Quick answer: Dubai Islands land — Dubai Islands (formerly Deira Islands) is a Nakheel project of five islands covering 17 sq km off the Deira coast. DLD transaction records show sales on Dubai Islands (registered area: Nakhlat Deira) registered as freehold. Check the specific plot with DLD’s Property Status Enquiry.
Key facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Emirate | Dubai |
| Master developer | Nakheel |
| Planning and building control | Trakhees (PCFC), which lists Palm Deira, the area’s former name, as one of its Special Development Zones. A Nakheel NOC comes first |
| Land registration | Dubai Land Department (DLD) |
| Ownership | DLD transaction records show sales on Dubai Islands (registered area: Nakhlat Deira) registered as freehold. Check the specific plot with DLD’s Property Status Enquiry. |
| Main land uses | Hospitality and resort plots, Residential and mixed-use plots, Retail and marina plots |
What is Dubai Islands?
Dubai Islands (formerly Deira Islands) is a Nakheel project of five islands covering 17 sq km off the Deira coast. The master plan, unveiled in August 2022, includes more than 80 resorts and hotels and more than 20 km of beaches.
This hub is an educational guide for owners, brokers, developers and institutional buyers looking at land in Dubai Islands. It explains what kind of plots exist, who controls planning and registration, and what to check before you buy. It does not quote prices: land values in Dubai Islands move with each plot’s permitted use, size and location, so check recent transactions with the registering authority before you price a deal.
What land types are available in Dubai Islands?
- Hospitality and resort plots
- Residential and mixed-use plots
- Retail and marina plots
The permitted use of any plot is set in its affection plan (site plan) and the master developer’s development control regulations. Never rely on a listing description alone: ask the seller for the current affection plan and check that the use, GFA and height match what you plan to build.
Who can buy freehold land in Dubai Islands?
DLD transaction records show sales on Dubai Islands (registered area: Nakhlat Deira) registered as freehold. Check the specific plot with DLD’s Property Status Enquiry.
Ownership rules depend on the exact plot, not just the community name. Confirm eligibility for your nationality, or for your company if you are buying through a legal entity, with the registering authority before paying a deposit.
Who is the master developer and which authorities control Dubai Islands?
- Master developer: Nakheel
- Planning and building permits: Trakhees (PCFC), which lists Palm Deira, the area’s former name, as one of its Special Development Zones. A Nakheel NOC comes first
- Registration of title: Dubai Land Department (DLD)
Most master-planned communities require a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the master developer before a plot can be transferred, and the developer’s design guidelines apply on top of municipal building rules.
What plot sizes and heights are typical in Dubai Islands?
Nakheel has not published community-wide plot sizes or height limits. Read them from the affection plan. Use the affection plan to read plot area, permitted GFA, setbacks and the G+ height limit. If figures are missing, treat the plot as unverified until the master developer confirms them in writing.
What infrastructure and access does Dubai Islands have?
Nakheel states the islands are linked to the mainland by road bridges and water transport, close to Dubai International Airport.
Who does land in Dubai Islands suit?
Hospitality developers, residential developers and investors.
How do you buy land in Dubai Islands?
- Get the affection plan and title deed (or sale contract) from the seller, and confirm the plot number with the registering authority.
- Check ownership eligibility for your nationality or company.
- Request the master developer NOC and confirm there are no outstanding service charges or dues.
- Sign the sale agreement and complete the transfer at the Dubai Land Department (DLD) or its registered trustee office.
- Apply for design approval and building permits with the planning authority before construction.
Part of the Dubai land guide. See also which authority controls what in UAE land and the UAE land glossary for terms such as affection plan, NOC and freehold.
Read more: How to buy land in the UAE, DLD fee structure and land registration, Master developer NOCs and escrow rules, Freehold vs leasehold plot laws, How to read an affection plan, GFA, FAR and plot density.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners buy land in Dubai Islands?
DLD transaction records show sales on Dubai Islands (registered area: Nakhlat Deira) registered as freehold. Check the specific plot with DLD’s Property Status Enquiry. Confirm the exact plot with the registering authority before you commit.
Who is the master developer of Dubai Islands?
Nakheel. Planning and building control sits with Trakhees (PCFC), which lists Palm Deira, the area’s former name, as one of its Special Development Zones. A Nakheel NOC comes first.
What types of plots are available in Dubai Islands?
Plots include hospitality and resort plots; residential and mixed-use plots; retail and marina plots. The affection plan sets the permitted use of each plot.
Where is land in Dubai Islands registered?
Land in Dubai Islands is registered with the Dubai Land Department (DLD). The buyer receives a title deed (or lease registration for leased plots) once the transfer is complete.
Have a question? Ask the UAE Land Deals team
Free. We reply within 1–2 working days. General information, not legal or investment advice.
Disclaimer: This guide is general information, not legal or investment advice. Rules, fees and master developer policies change; confirm current requirements with the Dubai Land Department (DLD), the master developer and a licensed UAE lawyer before transacting.
Last updated: 23 October 2026.