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Inside Object 1’s mission to redefine premium urban living in the UAE

Since the company’s launch in 2022, Object 1 has grown at a staggering pace, completing over 15 distinctive projects

Gulf Business
Gulf Business

03 July, 2025

Inside Object 1’s mission to redefine premium urban living in the UAE
Image credit: Supplied

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Egor Maslennikov is not just building homes, he’s reimagining what urban living can and should look like in one of the world’s most competitive and fast-evolving real estate markets.

As the visionary chairman and founder of Object 1, Maslennikov has quickly made a name for himself in Dubai’s premium property sector by delivering developments that blend smart design, technological innovation, and sustainable living.

Image credit: Supplied

Since the company’s launch in 2022, Object 1 has grown at a staggering pace, completing over 15 distinctive projects and recording more than 1000 per cent year-on-year growth in sales volume—a rare feat in an industry defined by scale and speed. From pioneering concepts like EVERGR1N HOUSE, designed to meet the surging demand in the short-term rental market, to unveiling architectural landmarks such as ALTA V1EW, the tallest residential tower in Jumeirah Village Circle, Object 1 is carving out a new standard for aspirational, future-ready living in Dubai.

But for Maslennikov, this is just the beginning. His vision extends far beyond bricks and mortar. With a deep focus on community, sustainability, and lifestyle integration, he sees Object 1 evolving into a transformative force in the Gulf’s real estate landscape—one that defines how people connect with their homes, their neighborhoods, and the broader urban fabric. In this exclusive interview with Gulf Business, Maslennikov reflects on the founding vision that shaped Object 1, the strategic decisions behind its explosive growth, and what lies ahead for a developer that’s not only responding to the demands of today’s market, but actively shaping the cities of tomorrow.

Image credit: Supplied

Gulf Business sat down with Egor Maslennikov, Chairman and Founder of Object 1, to discuss the company’s rapid rise in Dubai’s real estate market, their vision for reimagining urban living, and what’s next for one of the fastest-growing developers in the region.

1-Egor, take us back to the founding vision behind Object 1. What gap in the market were you aiming to address when you launched in Dubai?

When we founded Object 1 in 2022, our goal was to address the growing demand for premium yet sustainable housing that meets the evolving lifestyle needs of residents in Dubai. We saw a gap in the market for developments that seamlessly combine innovation, quality, and eco-conscious design, all tailored to create communities that enhance well-being and provide long-term value. Our focus was not just on building houses but on crafting smarter, greener living spaces that align with Dubai’s broader vision for sustainable urban growth as outlined in the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.

2-Object 1 achieved over 1000 per cent growth in sales volume year-on-year, how did strategic thinking and market timing play into that achievement?

Our growth has been driven by a strategic blend of innovation, market insight, and a strong commitment to quality and sustainability. Timing was critical, we entered the market at a moment when demand for eco-friendly, technology-enabled living spaces was accelerating. By integrating smart home technologies, using durable and sustainable materials, and maintaining a meticulous focus on quality, we built trust with buyers. Our ability to deliver projects that resonate with both investors and end-users, combined with favorable government initiatives and attractive payment plans, positioned us to capture significant market share quickly.

3-Do you foresee Object 1 evolving into a lifestyle brand, given your emphasis on design, community, and customer experience?

Yes, that is certainly part of our vision. We are not just building properties; we’re creating communities that foster connection, comfort, and long-term satisfaction. Our emphasis on sophistication, sustainability, and tailored customer solutions positions us to become more than a developer, we aim to evolve into a lifestyle brand that defines how people experience urban living. Our focus on customer-centricity, transparency, and innovation will continue to deepen this connection with our residents and investors.

4-If you were to look five years ahead, what role do you want Object 1 to play in the transformation of urban living across the Gulf?

Looking ahead five years, I envision Object 1 as a key driver in transforming urban living across the Gulf by setting new standards for sustainable, tech-enabled communities. Guided by this vision, we approach real estate as a form of contemporary art, where every building is a masterpiece—not only in its striking exterior but also in the emotions it inspires the moment you step inside. Our goal is to lead the shift toward future-ready urban living by blending design, innovation, and sustainability to create vibrant, resilient cities that truly enhance residents’ quality of life.

5-Dubai’s real estate market is highly competitive. How does Object 1 differentiate itself to attract both investors and residents?

Our strategy is grounded in understanding market needs and delivering developments with real, lasting value. At Object 1, we focus on creating projects that align with Dubai’s demand for smart, sustainable, and investment-friendly living spaces.

For example, EVERGR1N HOUSE was designed for the thriving short-term rental market — blending modern architecture with smart technologies to attract both residents and tourists. Meanwhile, V1STARA HOUSE in Al Furjan caters to families, offering spacious layouts, premium finishes, and practical amenities for long-term living.

This focused, market-driven approach is reflected in our performance — in Q1 alone, we recorded a 913 per cent year-on-year growth in sales value and a 1059 per cent increase in sales volume, with over 860 units sold. These results show that both investors and residents recognise the value and potential of Object 1 developments. We believe that by combining thoughtful design, smart technology, and a deep understanding of market trends, we continue to stand out in Dubai’s dynamic real estate sector.

6-Are there any exciting new launches we should look out for this year?

Yes, we’re proud to introduce ALTA V1EW, our latest project and set to become one of the tallest towers in Jumeirah Village Circle. Rooted in the concept of “Life Above It All,” ALTA V1EW redefines modern living with intentional design, panoramic views, and a deep connection to light, nature, and space.

Set in District 10 of Jumeirah Village Circle, this striking 54-storey residential tower is designed to offer resort-style living paired with skyline-defining architecture. Featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, smart layouts, and contemporary finishes, the residences create bright, functional spaces. Residents can also enjoy a wide range of amenities — from a lagoon-style pool and landscaped gardens to a gym, clubhouse, tennis courts, and convenient retail outlets.

One of the standout features is the Sky Leisure Deck, which includes a Sky Infinity Pool and the Sky Infinity Terrace, offering uninterrupted views of Dubai’s skyline and greenery — a true sanctuary above the city.

Crowning the development is the Sky Leisure Deck, complete with a Sky Infinity Pool, sunken lounges, and our standout Sky Infinity Terrace — a panoramic viewing deck offering sweeping views of Dubai’s skyline and surrounding greenery, creating a true sanctuary above the city.

With ALTA V1EW, we continue building on our vision to deliver future-ready, aspirational living spaces that reflect the evolving expectations of Dubai’s urban community.

Off-plan sales surge in Dubai’s Business Bay: What’s driving the boom?

The figures underscore rising investor confidence in the district’s central location, upscale living, and consistent returns

Gulf Business
Gulf Business

02 July, 2025

Off-plan sales surge in Dubai’s Business Bay: What’s driving the boom?
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Business Bay recorded over Dhs4.5bn in off-plan real estate sales in Q2 2025, across more than 1,900 transactions—solidifying its position as one of Dubai’s most dynamic residential and investment hubs. The figures underscore rising investor confidence in the district’s central location, upscale living, and consistent returns.

Read-Five emirates, Dh239bn: UAE real estate rockets in early 2025

This surge in off-plan activity comes amid broader momentum in Dubai’s property market, which logged a record Dhs66.8bn in total sales in May 2025. That figure spans 18,700 transactions, reflecting a 44 per cent increase in value and a 6 per cent rise in volume compared to May 2024. Business Bay played a key role in this growth, contributing 5 per cent of the city’s total sales value while accounting for just 3 per cent of transactions—highlighting the area’s premium pricing and strong appeal.

Strategic positioning and developer response

Located between Downtown Dubai and the Dubai Canal, Business Bay remains a magnet for both local and international buyers. Its mix of world-class infrastructure, five-star hotels, and easy access to Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Metro, DIFC, and key leisure hubs positions it as a high-performance district in the city’s real estate landscape.

In response to continued demand, developers are accelerating delivery of design-led, lifestyle-focused projects, many of which include branded residences and luxury features aimed at the next generation of Dubai residents and global investors. The neighbourhood’s consistent yields and reputation for capital appreciation continue to make it a top choice for those seeking long-term growth in the heart of the city.

As demand continues to rise, developers are responding with design-led, lifestyle-focused projects that cater to the next generation of Dubai residents and global property investors. Among the most anticipated is a luxury branded residence by QUBE Development, in collaboration with the award-winning global hospitality group The Lux Collective and its flagship brand, LUX. This project brings to life the vision of a private sanctuary that blends urban luxury with world-class service in the heart of Business Bay.

Business Bay remains one of Dubai’s most connected and dynamic districts. QUBE Development aims to raise the bar for luxury living, introducing a fresh perspective on urban sophistication and branded residence excellence at the center of the city.

RTA Completes traffic improvements in Business Bay

In another development, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed three key traffic enhancements in the Business Bay area. The upgrades targeted several key locations along the corridor, which links directly to Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road, aiming to improve traffic flow and road safety.

The improvements are designed to meet the needs of residents, visitors, and businesses in a district known for its mix of residential, commercial, and service facilities, a WAM report said.

The works are part of a broader initiative to modernize infrastructure and enhance the efficiency of Dubai’s road network, in line with ongoing population growth and urban development. The completed upgrades are expected to ease congestion, raise safety standards, and reduce travel times in high-density areas.

As part of the project, the street running parallel to Sheikh Zayed Road was converted from a two-lane, two-way configuration into a one-way dual carriageway, with new signage and road markings. This modification doubled the street’s capacity and significantly improved traffic flow by reducing conflict points.

In addition, a 100-metre-long storage lane was constructed at the intersection of Al Mustaqbal Street and Al Khaleej Al Tejari 1 Street. The added lane has increased right-turn capacity toward First Al Khail Street by 50 per cent, cutting down congestion and wait times while enhancing the intersection’s efficiency.

Dubai: How DLD, DET’s new initiative will help first-time homeowners

The First-Time Home Buyer programme offers aspiring Emirati and expatriate homeowners priority access to new launches, preferential prices, and tailored mortgage solutions

Gulf Business
Gulf Business

02 July, 2025

Dubai: How DLD, DET’s new initiative will help first-time homeowners
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In a major move set to support the emirate’s real estate sector and residents, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) have jointly launched the First-Time Home Buyer programme, aimed at easing homeownership for Emiratis and expatriates.

The initiative offers first-time buyers priority access to new property launches, preferential pricing, and customised mortgage solutions, marking a significant step in making Dubai’s property market more accessible.

The programme aligns with key national and local frameworks, including the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033, and the UAE’s Year of Community.

Officials say the programme highlights the strength of public-private sector collaboration, with leading developers already on board.

First-Time Home Buyer programme: Banks and Dubai developers

Participating developers include Azizi Developments, Beyond Developments, Binghatti Holding, DAMAC Properties, Danube Properties, Dubai Properties, Ellington Properties, Emaar Properties, Majid Al Futtaim Group, Meraas, Nakheel, Palma Holding, and Wasl.

These partners will support to first-time home buyers through priority access to units in new off-plan launches, and enhanced commercial terms, including preferential pricing on units up to Dhs5m.

Participating banks include Commercial Bank of Dubai, Dubai Islamic Bank, Emirates NBD, Emirates Islamic and Mashreq bank will provide tailored mortgage products designed specifically for eligible buyers.

The programme will continue to onboard new partners post the launch to increase the choice for first time home buyers.

Created for all nationalities and income levels, the programme is open to applicants aged 18 and above who are residents of the UAE, and who do not currently own a freehold residential property in Dubai.

Helal Saeed Almarri, director general of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said: “This initiative represents a powerful economic lever, stimulating long-term demand, driving liquidity into the real estate ecosystem, and accelerating the sector’s contribution to GDP in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.

“By lowering entry barriers to homeownership for Emiratis and expatriates alike, we are enhancing investor confidence, increasing market absorption rates, and reinforcing Dubai’s global positioning as a city where personal aspirations and business ambitions converge.

“In a global climate where housing accessibility is a structural challenge, Dubai is offering a model of sustainable urban development, one that supports talent retention, fosters community cohesion, and enhances the city’s competitiveness as a place to live, work, and invest.

Omar Bu Shehab, director general of Dubai Land Department (DLD), said: “The First-Time Home Buyer programme embodies Dubai’s strategic vision for a more inclusive, transparent, and accessible real estate market. By easing entry into homeownership, we empower individuals and families to invest in their futures while supporting the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033’s broader objectives and Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

This initiative is a key driver of market resilience and positions Dubai as a global benchmark for sustainable urban development.”

Read: Dubai launches tokenised real estate investment project via ‘Prypco Mint’

UAE issues world’s first regulatory framework for hybrid air mobility operations

The new framework enables both aircraft types to use the same helipads and airspace, offering a cost-efficient infrastructure model and streamlining operational deployment

Rajiv Pillai
Rajiv Pillai

02 July, 2025

UAE issues world’s first regulatory framework for hybrid air mobility operations
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The UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has announced the launch of the world’s first regulatory framework for hybrid air operations, paving the way for electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing aircraft (eVTOLs) and traditional helicopters to operate interchangeably using shared infrastructure.

Marking a major milestone in the global integration of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), the new framework enables both aircraft types to use the same helipads and airspace, offering a cost-efficient infrastructure model and streamlining operational deployment. It is in line with the UAE government’s broader strategy to implement high-efficiency, non-bureaucratic solutions across emerging sectors.

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, director-general of the GCAA, told WAM, “The UAE has always been at the forefront of excellence in aviation. This pioneering regulatory framework does not merely enable new technology; it redefines how aviation evolves. It reflects our commitment to innovation in developing a supportive ecosystem for the growth of this vital sector and a future where advanced air mobility is seamlessly integrated into our national infrastructure.”

Developed through close cooperation with global players in the AAM sector, the hybrid operations framework aligns with the country’s long-term goals for sustainable transport, smart mobility, and optimised use of aviation infrastructure.

By allowing shared use of existing helicopter pads for eVTOLs, the framework is expected to accelerate project timelines, reduce infrastructure duplication, and solidify the UAE’s leadership in shaping the future of integrated aviation systems.

Aqeel Al Zarouni, assistant director-general for Aviation Safety Affairs at the GCAA, added, “This framework is a strategic enabler, not only for new modes of transport but for a smarter, more flexible regulatory environment that keeps pace with emerging technologies without compromising safety standards.”

UAE infrastructure rollout

Dubai is simultaneously stepping up its infrastructure rollout to support commercial eVTOL services. Late last year, the Dubai’s first vertiport near DXB was approved and is under construction. Named Dubai International Vertiport (DXV), the 3,100 m² facility is being built by Skyports near Dubai International Airport. It will support approximately 42,000 landings and 170,000 passengers annually, and is expected to be operational by Q1 2026. Additionally, Joby Aviation recently completed its first piloted test flights in Dubai, marking its first pre-commercial campaign outside the US. Flying at speeds up to 200 mph and capable of 160 km range, Joby secured a six-year exclusive operating agreement with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority and plans commercial service in early 2026.

Even in Abu Dhabi, in April this year, Archer Aviation secured design approval from the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to convert the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal helipad into the country’s first hybrid heliport, accelerating the move toward launching commercial electric air taxi operations in the capital.

These developments highlight the UAE’s strategic coordination on both regulatory and physical infrastructure fronts to deliver operational air taxi services by 2026.

Mubadala announces agreement to invest in Loscam International

Headquartered in Hong Kong, Loscam operates across 12 markets including Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, and Greater China

Gulf Business
Gulf Business

02 July, 2025

Mubadala announces agreement to invest in Loscam International
Image credit: WAM/Website

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Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala Investment Company has agreed to acquire a 30 per cent stake in Loscam International, a leading provider of pallet pooling and returnable packaging solutions in the Asia-Pacific region.

Read-Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund Mubadala’s assets jump 9% in 2024

Mubadala joins existing shareholders Trustar Capital—the private equity arm of CITIC Capital Holdings—FountainVest Partners, and Sinotrans Limited, a subsidiary of China Merchants Group.

Headquartered in Hong Kong, Loscam operates across 12 markets including Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, and Greater China.

The company supplies sustainable logistics and pooling solutions to major players in fast-moving consumer goods, retail, and manufacturing sectors.

Founded in 1942, Loscam has built a long-standing reputation for improving supply chain efficiency across the region.

The transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

Oil prices rise on strong demand signals ahead of OPEC+ decision

Oil’s gains were kept in check by expectations that the OPEC+ group will boost its August crude oil output

Reuters
Reuters

02 July, 2025

Oil prices rise on strong demand signals ahead of OPEC+ decision

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Oil prices edged higher on Tuesday as investors took stock of positive demand indicators, while also treading cautiously ahead of an OPEC+ meeting to decide the group‘s August output policy.

Brent crude LCOc1 settled up 37 cents, or 0.6 per cent, at $67.11 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude CLc1 settled 34 cents higher, or up around 0.5 per cent, at $65.45 a barrel.

The gains were likely due to supportive data from a private-sector survey in China, which showed factory activity returned to expansion in June, said Randall Rothenberg, a risk intelligence expert at US oil brokerage Liquidity Energy.

Expectations that Saudi Arabia will raise its August crude oil prices for buyers in Asia to a four-month high as well as firm premiums for Russian ESPO Blend crude oil were also supporting the notion of robust demand, Rothenberg said.

Oil‘s gains were kept in check by expectations that the OPEC+ group will boost its August crude oil output by an amount similar to the outsized hikes agreed in May, June, and July. Four OPEC+ sources told Reuters last week the group plans to raise output by 411,000 barrels per day next month when it meets on July 6.

“All eyes will be on OPEC+’s decision over the weekend, when the group is expected to add another 411,000 bpd of production in an effort to gain more market share, primarily over the US shale producers,” StoneX energy analyst Alex Hodes told clients.

Besides gaining market share from US shale producers, which pumped oil at a record pace in April, according to official data released on Monday, the group has also been trying to punish overproducing members.

OPEC+ member Kazakhstan, one of the world’s 10 largest oil producers, raised oil production last month to match an all-time high, a source familiar with the data told Reuters on Tuesday.

Saudi Arabia, the de facto leader of the OPEC+ group, raised its June crude oil exports to the fastest rate in a year, data from Kpler showed.

“These exports are flooding out even faster than the OPEC+ deal implies during the summer, when peak domestic demand typically keeps oil supplies closer to home,” Hodes said.

In the US, crude oil inventories rose by 680,000 barrels in the past week, according to sources citing figures from the American Petroleum Institute. Official data from the Energy Information Administration is due Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. ET. API/S

Trump and tariffs

Investors are also watching trade negotiations ahead of US President Donald Trump’s tariff deadline of July 9. Trump on Tuesday said he is not thinking of extending the deadline.

A trade deal with India was very close, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Tuesday. Trump also said the US will possibly have a deal with India, but he added that he doubts there will be a deal with Japan.

Bessent also warned countries could be notified of sharply higher tariffs despite good-faith negotiations as the July 9 deadline approaches, when tariff rates are scheduled to revert from a temporary 10 per cent level to the ones Trump announced on April 2 and then suspended.

The European Union wants immediate relief from tariffs in key sectors as part of any trade deal with the US, EU diplomats told Reuters.

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