The World Islands is one of Dubai's most ambitious and exclusive developments — a collection of man-made islands shaped like a world map, located approximately four kilometres off the coast of Jumeirah. Originally conceived in the early 2000s, this extraordinary archipelago has evolved from a visionary concept into a thriving luxury destination, with several islands now fully developed and offering some of the most private residential experiences in the UAE.
What sets The World Islands apart is the sheer exclusivity of the lifestyle on offer. Residents enjoy unparalleled privacy, panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai skyline, and direct beach access on virtually every doorstep. The development attracts ultra-high-net-worth individuals and investors seeking trophy assets with strong capital appreciation potential.
Projects like The Heart of Europe have introduced boutique hotel-style residences, floating seahorse villas, and European-inspired island communities that are unlike anything else in the region. Connectivity is primarily by boat or helicopter, reinforcing the sense of seclusion while keeping mainland Dubai just minutes away. The area appeals to buyers looking for a lifestyle that blends resort-level amenities with permanent residential comfort. With ongoing development phases and increasing global interest, The World Islands remains one of Dubai's most talked-about investment frontiers — a place where exclusivity, innovation, and waterfront living converge in spectacular fashion.
Prices of properties for sale in The World Islands range from AED 650K to AED 150M, with a median of AED 27.56M. A total of 76 listings are available. 43 properties have been listed for sale in The World Islands over the past 30 days. Across all listings, 51% are verified and 76% are listed by SuperAgents.
studio
1
407 sqft
Hotel & Hotel Apartment
Cote D'Azur Hotel, The Heart of Europe, The World Islands, Dubai
5
7+
30,321 sqft
Villa
Amali Island, The World Islands, Dubai
7
7+
44,200 sqft
Villa
Amali Island, The World Islands, Dubai
6
7
28,387 sqft
Villa
Zuha Island Villas, The World Islands, Dubai
studio
1
406 sqft
Apartment
Cote D'Azur Hotel, The Heart of Europe, The World Islands, Dubai
6
6
27,765 sqft
Villa
Zuha Island Villas, The World Islands, Dubai
6
6
24,402 sqft
Villa
Zuha Island Villas, The World Islands, Dubai
none
471,659 sqft
Land
The World Islands, Dubai
32 sale transactions were recorded in The World Islands over the past 12 months, marking a 74.8% decrease YoY.
The data displayed is based on average prices and sizes of all in The World Islands.
See all TransactionsThe World Islands is an archipelago of approximately 300 man-made islands positioned around 4 kilometres off the coast of Jumeirah in Dubai. The islands have no road bridge to the mainland and are reached exclusively by private boat, water taxi, yacht, or seaplane. The journey from Dubai Marina or Jumeirah typically takes 15 to 20 minutes by speedboat. Once on the mainland, Dubai's road network provides swift access to Downtown Dubai, DIFC, and Dubai International Airport. The World Islands' nearest mainland neighbours are among Dubai's most prestigious coastal communities. While The World Islands themselves are a destination, several of Dubai's most celebrated landmarks are reachable within a short boat journey to the mainland. The World Islands are accessible exclusively by water or air. There are no metro, tram, or bus stations on the islands, and no road bridge to the mainland. Residents typically use private boat transfers, water taxis, or yacht shuttles. Once on the mainland, the nearest Red Line metro stations are DMCC (8.5 km) and Al Khail (9.2 km). Sheikh Zayed Road, Jumeirah Beach Road, and Al Khail Road are all accessible within minutes of mainland landing points. This offshore exclusivity is part of the development's defining character, ensuring absolute privacy for residents.
The World Islands has 3 restaurants within a 1 km radius
The World Islands offers an extremely limited and ultra-premium inventory of residential properties. Villas on private island plots and resort-style apartments within boutique developments make up the primary residential offering. Properties here are among the rarest in Dubai, with scarcity driving both pricing and long-term capital appreciation. Price per sqft averages AED 3,850 — 72% above the Dubai average — reflecting the unparalleled exclusivity of island living.
Villas on The World Islands represent the pinnacle of luxury living in Dubai. These ultra-premium residences typically range from 4 to 7 bedrooms, with built-up areas spanning 5,000 to over 15,000 sqft. Many feature open-plan living areas flowing seamlessly onto private terraces and beachfronts, with floor-to-ceiling glazing maximising panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai skyline. Private pools, landscaped gardens, boat docks, and direct beach access are standard features.
Apartments on The World Islands cater to buyers seeking a resort-like lifestyle within boutique developments on select islands. Units range from 1 to 3 bedrooms with sizes between 800 and 2,500 sqft. Interiors feature high-end finishes, expansive balconies, and water-facing orientations. Many developments include shared amenities such as infinity pools, private beach clubs, spa facilities, and concierge services, appealing to investors and lifestyle buyers looking for a unique managed living experience.
Unique to The Heart of Europe development, the Floating Seahorse villas are among the world's most distinctive residential products. These semi-submersible residences feature underwater bedrooms and living spaces with views of the coral reef below, alongside above-water terraces and private decks. Available in 2 to 3 bedroom configurations, they represent the ultimate expression of innovative waterfront living and attract significant international buyer interest.
The flagship developments within The World Islands include:
The World Islands is a man-made archipelago located approximately 4 kilometres off the coast of Jumeirah in Dubai. Comprising around 300 small islands shaped to resemble a world map, the development offers ultra-exclusive residential, hospitality, and leisure properties. Access is primarily by boat or seaplane, contributing to its reputation as one of Dubai's most private and prestigious addresses.
Property prices on The World Islands are among the highest in Dubai, reflecting the exclusivity and scarcity of available inventory. Villas and island estates can range from AED 15 million to well over AED 100 million depending on size, island location, and development features. Apartments in resort-style projects typically start from AED 2 million for smaller units.
The World Islands represents a niche investment in Dubai's ultra-luxury segment. With limited supply and growing interest from high-net-worth buyers and hospitality brands, capital appreciation potential is significant. Several islands are being developed into branded resorts and residential communities, which enhances long-term value. However, investors should consider the longer development timelines typical of such projects.
The World Islands are accessible by boat, yacht, or seaplane from mainland Dubai. Most developments provide private boat transfers or marina shuttle services for residents and visitors. The journey from Dubai Marina or Jumeirah typically takes between 15 and 20 minutes by speedboat. This water-based access adds to the exclusivity and privacy of island living.
Amenities on The World Islands vary by individual island development but commonly include private beaches, infinity pools, spa and wellness centres, fine-dining restaurants, water sports facilities, and yacht marinas. Several islands host luxury resorts with world-class hospitality services. Residents enjoy a self-contained lifestyle with leisure and recreation options designed to match the ultra-premium positioning of the community.
Several islands have reached completion or are under active development. Notable projects include The Heart of Europe, which features themed islands with hotels and residences inspired by European destinations, as well as other privately developed islands with bespoke villa estates. Development continues across the archipelago as more investors bring luxury hospitality and residential concepts to fruition.
