai Drydocks. Developed under the umbrella of DP World as a dedicated maritime hub, it has evolved into a dynamic sea-view residential district, attracting buyers and investors to a central waterfront address in the heart of the city.

The peninsula combines premium residential towers, offices, marine businesses and waterfront promenades in a single destination surrounded by the waters of the Arabian Gulf. Leading developers, including Omniyat, BEYOND, Danube Properties, DAMAC, Deyaar, Select Group and Prestige One, have launched a new generation of waterfront residences here, among them the region's first standalone waterfront Hilton-branded residences.

Highlights

•       Central waterfront location: sea views in the centre of Dubai, minutes from Bur Dubai, Downtown Dubai, DIFC and Dubai International Airport.

•       A peninsula setting: water on almost every side, with a defined number of residential plots.

•       Institutional backing: part of the maritime cluster associated with DP World, one of the world's leading port and logistics groups.

•       Leading developers: flagship projects from many of Dubai's best-known developers.

•       Branded residences: international hospitality brands, including the region's first standalone waterfront Hilton Residences.

•       Waterfront regeneration: located beside Rashid Yachts and Marina, the Al Shindagha Corridor and the heritage districts of Bur Dubai.

•       Active market: strong sales activity and rising prices, as set out in Property Market.

Dubai Maritime City at a glance

•       Master developer: DP World, through the Dubai Maritime City development

•       Location: central Dubai coastline, between Port Rashid and Dubai Drydocks

•       Total area: approximately 2.27 square kilometres (249 hectares)

•       Districts: six, including the Harbour Residence residential district

•       Ownership: freehold in designated residential developments, open to international buyers

•       Property types: studios, apartments, duplexes, penthouses and branded residences

•       Distance to Bur Dubai: around 1.5 kilometres

•       Distance to Dubai International Airport: around 10 kilometres

A district in its residential growth phase

Dubai Maritime City was conceived as the home of Dubai's maritime industry, and that foundation gave the peninsula its reclaimed land, roads, utilities and an established business community. Today the district is in its residential growth phase. Waterfront towers, design-led residences and branded developments are transforming the peninsula into a premium place to live, and almost all recent sales have been off-plan, reflecting strong buyer demand for new launches.

For investors, this combination of a mature, serviced peninsula and a fresh residential pipeline creates a clear growth path. As each tower completes and promenades, retail and amenities open, the district's profile as a waterfront address continues to rise.

Where Is Dubai Maritime City? Location and Connectivity

Dubai Maritime City occupies a peninsula on Dubai's central coastline, framed by Port Rashid on one side and Dubai Drydocks on the other, with the open Gulf ahead and the city behind. Residents enjoy sweeping sea views while living minutes from the city's historic, cultural and business heart.

A central waterfront position

The peninsula sits close to the mouth of Dubai Creek, a short drive from Bur Dubai, Al Mankhool and Karama. Across the water lie Dubai Islands and the historic Deira waterfront, and immediately next door is the Rashid Yachts and Marina district at Port Rashid. The surrounding area is home to characterful destinations, from the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and Al Seef to Al Shindagha Historic District.

Views in every direction

•       Sea views: towers along the peninsula's edges look out over the open Gulf, marinas and passing yachts and cruise ships.

•       City views: panoramic outlooks over Bur Dubai, Al Shindagha and the towers of Downtown Dubai.

•       Sunset views: west-facing aspects with sunsets over the sea.

Key distances and travel times

•       Bur Dubai, Al Mankhool and Karama: a few minutes by car, around 1.5 kilometres to Bur Dubai.

•       Al Fahidi, Al Seef and Al Shindagha: a short drive along the Creek.

•       Downtown Dubai and Business Bay: typically around 12 to 15 minutes.

•       DIFC and Dubai World Trade Centre: around 10 to 15 minutes.

•       Dubai International Airport (DXB): around 10 kilometres, typically 15 to 20 minutes via the Infinity Bridge.

•       Jumeirah, City Walk and La Mer: a short drive along Jumeirah Street and Al Wasl Road.

Road network

The peninsula connects by causeway to Al Mina Street, one of the main arteries of central Dubai. From there, residents can reach Sheikh Zayed Road, Jumeirah Street and the business districts, or cross Dubai Creek via the Infinity Bridge towards Deira, Dubai Islands and the airport.

The area benefits directly from the Al Shindagha Corridor, a 13 kilometre programme by Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) that has upgraded junctions and bridges along Sheikh Rashid Street, Al Mina Street, Al Khaleej Street and Cairo Street. The corridor was designed to serve Dubai Maritime City together with Dubai Islands, Dubai Waterfront and the Port Rashid redevelopment. In May 2025 the RTA announced the completion of all corridor phases on the Bur Dubai side, creating a continuous route from Al Garhoud Bridge to Port Rashid via the Infinity Bridge.

Public transport

•       Dubai Metro: the Green Line serves Bur Dubai, with stations such as Al Ghubaiba close to the district.

•       Buses: RTA bus routes run along Al Mina Street.

•       Water transport: the abra and water taxi network along Dubai Creek and the coastline connects to Deira, Al Seef and beyond.

Sea and cruise connections

•       Hamdan bin Mohammed Cruise Terminal: located at neighbouring Port Rashid, one of the region's leading cruise gateways.

•       Rashid Yachts and Marina: a waterfront marina district next door.

•       Marine services: the peninsula's own maritime facilities provide rapid access to open water and boating services.

Dubai Maritime City Master Plan

The Dubai Maritime City master plan organises the 249-hectare peninsula into six districts that bring together living, working, education, marine services and leisure in one integrated waterfront city.

Development background

Dubai Maritime City was conceived in 2003 as a dedicated home for the international maritime community, initiated under the leadership of DP World in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Land was reclaimed to form a new peninsula between Port Rashid and Dubai Drydocks, and roads, utilities and marine infrastructure were delivered in phases.

The peninsula draws on Dubai's long maritime heritage. Port Rashid, which opened in the early 1970s next to today's Maritime City, became the emirate's first modern port and a symbol of Dubai's rise as a global trading hub. Dubai Maritime City carries that heritage forward, supporting the emirate's long-term maritime strategy while opening a new chapter as a premium residential address.

The six districts

Harbour Residence

The residential heart of the peninsula, made up of freehold plots for high-rise waterfront towers positioned to capture sea, marina and skyline views. This is where leading developers have launched their flagship residential projects.

•       Waterfront residential towers and branded residences

•       Landscaped podiums, infinity pools, fitness centres and residents' lounges

•       Planned promenades with shops, cafés and green spaces at street level

Maritime Centre

The centrepiece of the master plan, located at the gateway nearest to the causeway linking DMC with the rest of Dubai.

•       Landmark towers, offices and hotels

•       Waterfront plots for maritime-related businesses

•       A prestigious front door and commercial core for the district

Harbour Offices

A series of plots along the harbour dedicated to office towers for maritime and related companies, bringing professionals into the district every day.

•       Office towers for shipping, logistics, marine and professional services

•       A natural community of professionals who want to live close to work

Marina District

The leisure side of the peninsula, planned around berths for yachts and boats, waterfront dining and marine activities.

•       Yacht and boat berths

•       Waterfront dining and leisure

•       Direct access to boating, fishing and sailing

Industrial Precinct

The operational heart of Dubai's maritime cluster, with wet and dry berths, workshops, warehouses and showrooms.

•       Ship repair, yacht services and marine engineering facilities

•       Hundreds of registered maritime businesses

•       A strong base of skilled employment in the area

Academic Quarter

Located in the middle of the peninsula and dedicated to maritime education, training and research.

•       Training and research facilities for the maritime sector

•       A knowledge-driven dimension to the district

Residential Plots

Residential development on the peninsula is concentrated in the Harbour Residence district, which offers a defined number of freehold plots for waterfront towers. This gives Dubai Maritime City a calm, uncrowded waterfront environment and a distinctive, limited collection of sea-view homes in one of Dubai's most central coastal locations.

Development progress

•       2003: Dubai Maritime City is conceived as Dubai's dedicated maritime hub.

•       Following phases: land reclamation, roads, utilities and marine infrastructure are delivered, and the Industrial Precinct becomes fully operational.

•       Residential era: Omniyat launches Anwa, a 44-storey waterfront tower that becomes the tallest building in the district, followed by Anwa Aria.

•       Expanding pipeline: BEYOND, Danube Properties, DAMAC, Deyaar, Select Group, LIV Developers, LMD and London Gate launch waterfront residential projects.

•       November 2025: Prestige One signs with Hilton to develop the first standalone waterfront Hilton Residences in the Middle East and Africa.

•       December 2025: Hilton Residences Dubai Maritime City is officially unveiled.

•       2026: BEYOND launches Kanyon.

Developers and Projects in Dubai Maritime City

Dubai Maritime City has attracted an outstanding line-up of developers, from ultra-luxury pioneers to high-volume specialists. This concentration of leading names is a strong signal of confidence in the district's growth and gives buyers a wide choice of design, size and lifestyle.

Signature projects

Hilton Residences Dubai Maritime City by Prestige One

In November 2025 Prestige One Developments signed an agreement with Hilton to develop the first standalone waterfront Hilton Residences in the Middle East and Africa. The project was unveiled in December 2025 as the world's first Hilton-branded standalone waterfront residential development.

•       Positioned at the tip of the peninsula with sweeping sea views

•       One- to three-bedroom residences and a selection of exclusive penthouses

•       Private amenities and services aligned with Hilton's hospitality standards

•       Shoreline access and community spaces

Anwa and Anwa Aria by Omniyat

Omniyat, a developer of ultra-luxury residences, was among the first developers to launch in Dubai Maritime City.

•       Anwa is a 44-storey waterfront tower and the tallest building in the district

•       Anwa Aria extends Omniyat's presence on the peninsula

•       Premium design, high-quality finishes and panoramic sea views

BEYOND projects: Saria, Talea and Kanyon

BEYOND, Omniyat's design-led brand, has made Dubai Maritime City one of its key destinations.

•       Distinctive architecture and nature-inspired concepts, including vertical forest designs

•       Extensive wellness and leisure amenities

•       Kanyon, launched in 2026, combining waterfront living with nature-inspired design

Oceanz and Breez by Danube Properties

Danube has made a strong commitment to the district with the three Oceanz towers and Breez.

•       Sea-view apartments from studios to three-bedroom homes

•       Extensive amenity packages

•       Accessible payment plans that open the district to a wide range of investors

Harbour Lights and Chelsea Residences by DAMAC

•       Waterfront residential towers with contemporary design

•       Resort-style facilities and DAMAC's international profile

More developments on the peninsula

•       Mar Casa by Deyaar: a waterfront residential tower with sea views.

•       Nautica One and Nautica Two by Select Group: twin waterfront towers with resort-style amenities.

•       LIV Maritime by LIV Developers: contemporary sea-view apartments.

•       The Pier Residences by LMD: boutique waterfront living.

•       Franck Muller Yachting by London Gate: branded, yacht-inspired luxury residences.

New projects and phases are released regularly. Buyers should confirm each project's details and registration through the developer and the Dubai Land Department.

Dubai Maritime City Property Prices and Market Trends

Dubai Maritime City has become one of Dubai's most active waterfront residential markets, with prices rising by around 22.6% year on year in the 12 months to May 2026 and a median of about AED 3,149 per square foot. Figures in this section are based on published 2026 market analyses of Dubai Land Department (DLD) transaction data and should be confirmed at the time of purchase.

Market Overview

Demand in Dubai Maritime City is shaped by qualities that buyers consistently value: sea views in the centre of the city, a peninsula with a defined number of residential plots, a fully serviced setting backed by a world-class maritime cluster, and a line-up of leading developers. Branded residences such as Hilton Residences Dubai Maritime City bring international recognition to the district, while the transformation of the surrounding Port Rashid, Al Shindagha and Creek waterfront continues to enhance its appeal.

The district's maritime businesses, together with the offices of Bur Dubai, DIFC, Downtown Dubai and the World Trade Centre area, create a deep pool of professionals who want to live close to work. As the first new-generation towers complete and promenades, retail and amenities open, the peninsula's waterfront neighbourhood continues to take shape, and the market reflects that progress.

•       Median sale price: about AED 3,149 per square foot (DLD 12-month snapshot, May 2026).

•       Annual price change: around +22.6% year on year.

•       Off-plan share of sales: about 98%, reflecting strong demand for new launches.

•       Apartment sales: around 2,000 transactions over the last 12 months.

•       Established resale stock: typically trading between about AED 2,700 and 3,200 per square foot in mid-2026.

Prices by Project

•       Oceanz 1 and 2 by Danube: from about AED 1.1 million for a studio.

•       Oceanz 3 by Danube: from about AED 1.16 million for a studio.

•       Kanyon by BEYOND: from about AED 2.4 million for a one-bedroom apartment.

•       Hilton Residences by Prestige One: from about AED 3.2 million for a one-bedroom apartment.

Launch prices reflect the latest published developer releases and change as each phase sells.

Popular Property Types

•       Sea-facing apartments: homes with open views over the Gulf, marinas and skyline.

•       Branded residences: hotel-standard services and international brands, such as Hilton Residences.

•       Penthouses and larger apartments: high-floor homes with panoramic sea and city views.

•       Studios and one-bedroom apartments: efficient layouts close to central Dubai's business districts.

Illustrative Price Scenarios

The example below shows how the value of a 750 square foot one-bedroom apartment purchased at around AED 1,845,000 could develop over five years after handover at different annual rates of price growth. It is provided for illustration only and is not a forecast.

•       Purchase price: AED 1,845,000

•       At 3% a year: approximately AED 2.14 million after five years

•       At 5% a year: approximately AED 2.35 million after five years

•       At 8% a year: approximately AED 2.71 million after five years

Market Outlook

Several upcoming milestones are expected to shape the Dubai Maritime City market in the coming years:

•       Handover of the first new-generation residential towers

•       Opening of waterfront promenades, retail and dining

•       Completion of Hilton Residences Dubai Maritime City and other signature towers

•       New launches on the remaining Harbour Residence plots

•       Development of the Maritime Centre and the Marina District

•       Continued transformation of the Port Rashid and Al Shindagha waterfront

Rental Market

Owners can let their homes on long-term leases registered with Ejari or as licensed holiday homes managed by professional operators. Completed buildings such as Anwa, Mar Casa and Seascape deliver a median gross yield of around 5%, supported by demand for central sea-view apartments.

Payment Plans

Most projects in Dubai Maritime City are sold off-plan with staged payment plans, commonly structured around 50/50 or 65/35 splits between the construction period and handover. Staged payments keep the initial commitment manageable throughout construction.

Upcoming Infrastructure in Dubai Maritime City

Dubai Maritime City combines fully delivered core infrastructure with a strong pipeline of residential, commercial and leisure developments, supported by major road investment across the surrounding waterfront.

Existing infrastructure

•       Primary infrastructure: roads, water, power, drainage and telecoms delivered as part of the original development programme, giving new towers a ready foundation.

•       Causeway connection: a direct link to Al Mina Street and the wider road network.

•       Marine facilities: wet and dry berths, workshops and marine services in the Industrial Precinct.

•       Business community: an established base of maritime companies operating on the peninsula.

Road and transport projects

•       Al Shindagha Corridor: a 13 kilometre RTA programme connecting Bur Dubai, Deira and the waterfront districts, with all phases on the Bur Dubai side completed in May 2025.

•       Infinity Bridge: a high-capacity crossing at the mouth of Dubai Creek, providing fast access to Deira, Dubai Islands and the airport.

•       Port Rashid connections: a new bridge between the Infinity Bridge area and the Port Rashid development will further strengthen links along the waterfront.

Upcoming residential deliveries

•       First new-generation towers: a series of projects by Danube, DAMAC, Deyaar, Select Group and others scheduled for handover in the coming years.

•       BEYOND projects: Saria, Talea and Kanyon, bringing design-led residences and nature-inspired concepts.

•       Hilton Residences Dubai Maritime City: branded waterfront residences at the tip of the peninsula, scheduled towards the end of the decade.

•       Remaining Harbour Residence plots: further launches expected as the district continues to grow.

Commercial, hospitality and leisure plans

•       Maritime Centre: landmark towers, offices and hotels at the gateway to the peninsula.

•       Harbour Offices: office towers for maritime and professional companies.

•       Marina District: yacht and boat berths, waterfront dining and marine leisure.

•       Promenades and public spaces: waterfront walkways, retail and cafés growing alongside the residential towers.

Neighbouring developments

•       Rashid Yachts and Marina: a marina-led waterfront district at Port Rashid.

•       Hamdan bin Mohammed Cruise Terminal: one of the region's leading cruise gateways.

•       Al Shindagha Historic District: museums and heritage restoration along Dubai Creek.

•       Dubai Islands: a five-island beachfront destination across the Creek mouth.

Long-term vision

The long-term vision for Dubai Maritime City is a fully integrated waterfront city where homes, offices, hotels, marinas, promenades and maritime businesses sit side by side on a peninsula surrounded by the sea. Together with the transformation of Port Rashid, Al Shindagha and Dubai Islands, the district is set to form part of one of the most attractive waterfront clusters in the region, aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.

Living in Dubai Maritime City: Lifestyle and Amenities

Living in Dubai Maritime City means waking up to the sea, enjoying resort-style amenities at home and having the best of central Dubai within minutes.

Waterfront living

Most new towers are designed to maximise sea views, with floor-to-ceiling windows, generous balconies and terraces facing the Gulf, the marinas or the skyline. Evenings bring sunsets over the sea and the sight of yachts and cruise ships gliding towards Port Rashid. Waterfront promenades and podium gardens give residents space to walk, run and relax by the water.

Amenities at home

•       Infinity pools overlooking the sea

•       Fully equipped gyms and fitness studios

•       Spa and wellness facilities

•       Children's play areas and family spaces

•       Landscaped gardens and podium parks

•       Residents' lounges and co-working spaces

•       Concierge services, with hotel-standard services in branded residences

•       Distinctive concepts such as vertical forests and sky gardens in selected towers

Dining, shopping and leisure nearby

•       Al Seef and Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood: heritage architecture, cafés, art galleries and creekside dining.

•       Al Shindagha Historic District: museums celebrating Dubai's history and maritime traditions.

•       BurJuman and the shops of Bur Dubai and Karama: a broad range of shopping, from international brands to traditional markets.

•       Jumeirah, City Walk and La Mer: beaches, boutiques, restaurants and beach clubs.

•       Dubai Frame and Zabeel Park: landmark views and green space for families.

•       Dubai Creek and Deira's souks: the Gold Souk, Spice Souk and abra rides across the water.

Beaches and the sea

•       Public beaches of Jumeirah and La Mer a short drive away

•       Beaches of Dubai Islands across the Creek mouth

•       Nearby marinas offering berths, boat charters, fishing trips and water sports

Education and healthcare

•       Established schools and nurseries in Bur Dubai, Karama, Al Mankhool, Jumeirah and Oud Metha, covering British, American, Indian, IB and other curricula

•       Leading hospitals and clinics in Bur Dubai, Oud Metha and Dubai Healthcare City

Culture and community

Dubai Maritime City sits in the historic heart of the emirate, where Dubai's story began. Residents live among museums, heritage districts, traditional souks and the dhow wharves of Dubai Creek, while the peninsula's maritime community adds an international, professional atmosphere. It is a neighbourhood with both a strong sense of place and a strong sense of momentum.

How to Buy Property in Dubai Maritime City

Freehold ownership is available in the designated residential developments of Dubai Maritime City, so UAE nationals and international buyers can buy, own, let and resell property outright through the standard Dubai Land Department process.

Who Buys in Dubai Maritime City

•       Investors: buyers seeking a central waterfront asset, from sea-view apartments to branded residences and penthouses.

•       Professionals and young families: two- and three-bedroom apartments close to offices, schools and healthcare across central Dubai.

•       Luxury buyers: penthouses, high-floor sea views and hotel-standard services in signature towers.

•       Second-home buyers: international buyers looking for a central Dubai base with sea views and easy airport access.

•       Residency seekers: buyers combining a waterfront home with eligibility for a UAE residence visa.

Ownership

Freehold ownership gives full title to the property, registered with the Dubai Land Department and recorded on a title deed, or on an Oqood certificate for off-plan purchases until handover. Off-plan projects are registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), and buyers' payments are held in a dedicated project escrow account.

Buying Off-Plan

•       Choose the project, unit and payment plan that match your goals.

•       Confirm the project's RERA registration and escrow account through official DLD channels.

•       Reserve the unit with a booking deposit.

•       Sign the Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA).

•       Register the purchase on the DLD Oqood system.

•       Pay instalments in line with the payment plan.

•       Complete the handover inspection, pay the final instalment and receive the title deed.

Golden Visa and Residency

Property ownership in Dubai can qualify buyers for a UAE residence visa, including the 10-year Golden Visa when the property value meets the government threshold. Buyers should confirm the latest criteria with the Dubai Land Department or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs.

Letting Your Property

Long-term leases are registered with Ejari. Holiday-home lets require a permit from Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism, usually arranged through a licensed holiday-home operator.

Dubai Maritime City FAQs

Where is Dubai Maritime City located?

Dubai Maritime City is located on a peninsula on Dubai's central coastline, between Port Rashid and Dubai Drydocks, around 1.5 kilometres from Bur Dubai and 10 kilometres from Dubai International Airport.

Who developed Dubai Maritime City?

The peninsula was developed under the umbrella of DP World as Dubai's dedicated maritime hub. Residential towers are delivered by leading developers including Omniyat, BEYOND, Danube Properties, DAMAC, Deyaar, Select Group and Prestige One.

Can foreigners buy property in Dubai Maritime City?

Yes. The designated residential developments are freehold, so international buyers can own property outright.

What types of property are available?

Studios, one- to four-bedroom apartments, duplexes and penthouses, including branded residences.

How have property prices performed in Dubai Maritime City?

Prices rose by around 22.6% year on year in the 12 months to May 2026, reaching a median of about AED 3,149 per square foot. Full details are set out in the Property Market section.

What is the tallest building in Dubai Maritime City?

Anwa by Omniyat, a 44-storey waterfront tower, is the tallest building in the district.

How do I get to Dubai Maritime City?

By car via Al Mina Street and the Al Shindagha Corridor, with the Infinity Bridge providing fast access to Deira and the airport. The Dubai Metro Green Line serves nearby Bur Dubai, and RTA buses run along Al Mina Street.

What is nearby?

Al Seef, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Al Shindagha Historic District, BurJuman, City Walk, Jumeirah beaches, the Dubai Creek souks and the Hamdan bin Mohammed Cruise Terminal at Port Rashid.

Does buying in Dubai Maritime City qualify for a Golden Visa?

Property ownership can qualify buyers for a UAE residence visa, including the 10-year Golden Visa when the property value meets the government threshold. Buyers should confirm the latest criteria before purchase.

Important Notice

This page is provided for general information only and does not constitute financial, legal or investment advice. Figures are based on publicly available market sources at the date of publication and may change. Illustrative examples are not forecasts, and past price performance does not guarantee future results. Project details, prices and payment plans are subject to change by the respective developers. Readers should verify all information independently and consult licensed professionals before making any investment decision.