The Palm Jebel Ali project, initiated in 2002, stands as one of Dubai’s most ambitious and long-running developments. Situated off the coast of the city, this man-made island will eventually be twice the size of Palm Jumeirah upon completion.
After a 15-year hiatus, which began in 2008 due to economic challenges, the once-dormant island is now seeing renewed activity. Last year, property developer Nakheel announced plans to revive the project, marking a significant milestone in its development.
In May, Nakheel awarded contracts to kick-start infrastructure works, signaling the project’s return to life. On Monday, August 26, 2024, a major announcement from the Government of Dubai revealed a Dhs810 million contract awarded to the Jan De Nul Group. This contract covers crucial tasks such as dredging, land reclamation, beach profiling, and sand placement. The marine works are anticipated to be ready by early next year, paving the way for the construction of villas and other civil works.
Palm Jebel Ali is set to span 13.4 kilometers of land, with 10.5 million square meters dedicated to development. The island will offer a staggering 110 kilometers of coastline and 91 kilometers of beachfront, designed to accommodate 35,000 families. This mega-project aligns with Dubai’s Urban Master Plan 2040, which aims to expand the city’s population to 5.8 million and significantly increase public beach access by 2040.
The decision to resume construction on Palm Jebel Ali comes after years of uncertainty. The global financial crisis in 2008 halted progress, leaving the project nearly canceled in 2022. However, Nakheel’s revival of the plans in 2023, coupled with new investments and partnerships, has brought the project back into the spotlight.
Palm Jebel Ali is poised to become a major residential and leisure hub, complementing the new Expo 2020 urban center. With 16 fronds and a variety of residential, commercial, and leisure facilities, the island promises to be a vibrant addition to Dubai’s landscape.
Public infrastructure work is also underway, with DBB Contracting LLC responsible for constructing a six-kilometer access road from Sheikh Zayed Road to Palm Jebel Ali. Khansaheb Civil Engineering LLC will build the roadway and lighting for Al Hesah Street, connecting to the new palm.
When fully developed, Palm Jebel Ali will host 80 hotels and resorts, alongside a wide array of restaurants, bars, and beach clubs. The first villas are expected to be handed over in 2027, with homes featuring beach connectivity, enhanced privacy, abundant greenery, panoramic views, and seamless indoor-outdoor living.
Although details remain scarce, the island will feature several key attractions, including a celebration village, family resort, eco-resort, and a signature wellness resort. The central focal point will be a towering structure offering 360-degree panoramic views.
While a specific completion date has not been confirmed, the project is a critical component of the Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040, suggesting that it will be finished before then.
