Dubai has always pushed the limits of what a city can build — the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah — and its latest wave of Dubai mega-projects is even more ambitious. Here are five landmark developments that will reshape the emirate's skyline and economy for generations to come.
Al Maktoum International Airport
First opened in 2010, Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) is set to become the largest airport in the world by passenger traffic. Approved plans call for the airport to handle 260 million passengers per year, with five parallel runways, five terminal buildings, and an underground train system. An entire new city district is taking shape at Dubai South around the hub. While DXB airport is expected to hand over primary operations by 2030, full development of the surrounding area could extend to 2050.
Dubai World Islands
First conceived in 2003, The World Islands project — a cluster of artificial islands shaped like a world map — is now welcoming guests thanks to luxury villa developments. The Heart of Europe is already open, featuring attractions such as the Raining Street at the Côte d'Azur Monaco Hotel. Future additions include Honeymoon Island and the Marbella Resort Hotel, designed to offer extraordinary beachfront escapes just off the coast of Dubai.
Palm Jebel Ali
After a lengthy pause, the Palm Jebel Ali project has been revived with a dramatically expanded masterplan — double the size of Palm Jumeirah. Developer Nakheel's new vision stretches 13.4 km along the Dubai coastline across seven connected islands designed for around 35,000 families. The development will include more than 80 hotels and resorts, residential communities, beach clubs, and a dedicated celebration village.
The Island
Inspired by the Las Vegas entertainment model, The Island is an offshore destination situated near Jumeirah that will bring the MGM Grand, Bellagio, and Aria hotel brands to Dubai for the first time. Beyond its 1,400 hotel rooms, the project will feature restaurants, lagoons, a Cirque du Soleil aqua performance, and a Dubai Sphere — an MGM-branded version of the iconic Las Vegas Sphere — at an estimated cost of USD 1.2 billion.
Six Senses Dubai Marina
The 122-storey Six Senses Residences Dubai Marina tower will stand at 517 metres, making it the world's tallest residential building upon completion. Developed by Select Group and designed by Woods Bagot, the tower will contain 251 ultra-luxury residences — from deluxe apartments to triplex Sky Mansions — alongside wellness-focused communal spaces rooted in biophilia and feng shui principles. Completion is expected in July 2028.
