Waterfronts: Dubai Creek, Marjan

Dubai Creek Harbour: The Crown Jewel of Waterfront Living

At the forefront of Dubai’s waterfront real estate scene is Dubai Creek Harbour. This stunning destination seamlessly blends serenity with the vibrant pulse of Downtown Dubai. The area has garnered significant attention from investors, largely due to its elegant skyline and lush green surroundings. It’s also home to the under-construction Dubai Creek Tower, which promises to be an architectural marvel.

For those considering an investment, the entry prices for waterfront apartments begin at Dh1.45 million, while luxury villas can exceed Dh5 million. Investors are particularly attracted by the average rental yields of 6% to 6.8%, which points to a community that not only offers prestige but also considerable long-term upside.

Al Marjan Island: The Rising Star in Ras Al Khaimah

Moving further north, Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah has become a hotbed of investment interest following the announcement of the region’s first casino resort by Wynn. What once was a quiet coastal strip is rapidly transforming into a vibrant tourism and hospitality hotspot.

Here, entry-level apartments are available starting at Dh585,000, while ultra-luxury homes can fetch up to Dh30 million. With reports indicating annual price gains surpassing 20% in some sub-markets, along with impressive rental yields ranging from 8% to 9%, Al Marjan Island is indeed attracting a diverse pool of investors—both those looking for quick turnover and those keen on long-term gains.

Location Meets Lifestyle at Business Bay

Next on the radar is Business Bay, which has firmly cemented itself as a premium location adjacent to Downtown and the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). This area continues to draw buyers who prioritize income-generating assets. Here, studios and one- to two-bedroom apartments trade around Dh1.4 million, yielding 6% to 7% returns. The area’s popularity for short-term rentals only adds to its appeal, making it an attractive choice for investors.

Yas Island: Abu Dhabi’s Hidden Gem

In Abu Dhabi, Yas Island stands out as the go-to investment location for 2025. It has carved out a unique identity, combining family-friendly living with an upsurge in tourism—thanks to its plethora of theme parks, golf courses, marinas, and cultural venues.

Villas on Yas Island average around Dh4.5 million, while apartments are priced between Dh1.2 million and Dh3.8 million. With reliable rental yields of 6.5% to 7%, Yas Island presents a dual-purpose appeal: not just an ideal place for end-users seeking a quality lifestyle, but also a consistent return for landlords, making it a winning proposition for investors.

Dubai South: Aligned with the Future

Dubai South is another key area that follows the UAE’s vision for infrastructure and logistics development. Benefitting from its proximity to the expanding Al Maktoum International Airport and the legacy of the Expo 2020 district, Dubai South is an area poised for growth.

With prices starting at Dh800,000, the area is accessible for many, and projections suggest capital growth between 15% and 25% by 2030. The attractive rental yields, ranging from 6% to 8%, are drawing in early movers eager to capitalize on this transformative phase.

Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC): Stability for Investors

Finally, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) continues to be a go-to investment hub for first-time buyers and buy-to-let landlords. The district is known for its affordability, with apartments starting at Dh650,000 and entry-level villas available from Dh1.6 million.

JVC offers compelling rental yields between 7% and 8.6%, bolstered by a growing interest in design-led developments. Its consistent demand and stable returns make JVC one of the most sought-after affordable districts in the region.

Summer Key for Serious Buyers

According to Elkhan Salikhov, CEO of Elite Merit Real Estate, summer 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal time for serious buyers. “This summer presents a compelling value window which we expect will close quickly by Q4,” he notes. A combination of factors—pricing still below peak, soft summer inventory pressure, and upcoming project handovers—creates an ideal scenario for experienced buyers looking to make strategic investments.

By focusing on these lucrative waterfront destinations, both newcomers and seasoned investors are sure to find opportunities that not only satisfy their financial goals but also enhance their lifestyle choices in the UAE.