Dubai Islands is getting a new look by the water. Nakheel, part of Dubai Holding Real Estate, has awarded a marine works contract to upgrade around 3km of shoreline on the western side of Island B, with completion scheduled for Q4 2027.
The project, announced on 8 October 2026, will also create 320 metres of new beach frontage next to the Bay Villas community. For residents, buyers and investors, it is another step in turning Dubai Islands into one of the city's leading waterfront destinations.
What the Upgrade Includes
The contract went to Mar Marine & Building Contracting, and covers:
New breakwaters to protect the coastline and create calmer water.
Removing existing rock revetments - the protective rock walls along parts of the shore - to open up more natural beach.
A brand-new beach next to Bay Villas, adding 320 metres of frontage.
Refurbishing existing beaches along Island B's western side.
The beach works sit alongside other major investment on Island B, including an AED 2.6 billion construction contract for the 636-home Bay Villas community and an AED 527 million contract for roads, utilities and infrastructure awarded in April 2026.
About Dubai Islands
Dubai Islands is a Nakheel master development off the Deira coastline, extending one of Dubai's oldest waterfronts. When complete, it is planned to include:
18.6 sq km across five islands
More than 230,000 residents in around 62,000 homes
Over 11,000 hotel keys
More than 4,000 branded residences
Its location close to Deira, Dubai International Airport and Downtown makes it one of the most accessible waterfront communities in the city.
What it means for property buyers and investors
In Dubai, beach access is one of the strongest drivers of property value and rental demand. An upgraded shoreline adds real appeal to the homes behind it.
More beachfront lifestyle. New and refurbished beaches make Island B more attractive to families and end-users.
Holiday home potential. With thousands of hotel keys planned, Dubai Islands is shaping up as a tourism hub - good news for short-term rental owners.
An area still taking shape. Major contracts for homes, infrastructure and now the beach show steady investment. Buyers who enter while the community is being built often benefit as it matures.
Clear timeline. With completion set for Q4 2027, buyers can plan around when the beachfront will be ready to enjoy.
Find your waterfront home with Azora Property
Dubai Islands combines beach living, a growing hotel scene and easy access to the city's core. The Azora Property team can help you find the right villa, townhouse or apartment on the islands - whether you plan to live there or rent it out.
Our service: UAE Golden Visa
Buying property in Dubai can also open the door to long-term UAE residency. Azora helps eligible property investors through the Golden Visa process:
Eligibility check - we confirm whether your purchase qualifies.
Document preparation - title deed, valuation and everything the application needs.
Application support - we guide you through each step until your visa is issued.
Family included - support for adding your spouse and children where eligible.
Contact Azora Property today to explore homes on Dubai Islands and find out if your purchase qualifies for a Golden Visa.
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FAQs
What is happening at Dubai Islands Beach?
Nakheel is upgrading around 3km of shoreline on the western side of Island B and creating 320 metres of new beach next to Bay Villas.
When will the beach upgrade be finished?
Completion is scheduled for Q4 2027.
Who is carrying out the work?
Mar Marine & Building Contracting won the marine works contract from Nakheel.
How big is Dubai Islands?
The development spans 18.6 sq km across five islands and is planned for more than 230,000 residents in around 62,000 homes.
Is Dubai Islands a good place to invest?
It offers beachfront living, a growing tourism base, and ongoing infrastructure investment. As with any purchase, compare specific projects, developers, and expected returns before buying.