The World Islands
Project Highlights
Key features
Man-made islands designed in the shape of the world map
Over 260 islands offering private homes, estates, and resorts
Developed by Nakheel Properties
Exclusive offshore lifestyle with high levels of privacy
Stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline
Sustainable marine engineering and environmental initiatives
World Islands is currently being developed by Nakheel Properties, a well-known developer in Dubai renowned for such mega waterfront developments. Over the early 2000s, developed in stages, the project has had some of the islands completed while others are still in development. The islands vary in size from small to big and are designed for use in different ways, like private residences, resorts, and business hubs.
One of the strongest selling points of The World Islands is the absolute privacy and exclusivity it offers. With no public road access, visitors and residents can only reach the islands by seaplane, helicopter, or boat. This makes the location particularly appealing to high-net-worth individuals seeking private retreats.
Some popular hospitality brands have built resorts on some of the selected islands, with splendid amenities, beaches, and entertainment facilities. Examples include The Heart of Europe project, a replication of European-styled hotels and amenities.
The World Islands, although innovative, is still in development, having minimal residential properties for sale or rent. Future phases will introduce additional islands in completion, thereby rendering the development a dynamic landmark in Dubai's real estate market.
Market Trends & Living Insights
Real Estate Market Trends & Prices
As of current data, The World Islands features exclusive properties with significant price variations depending on the island and type of development. Sale prices for private islands can range from AED 50 million to over AED 180 million, depending on size and location. Resorts and hotel plots are priced higher due to commercial potential. Rental opportunities are limited to specific resort-operated villas or hospitality experiences. Due to its niche market, ROI is generally lower compared to mainland Dubai but offers a unique investment proposition focused on ultra-luxury buyers.
Popular Property Types & Layouts
Private islands with bespoke villas and estates
Resort-style beachfront villas
Hotel suites and serviced apartments on resort islands
Properties range from 4-bedroom villas to large estate homes over 20,000 sq.ft.
Pros & Cons of Living In The World Islands
Pros:
Unparalleled privacy and seclusion
Unique themed developments like Heart of Europe
Panoramic sea and skyline views
Luxury resort amenities
Cons:
Limited transportation options (boat, seaplane only)
Lack of everyday amenities within the development
High maintenance and service charges
Limited property resale liquidity
Transportation & Parking
If you own a car, residents will typically need to park on the mainland and commute via water or air transport to the islands.
Public Transportation in The World Islands
Public transportation options are limited due to the offshore nature of the development.
No direct metro station access
No public bus routes serving the islands
Access via private boat from Jumeirah coast marinas
Seaplane services available from designated terminals
Helicopter access permitted on select islands with helipads
Amenities, Schools & Healthcare
Supermarkets near The World Islands
Residents must rely on mainland supermarkets located in Jumeirah and nearby areas.
Waitrose, The Dubai Mall
Spinneys, Jumeirah
Choithrams, Jumeirah
Carrefour, City Walk
Al Maya Supermarket, Jumeirah
Mosques, Temples, and Churches in The World Islands
Mosques: There are no mosques on The World Islands itself. Residents can visit mosques in Jumeirah and nearby areas.
Temples: There are no temples within The World Islands. The nearest temples are in Bur Dubai and Al Fahidi area, approximately 20-30 minutes by car from the mainland.
Churches: No churches are located on The World Islands. Churches in Jebel Ali and Oud Metha are accessible from the mainland.
Nurseries, Schools, Higher Education in The World Islands
Nurseries near The World Islands:
Little Land Nursery, Jumeirah
British Orchard Nursery, Jumeirah
Odyssey Nursery, Jumeirah
Schools near The World Islands:
Jumeirah College, Jumeirah
GEMS Wellington International School, Al Sufouh
Dubai American Academy, Al Barsha
Higher Education near The World Islands:
American University in Dubai, Dubai Internet City
Middlesex University Dubai, Knowledge Park
University of Wollongong in Dubai, Knowledge Park
Clinics and Hospitals Near The World Islands
Dubai London Clinic, Jumeirah Beach Road
Emirates Hospital, Jumeirah
Mediclinic City Hospital, Dubai Healthcare City
American Hospital Dubai, Oud Metha
King's College Hospital London, Dubai Hills
Nearby Areas
The World Islands are located off the Jumeirah coast, with close proximity by boat to Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah Bay Island, and Pearl Jumeirah. On the mainland, communities like Jumeirah, Downtown Dubai, and Business Bay are reachable within 20 to 30 minutes depending on marine transfer times. Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah are also relatively nearby, offering additional leisure, dining, and shopping options.
Lifestyle & Leisure
Shopping Malls in The world Islands
The World Islands residents rely on malls located in mainland Dubai.
The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
Mercato Shopping Mall, Jumeirah
Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha
Restaurants in The world Islands
The World Islands features exclusive dining at resort-operated outlets.
The Floating Venice Restaurants
Sweden Island Beach Club
Lebanon Island Restaurant
Other Nearby Dining Options
Pierchic, Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah
Zuma, DIFC
Coya Dubai, Four Seasons Jumeirah
Beaches Near the Area in The World Islands
JBR Beach
Kite Beach
Jumeirah Open Beach
Leisure & Landmarks The World Islands
The Heart of Europe themed islands
Lebanon Island Beach Club
Floating Seahorse Villas
Outdoor, Fitness & Beauty
Private beach clubs
Swimming and water sports activities
Spa and wellness centers in resorts
Jogging paths within select resort islands
Community Events in The World Islands
Seasonal events such as festive celebrations, European-themed events at Heart of Europe, and resort-hosted private events are held for residents and guests.
FAQs
Burj Khalifa – 15 mins (via marine and road transfer)
Dubai Mall – 12 mins (via marine and road transfer)
Dubai Marina – 25 mins (via marine and road transfer)
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