Latest Developments in Dubai: 2026 Guide | iRealtor
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Dubai guide

The latest developments shaping Dubai

From a new palm island to a new airport terminal: the projects shaping Dubai's next chapter.

By the iRealtor Advisory Team27 October 20263 min read

Dubai keeps adding new communities and infrastructure. This guide covers some of the major developments, described in the words of their developers and the Dubai Government.

Key takeaways
  • 01Palm Jebel Ali: first villa handovers planned from late 2026.
  • 02104 projects completed in Dubai in the first half of 2026, according to DLD data.
  • 03Al Maktoum International Airport: an AED 128 billion terminal project for 260 million passengers a year.
  • 04The Oasis by Emaar covers 100 million square feet.
01

Palm Jebel Ali

Nakheel's Palm Jebel Ali is a new island destination on Dubai's coast. Its master plan includes more than 80 hotels and resorts alongside villas and apartments. Nakheel reports that the first villa handovers are planned from late 2026. Explore Palm Jebel Ali.

02

Al Maktoum International Airport

In April 2024, the Dubai Government approved the designs for a new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport. The AED 128 billion project is designed for a capacity of 260 million passengers a year when complete. Communities near the airport, such as Dubai South and Emaar South, are close to this growth.

03

The Oasis

The Oasis by Emaar covers 100 million square feet and is planned around villas, lagoons and green spaces. Explore The Oasis.

04

Dubai Hills Estate

Emaar describes Dubai Hills Estate as a 2,700-acre multi-purpose development and part of Mohammed Bin Rashid City. It sits between Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina, along Al Khail Road, with easy access to the city's main districts. Explore Dubai Hills Estate.

05

Emaar South

Emaar South is a residential community near Al Maktoum International Airport and Expo City Dubai, built around an 18-hole championship golf course. Explore Emaar South.

06

Dubai Creek Harbour

Emaar's Dubai Creek Harbour is a waterfront community beside the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, with a marina, a promenade and homes close to Downtown Dubai. Explore Dubai Creek Harbour.

07

Emaar Beachfront at Dubai Harbour

Emaar Beachfront is a gated beachfront community in Dubai Harbour, between Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah, with private beach access for residents. Explore Emaar Beachfront.

08

Rashid Yachts & Marina

At Port Rashid, Emaar's Rashid Yachts & Marina combines waterfront homes with a full-service marina, restaurants and shops. Explore Rashid Yachts & Marina.

09

Burj Binghatti Jacob & Co Residences

In Business Bay, Binghatti is building Burj Binghatti Jacob & Co Residences, a branded residential tower. Final details are subject to the approval of the authorities.

10

Completions in 2026

According to Dubai Land Department data, 104 projects were completed in Dubai in the first half of 2026, with an investment value of more than AED 111 billion and 24,537 new homes.

11

What this means for buyers

New infrastructure and communities widen the choice of homes and areas in Dubai. An iRealtor advisor can help you compare off-plan launches in these communities, their payment plans and handover dates.

FAQs

When will the first homes on Palm Jebel Ali be handed over?

Nakheel reports that the first villa handovers are planned from late 2026.

How big is the Al Maktoum International Airport project?

The new passenger terminal is an AED 128 billion project designed for a capacity of 260 million passengers a year when complete.

Where is Dubai Hills Estate?

Dubai Hills Estate is part of Mohammed Bin Rashid City, between Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina, along Al Khail Road.

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