Branded residences, luxury homes developed in collaboration with internationally recognised brands, are reshaping the global real estate landscape. Nowhere is this trend more evident than in Dubai, which has emerged as the regional and global capital of branded living. The emirate has seen an impressive 160 per cent growth in this sector over the past decade, outpacing global competitors.
Branded residences offer more than a home, they deliver lifestyle. Originally linked to luxury hospitality groups such as Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton, the market has evolved to include a broad spectrum of global brands. Automotive titans like Mercedes-Benz and Bugatti, fashion houses like Armani and Missoni, and hospitality icons like Cipriani now lend their prestige to real estate projects.
This shift signals a growing appetite for lifestyle-centric living, where buyers not only seek comfort and exclusivity, but also brand identity and curated experiences. Developers and investors alike see value in this alignment of lifestyle and real estate.
Why Dubai leads: Strategic advantages of the city
Dubai’s rise as a global hub for branded residences is no accident. A combination of forward-thinking government policies, investor-friendly regulations, and strategic development planning has positioned the city as a magnet for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). Benefits include 100 per cent foreign ownership, zero income tax, and Golden Visas, all of which bolster Dubai’s appeal.
“High-net-worth buyers are no longer just looking for property. They’re investing in lifestyle, brand value, and long-term growth. Dubai offers all three, and that’s why it’s outperforming legacy markets like London and Miami,” said Christopher Cina, director of sales at Betterhomes.
In 2024 alone, Dubai recorded the sale of 13,000 branded residences, a 43 per cent increase year-on-year, generating Dhs60bn in transactions. This accounts for 8.5 per cent of total real estate transaction value, reflecting the segment’s growing market share. Buyers are willing to pay 40 per cent to 60 per cent premiums for branded properties compared to similar non-branded units, driven by the promise of luxury, quality, and long-term value.
Brand collaborations fuel market growth
Strategic collaborations are central to Dubai’s branded real estate boom. Developers such as Binghatti (Bugatti Residences), Arada (Armani Beach Residences), and Select Group (Six Senses Residences) have formed partnerships with globally recognised luxury brands.
Meanwhile, mega-developers like Emaar, Meraas, and Nakheel have designed entire districts centered around lifestyle brands, cementing Dubai’s place at the forefront of the sector. These partnerships enhance marketability and offer developers and investors access to premium pricing, branding power, and buyer loyalty.
(In Dirhams, Dubai buyers leading global markets with an average premium of 157 per cent for branded residences, followed by Europe at 265 per cent, Thailand at 270 per cent, and the USA at Nearly 500 per cent.- Source: Property Monitor, Knight Frank, Betterhomes Research)
Outperforming global competitors
When benchmarked against international cities like Miami, London, Phuket, and Madrid, Dubai offers a more balanced investment opportunity. While Aston Martin Residences in Miami fetch up to Dhs25,000 per square feet, Dubai’s Bvlgari Residences sell for around Dhs10,500 per square feet, offering both value and prestige. Meanwhile, Bugatti Residences are commanding a 237 per cent premium, showing Dubai can rival or even surpass international luxury benchmarks.
In contrast, cities like London impose high property taxes and complex regulations, while markets such as Spain and Thailand, although exclusive, lack the liquidity and long-term investor confidence that Dubai provides.
(Projected growth of branded residences worldwide. With 25 per cent market share by 2030, the number of projects in the region will reach over 360 developments.- Source: Betterhomes Research)
The Future: MENA and beyond
Branded residences are not just a Dubai story—they are expanding across the Middle East and North Africa. The sector is projected to account for 25 per cent of the MENA luxury residential market by 2030, with Dubai continuing to lead the charge.
With a mix of innovative branding, policy support, and investor demand, Dubai’s dominance in branded real estate shows no signs of slowing. For luxury buyers and developers alike, the emirate remains the global benchmark in this evolving sector.
In a move to enhance operational efficiency and embrace cutting-edge technology, flydubai has partnered with emaratech, a leading UAE-based tech company, to roll out smart border control solutions for its pilots and cabin crew.
The new biometric smart gates have been installed at the airline’s Airport Operations Centre and are designed to streamline immigration processes through advanced facial recognition, AI-powered verification, and real-time data integration. This technology provides a faster, more secure, and paperless experience for crew members reporting for duty.
Seamless travel experience through smart technology
Thani Alzaffin, group CEO of emaratech, said the partnership marks a major milestone in modernizing border control systems.
“We are proud to partner with flydubai in pioneering a next-generation, paperless immigration experience for their crew members,” said Alzaffin. “Through AI-powered facial recognition, our smart gates integrate seamlessly with both flydubai’s and immigration’s platforms, enabling real-time validation and a truly frictionless journey.”
He added that the initiative reflects emaratech’s broader goal to redefine border control using artificial intelligence to deliver smarter, faster, and more secure checkpoints.
Supporting operational growth and efficiency
flydubai’s chief procurement and technology officer, Mohammed Hareb AlMheiri, emphasised the importance of technology in driving operational improvements.
“We are pleased to have partnered with emaratech to implement this innovative solution for our pilots and cabin crew,” said AlMheiri. “As we continue to grow, we seek technologies that boost efficiency. These biometric smart gates represent another step toward seamless and secure operations as we future-proof our systems.”
A total of six smart biometric gates have been installed, providing direct access to immigration clearance for crew members prior to flight departures.
A growing network and workforce
The initiative is part of flydubai’s broader investment in technology to support its frontline staff and operational goals. The airline currently serves more than 135 destinations with a modern fleet of 89 aircraft. Its workforce exceeds 6,400 employees, including over 1,300 pilots and 2,500 cabin crew.
Attendees at the Gulf Business Awards 2024- File photo
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The Gulf Business Awards, the region’s premier platform for recognising excellence and innovation across industries, is back.
Scheduled for September 24, 2025, in Dubai, this prestigious event will once again honour the companies and individuals shaping the Gulf’s economic and business landscape.
For nominations, click here
For more information, click here
Now in its 13th year, the Gulf Business Awards continues to celebrate innovation, resilience, leadership, and impact across sectors ranging from banking and real estate to healthcare, technology, and tourism.
File photo
Honoring the best and brightest in business
The 2025 edition promises an evening of recognition, inspiration, and high-profile networking. Industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and executives from across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region are expected to attend the gala ceremony, where the region’s top performers will be recognised for their contributions to economic growth, technological innovation, and leadership.
“This event is more than just a ceremony — it’s a celebration of the extraordinary efforts that drive the Gulf’s vibrant business ecosystem,” said Ian Fairservice, Managing Partner and Group Editor-in-Chief of Motivate Media Group, the event’s organizer.
A platform for regional recognition
Each year, the Gulf Business Awards shines a spotlight on achievements across both the public and private sectors, offering a rare platform for industry-wide recognition. Whether it’s a startup disrupting traditional models or a conglomerate expanding regional influence, the awards represent a comprehensive celebration of business excellence.
Winners are selected by an independent panel of judges composed of regional experts, industry veterans, and editorial leadership from Gulf Business. The judging process ensures fairness, transparency, and acknowledgment of real merit.
A look back at 2024’s milestone event
Last year’s edition, held on September 24, 2024, at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), was attended by more than 300 prominent business leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs. The night celebrated outstanding achievements from companies and individuals across key sectors of the economy.
The 2024 ceremony also marked a special moment for Motivate Media Group, as it celebrated its 45th anniversary.
Among the evening’s highlights was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Mishal Kanoo, chairman of The Kanoo Group.
Recognised for his enduring contributions to the region’s commercial and philanthropic landscapes, Kanoo has long been regarded as a pioneering force in the Gulf’s business landscape.
File photo
2024 winners: A legacy of excellence
From innovative startups to established market leaders, the 2024 winners reflected the diversity and strength of the Gulf’s economy. Awardees included:
EFG Hermes ONE – Online Trading Company of the Year
ADCB – Banking Company of the Year
AIX Investment Group – Finance Advisory Company of the Year
valU – Payment Solutions Company of the Year
Amali Island by Amali Properties – Lifestyle Project of the Year
TORINO by ORO24 Developments – Best Project Delivery of the Year
fäm Properties – Real Estate Agency of the Year
Sobha Realty – Developer of the Year
Samana Barari Views – Project of the Year
PRYPCO – Proptech Company of the Year
Saudi Red Sea Authority – Tourism Company of the Year
Millennium Hotels and Resorts – Hospitality Company of the Year
Alshaya Group – Retail Company of the Year
Emirates – Transport and Logistics Company of the Year
Mediclinic Middle East – Healthcare Company of the Year
GE Vernova – Energy Company of the Year
stc Bahrain – Telecom Infrastructure Innovation
LEAP 2024 – Technology Event of the Year
These recognitions were decided by a distinguished panel that included Gareth van Zyl, Group Editor of Gulf Business; Helen Barrett, Deputy Chair of the British Business Group Dubai; Robin Joffe, Managing Director of Frost & Sullivan MEASA; and Mahmoud Bartawi, serial entrepreneur and founder.
Categories for the 2025 edition
The upcoming 2025 Gulf Business Awards will again feature a robust list of categories designed to reflect the evolving regional landscape. This year’s classifications include:
Overall awards
Lifetime Achievement
Company of the Year
Business Leader of the Year
Company awards
Banking Company of the Year
Real Estate Company of the Year
Tourism and Hospitality Company of the Year
Retail Company of the Year
Transport Company of the Year
Healthcare Company of the Year
Energy Company of the Year
Technology Company of the Year
Investment Company of the Year
Logistics Company of the Year
Leader awards
Banking Leader of the Year
Real Estate Leader of the Year
Tourism & Hospitality Leader of the Year
Retail Leader of the Year
Transport Leader of the Year
Healthcare Leader of the Year
Energy Leader of the Year
Technology Leader of the Year
Investment Leader of the Year
Logistics Leader of the Year
Editor’s choice awards
Artificial Intelligence Innovator of the Year
Blockchain Innovator of the Year
SME of the Year
Education Institution of the Year
MICE Business of the Year
These categories reflect the Gulf’s forward-looking, innovation-driven economy and will help honor those pioneering new paths in both traditional and emerging industries.
Why should you attend the event?
For entrepreneurs, executives, and decision-makers, the Gulf Business Awards offers much more than recognition. The event is a rare opportunity to network with industry peers, share insights, and build connections with regional influencers. It also serves as an excellent platform for businesses seeking to boost their credibility and brand exposure across the GCC.
With a legacy of over a decade, the Gulf Business Awards continues to play a vital role in fostering a culture of excellence and resilience among Gulf enterprises. As the region undergoes rapid transformation, events like these ensure that innovation and leadership remain at the forefront of business conversations.
Mark your calendar
The Gulf Business Awards 2025 will be held in Dubai on September 24. Nominations are open across all categories, and companies and individuals interested in being part of this prestigious recognition are encouraged to apply early.
To submit a nomination, all participants must register online. Fees apply per company or individual, per category, and vary depending on the number of nominations submitted:
1–4 categories: Dhs735 per category ($200)
5–9 categories: Dhs643 per category (minimum of 5 nominations required) ($175)
10+ categories: Dhs550 per category (minimum of 10 nominations required) ($150)
Each registration includes online entry processing and digital collateral
Please note: These fees also apply to all Leader category nominations.
Click on the registration link to submit your nomination for this year’s awards. The categories for the 2025 Awards are listed below.
Judges
This esteemed panel of judges brings extensive expertise across media, business, technology, and innovation.
With decades of leadership experience and significant regional influence, each judge contributes a unique perspective to the selection process. Their collective insight ensures a credible, forward-thinking, and excellence-driven evaluation.
Ian Fairservice
(Managing Partner and Group Editor-in-Chief, Motivate Media Group)
Ian Fairservice founded Motivate in 1979 with the launch of What’s On, the UAE’s first independent magazine. With a diverse portfolio of award-winning publications—including Gulf Business, Emirates Woman, and Identity—Motivate’s consumer and trade brands reach over 2.5 million users per month. The group’s Books division, established in 1986, has published more than 300 titles. In addition to books and magazines, Motivate produces content across video, digital media, exhibitions and events, social media, influencer marketing, out-of-home media, talent management, training, and cinema.
Mishal Kanoo
(Chairman, The Kanoo Group)
Mishal Kanoo is Chairman of The Kanoo Group, one of the Gulf region’s largest and oldest family-owned conglomerates. Operating across multiple sectors, the group is widely recognized for its longstanding contribution to the region’s economic development.
A respected business leader and futurist, Mr. Kanoo is known for his strategic foresight and economic commentary. He holds leadership roles in several companies, including Gulf Capital, KHK & Partners, Dalma Capital, Crane Industrial Services, Akzo Nobel UAE Paints, and KAAF Investments.
In 2024, he received Gulf Business‘ Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his regional impact.
Kanoo began his career within the family business before gaining experience as an auditor at Arthur Andersen in Dubai. He holds two MBAs—one in finance from the University of St. Thomas, Texas, and another from the American University of Sharjah.
Beyond business, he is a published writer in regional media and business journals, and a motivational speaker passionate about mentoring others. He upholds the Kanoo family’s legacy of excellence, integrity, and philanthropy.
Jawad Jalal Abbassi
(Head of Middle East and North Africa (MENA), GSMA)
Jawad Jalal Abbassi is Head of the MENA region at the GSMA, overseeing activities across 25 countries. He leads the GSMA’s regional advocacy and strategic programs—focusing on 5G, IoT, AI, and digital identity—working with mobile operators, regulators, and policymakers to promote sustainable mobile broadband investment.
Jawad’s team collaborates with GSMA’s global offices, engaging stakeholders to advance the mobile sector’s role in economic development. He is a frequent speaker at regional technology and communications forums.
He joined the GSMA in 2015 after founding the Arab Advisors Group in 2001, a leading research and consulting firm later partially acquired by the Arab Jordan Investment Bank. Previously, he worked as a telecoms and tech analyst with the Yankee Group and the Economist Intelligence Unit in Boston.
Jawad holds a BSc in engineering from the American University in Cairo and an MSc in information systems from the London School of Economics. He has also completed executive programs at Harvard Business School and Harvard Kennedy School.
Dr Marwan Al Zarouni
(CEO of Artificial Intelligence, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET))
Dr Marwan Al Zarouni is CEO of Artificial Intelligence at Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), leading the emirate’s AI agenda under the ‘Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence’. He is also CEO of the Dubai Blockchain Center (DBCC), placing him at the forefront of regional tech strategy.
With more than 20 years of experience in technology, digital forensics, cybersecurity, and AI, Dr Al Zarouni works closely with public and private sector stakeholders to shape forward-looking AI and blockchain policies that improve quality of life and visitor experience in Dubai. His leadership at DBCC has accelerated blockchain adoption in the UAE.
He is a founding member of both the Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) and the Artificial Intelligence Ethical Committee (AIEC), helping guide the ethical use of emerging technologies.
In 2022, CoinTelegraph named him among the top 100 influential figures in blockchain and crypto. He also served on the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on Cryptocurrencies from 2020 to 2021.
GARETH VAN ZYL
(Group Editor, Gulf Business)
Gareth van Zyl is Group Editor of Gulf Business, bringing over 15 years of experience reporting on technology and business in the UAE and South Africa. He has held senior editorial roles, including bureau chief for News24’s business section, roles at ITWeb (Africa’s largest IT publisher), and deputy editor at BizNews.com.
Earlier in his career, Gareth lived and worked in Dubai from 2008 to 2012, contributing to Windows Middle East magazine, 7DAYS newspaper, and The National.
For further information and assistance, please contact:
Wynn Resorts has released the first official details and images of Enclave, an ultra-luxury concept within its upcoming Wynn Al Marjan Island integrated resort in Ras Al Khaimah.
Slated to open in early 2027, Enclave is being positioned as a “destination within a destination,” offering elevated privacy, bespoke services, and curated luxury tailored to the region’s most sophisticated travelers.
Located atop the resort’s 300-metre tower, Enclave will feature 299 suites across four configurations, including two expansive Royal Apartments spanning 1,500 sqm.
Designed by Wynn Design & Development, in collaboration with famed design studios Anouska Hempel of London and Pinto Design of Paris, the suites aim to reflect a fusion of Middle Eastern cultural influences and Wynn’s signature elegance.
“The challenge has been to build upon our expertise in creating intimacy within grandeur and to redefine the integrated resort experience,” said Todd-Avery Lenahan, president and CEO of Wynn Design & Development. “Every dimension of our design process in creating this jewel within Wynn Al Marjan Island’s crown has been as artful and precise as cutting and polishing the facets of a rare and priceless gem.”
Enclave by Wynn Resorts
Guests arriving at Enclave will be welcomed through a guarded, private drive, leading to a dedicated lobby and salons exclusive to in-residence guests.
The suites — no more than 15 per floor — are styled in a palette of platinum, sapphire, sea mist, and gold, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf.
Each suite includes AM and PM private pantries, with bespoke amenities aligned to cultural preferences and international standards of luxury.
Key to the Enclave experience is a private pool and beach club overlooking Wynn Al Marjan’s eastern shoreline.
The secluded oasis includes three pools, tropical gardens, and beach butlers delivering on-demand dining and refreshments to guests lounging in private bungalows or cabanas.
The Enclave restaurant, located above the main lobby, will serve exclusive breakfast for guests, then transform into a Lebanese fine dining venue for lunch and dinner, led by a renowned Beirut and Paris-based restaurateur making their UAE debut.
A Lobby Lounge and Concierge Salon will offer a progression of curated services from morning coffee to champagne and cocktail evenings, echoing Wynn Las Vegas’ storied lounge culture.
Set across more than 60 hectares, Wynn Al Marjan Island will feature 1,217 resort rooms, 297 Enclave suites, 24 international dining venues, a luxury shopping esplanade, 12 pools, a 420-metre private beach, a marina for superyachts, and a yet-to-be-revealed entertainment showroom.
Wynn Al Marjan Island’s construction on track
Construction remains on track with topping out of the tower expected in late 2025.
When complete, the resort will mark Wynn’s first integrated resort in the UAE and is expected to draw international clientele from across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Wynn Resorts is listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the ticker symbol WYNN and is part of the S&P 500 Index.
In addition to its UAE expansion, the company operates luxury properties in Las Vegas, Macau, Boston, and London’s Mayfair.
As Dubai gears up for its annual Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) shopping festival, new data from Checkout.com reveals strong momentum in digital commerce, with sharp increases in online spending during the 2024 edition—and indicators of even stronger performance expected in 2025.
According to the payment solutions provider, daily digital transactions in the UAE rose by 25 per cent year-on-year during DSS 2024. Consumers also spent more per transaction, with average ticket sizes increasing by 16 per cent. Checkout.com’s own UAE processing volumes surged 44 per cent year-on-year, reflecting greater consumer trust in digital payments and a shift toward online-first retail behaviour during key seasonal campaigns.
Deals
A deeper look at the transaction data shows significant changes in consumer buying patterns. Categories such as interior furnishings, recreation, and education saw marked increases, as residents took advantage of DSS deals to renovate homes, invest in local family activities, and prepare for the academic year. Toys and sporting goods also spiked as parents sought ways to keep children engaged over the summer. The automotive sector benefited from summer-specific promotions, driving up digital activity for vehicle purchases and services.
These findings align with Checkout.com’s State of Digital Commerce in MENA 2025 report, which found that 62 per cent of UAE consumers plan to increase their online shopping in the year ahead. Furthermore, 44 per cent of shoppers said they now browse in physical stores while comparing options online.
“Dubai Summer Surprises continues to act as a key catalyst for digital commerce in the region,” said Remo Giovanni Abbondandolo, general manager for MENA at Checkout.com. “From household upgrades to family recreation and back-to-school prep, the data shows UAE consumers turning to digital channels to meet both everyday needs and high-value purchases. With the growth we’ve seen year over year, we expect 2025 to break even more records.”
As the UAE continues to lead the region in digital commerce adoption, the summer season is emerging as a critical engagement window for merchants aiming to reach a digitally savvy, convenience-driven consumer base.
ADGM Courts introduces pro bono mediators panel to support dispute resolution
ADGM Courts’ Linda Fitz-Alan said the Court-Annexed Mediation Scheme has achieved an average settlement rate of 80 per cent year on year since its inception
ADGM Courts announced the launch of its Pro Bono Mediators Panel, marking a key milestone in strengthening its Court-Annexed Mediation Scheme, introduced in 2019 as a regional first.
The initiative aims to broaden access to justice while fostering global mediation talent.
The new panel will consist of internationally accredited mediators who volunteer their services on a pro bono basis. In return, they gain practical experience handling mediations under a leading international commercial framework.
The first cohort of mediators has already been appointed, with additional application rounds to follow.
The panel supports parties seeking early, cost-effective dispute resolution within ADGM Courts’ jurisdiction and enhances mediation as a viable alternative to litigation.
“Mediation offers parties a confidential forum to negotiate the resolution of their dispute via a process during which they retain full control,” the court said in a statement.
If a written settlement agreement is reached and signed, it becomes legally binding, and in cases where proceedings are ongoing, ADGM Courts will issue an order giving effect to the settlement agreement — enforceable at the request of either party.
Mediators panel an important next step in the evolution of the scheme
Registrar and chief executive of ADGM Courts, Linda Fitz-Alan, said the Court-Annexed Mediation Scheme has achieved an average settlement rate of 80 per cent year on year since its inception.
She described the launch of the Pro Bono Mediators Panel as “an important next step” in the evolution of the scheme.
“This reflects ADGM Courts’ long-standing commitment to promoting mediation as an outstanding method of dispute resolution, especially for the new wave of disputes in technology and climate,” Fitz-Alan said.
Court-annexed mediation under ADGM Courts may be conducted either by court officers or by independent pro bono mediators appointed by the registrar.
The initiative aligns with ADGM’s broader goals of enhancing dispute resolution infrastructure and promoting efficient legal processes in Abu Dhabi’s international financial centre.
