How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai?

PART 1: INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD ISLANDS DUBAI

What Are The World Islands?

Imagine a world where each country is its own island — literally. Dubai brought this vision to life with The World Islands: an archipelago of 300 man-made islands laid out like a map of the world, just a few kilometers off the city’s coast.

From the moment it was announced, people began asking, “How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai?” The answer, as of 2025, reflects the scale, luxury, and uniqueness of the project. but on average, 1 island costs around 1 billion AED, around 367 million USD.

Whether you’re an investor, visionary, or ultra-luxury buyer, understanding how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai has become essential in evaluating high-end real estate opportunities.

These islands are no longer speculative — they’re rising. And fast.

Who Developed The World Islands?

The mastermind behind the project is Nakheel, one of the region’s most prominent developers. Their vision: to create the most exclusive and imaginative waterfront experience in the world.

But before diving into project details, you need to understand how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai, what types of properties are available, and whether it’s a move worth making now.

What Makes These Islands Unique?

Unlike other real estate projects, The World Islands offer an ownership opportunity you won’t find anywhere else:

Complete privacy
Island-level brand control
No competitors on your island
Full design freedom
Access by boat, yacht, or air

It’s also why people constantly ask: How much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai? Because with exclusivity comes a price — but also the chance to create something unforgettable.

Price Breakdown (2025 Update)

Let’s tackle the main question head-on: How much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai? We know islands cost 1 billion AED, but what about villas and apartments prices in the world islands in Dubai?

1. Villas and Private Islands

Entry Point: AED 36.5 million
High End: AED 125 million ( Sweden Palaces ).
Average Asking Price: AED 65.8 million

Prices are influenced by island size, location, development stage, and surrounding attractions. For instance, islands near the “Europe” or “Asia” cluster tend to command a premium.

It’s not just a home. It’s a destination. That’s why understanding how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai is step one before you even consider a viewing.

Why Are People Buying Now?

1. Scarcity & Timing

There are only 300 islands. No more will ever be made. Each time one is developed or sold, the remaining inventory becomes more valuable.

As more investors realize this, the question isn’t just how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai, but how much it will cost next year.

2. Dubai’s Global Growth

Dubai continues to attract global wealth. With new visa options, tax benefits, and world-class infrastructure, there’s increased demand for ultra-exclusive experiences — and what’s more exclusive than owning a private island?

And again, if you’ve ever wondered how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai, you’re likely the type of visionary Dubai welcomes with open arms.

Different Types of Investment Options

Full Island Purchase

Ideal for investors or developers who want total control, brand their own island, or build ultra-luxury villas or resorts.

Price range: AED 1 Billion – AED 4 Billion but here is a thought, you do not really pay the full amount here. You pay 20% down payment and you start developing. That is only if you want to develop properties on it then sell the properties to other investors.

So, island will cost 20% : 200 million

Development on it let us assume you build a four story hotel on it and costs in general 300 million which is way above market price but let us assume for the sake of the argument.

You will need a budget upfront of 200 millions for the island and 60 millions for the hotel to start the paperwork with Dubai land department and start selling. Again, if you need assistance with more detailed breakdown, contact Abu Nahyan WhatsApp.

You’ll need to be well-capitalized, but for buyers asking how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai, this is the gold standard.

Hotel Apartments

Want a piece of the action without full ownership?

You can invest in branded hotel apartments on themed islands. Prices start from AED 1.2M in The Artist Hotel and AED 2.2M in Marbella Resort — a Mediterranean-inspired beachfront experience.

This is perfect for buyers exploring how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai while generating passive income from tourism.

Abu Nahyan has a premium offer here with 10% ROI for 10 years guaranteed by contracted and attested by Dubai Land Department. Also, a buy back option after 12 years ( optional ) and for the sake of the agreement between us and the Kleindienst group, there is also another offer that is stronger than both but can not mention it here for the sake of respecting the privacy with our partners. However, the offer will shock you. Contact Abu Nahyan only if you are serious about this.

Floating Villas – An Unmatched Lifestyle

The World Islands are home to some of Dubai’s most innovative properties — floating villas with underwater bedrooms, jacuzzis on the sea, and full smart home systems.

These properties may not come with island ownership, but the experience is second to none.

Investors ask, how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai, but this category gives a chance to live like an island owner without the land price tag.

What’s Completed, What’s Coming?

Already Completed:

Lebanon Island (events, restaurants, beach clubs)
Sea Horse Floating Villas
Voco Côte d’Azur Resort
Sweden Palaces (final touches in 2025)
Honeymoon Island by IHG (almost done)
The Artist hotel is almost there
Marbella is almost there
Portofino is almost there
Floating villas ae done
German islands are almost done

For those evaluating how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai, these developments prove the concept has matured and is now functioning.

Under Construction (2026+):

Switzerland island

Each of these will raise the overall value of the archipelago — meaning the answer to how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai is expected to rise soon.

The ROI Equation: How Investors Are Making Money from the World Islands

Many potential investors ask one critical question early on:
How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai?
But what they should also be asking is:
How much can it earn me in return?

Let’s break down the income-generating potential of investing in The World Islands.

1. Hotel Income – Passive Returns with Guaranteed Tenants

Projects like The Artist Hotel offer buyers the chance to own a hotel-managed apartment. These units start at AED 1.2M and are placed into a rental pool managed by a hospitality operator.

No hassle of tenant management
Fixed annual rental returns (8.33% – 10%)
Fully furnished, turnkey units
Luxury branding and demand appeal
14 day free stay a year
Discounted prices with Abu Nahyan only (Exclusive offers)

So if you’re considering how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai, this type of asset allows you to enter the market affordably while earning solid ROI with none of the management headaches.

2. Luxury Rentals – Premium Daily Rates

Once an island or villa is complete, the property can be rented out for:

Exclusive events
Corporate buyouts
Honeymoon escapes
High-net-worth vacationers

Average nightly rates for such properties can reach AED 8,000 to AED 40,000 depending on the size, branding, and amenities.

This is where the answer to how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai becomes less important than how fast it pays itself back.

3. Value Appreciation – Strategic Holding

In 2015, many questioned whether the project would ever be completed. Today in 2025, completed islands are selling and new ones are breaking ground with so much higher prices. So the question is, Am i Late? Maybe.

Investors who secured properties back then saw their assets grow by:

20% to 40% pre-completion
Even higher for islands near operational zones like Lebanon or Côte d’Azur or Marbella.

Ask yourself: How much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai today, and how much could it be worth when the final 50 islands are developed?

The appreciation potential is not theoretical — it’s historical. You are not LATE yet. But taking more time will make you lose money and miss out heavily.

Ownership Laws and Security

When dealing with high-value real estate, legal security matters.

Foreign Ownership Rights

Yes, foreign nationals can legally own property on The World Islands.

You get:

Full freehold ownership
Title deed issued by Dubai Land Department
The same protection as any Dubai property buyer

So the next time you wonder how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai, know that the process is protected and transparent under UAE property law.

Inheritance & Transfer

Ownership can be passed on through will, inheritance, or corporate holding. The DLD allows properties to be held in trusts or offshore entities.

High-net-worth individuals not only ask how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai, but also how secure it is across generations. The answer is: very secure. Backed by Dubai government recent data.

Lifestyle: Living on Your Own Island

It’s not just about return on investment. It’s about return on lifestyle.

Here’s what life looks like when you own a villa or hotel apartment on The World Islands:

1. Complete Privacy

No cars. No neighbours unless you want them. Just you, the sea, and the skyline.

2. Events & VIP Access

Owners receive:

Invitations to exclusive parties
Yacht access between islands
Helicopter service to the mainland
Private dinners by celebrity chefs

3. Eco-Inspired Architecture

Properties on The World are designed with:

Solar power
Sustainable cooling
Coral reef preservation
Water recycling and desalination systems
Raining street
Snowing plaza

Even the floating villas are built to be marine-safe.

So if sustainability matters to you — when you ask how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai, know that it includes conscious development.

The Psychological Edge: Owning the Unownable

Let’s be honest — most real estate markets offer predictable outcomes.
But The World Islands are different.

You’re not just buying bricks and land — you’re buying legacy, storytelling, status, and emotion.

When people ask you:

“Where’s your property?”
You get to say:
“I own an island.”

That’s the answer that sells. And that’s why so many ask how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai — because ownership here is a statement.

Why Work with Abu Nahyan & Atlantis Real Estate?

When making such a high-stakes investment, guidance matters. That’s where Abu Nahyan — awarded CEO and senior consultant — steps in.

Atlantis Real Estate is recognized as the Best Independent Luxury Brokerage in Dubai 2025.

how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai

We offer:

VIP experience tours
Direct island access
Private inspections
Investor negotiation strategies
Full DLD process completion
Golden visa gift (selective)
Investor visa gift (selective)
ID, insurance, medical checks for free
Bank account opening
Private exclusive properties
Body guards (selective)
Business setup
A to Z assistance

Market Timing: When Is the Best Time to Buy a World Island?

Timing is everything in real estate, especially in a market as unique as The World Islands. With developments accelerating and investor interest rising, the question is no longer just How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai?, but when should you strike?

Here’s why 2025 and the next 12–24 months could be the most strategic window to enter this rare market.

1. We’re in a Rebirth Phase

The World Islands project initially launched in the 2000s, but construction slowed post-2008. Since 2021, however, there’s been a rapid comeback, with billions poured into infrastructure and completion.

Every time a major hotel like Côte d’Azur or the Sweden Palaces opens, it increases the overall valuation of the surrounding islands.

This means the answer to How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai? today will not be the same in 2026.

Prices will go up. Inventory will shrink. Entry points will close.

2. Developers Are Racing to Finish Before Expo Legacy Projects Peak

Dubai’s post-Expo 2020 infrastructure boom is in full swing. From the Dubai Metro Blue Line to upgraded marine transport and tourism initiatives, everything is aligned for a high-growth decade.

Buying now means you ride the appreciation curve before The World becomes fully commercialized. Once fully matured, those still asking How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai? may find the price has tripled as per market indicators.

The Appreciation Trajectory

Let’s analyze pricing movements and what they suggest about future gains.

Current Entry Points

Hotel Apartments (Artist Hotel): AED 1.2M – AED 1.8M
Marbella Resort Suites: AED 2.2M – AED 5M
Floating Villas: AED 20M – AED 28M ( SOLD OUT )
Full Private Islands: AED 1B – AED 4B

Buyers must also consider what similar properties on Palm Jumeirah or Bluewaters now fetch — often 40–70% higher after completion and handover.

Projected Appreciation (Next 5 Years)

Property Type	Entry 2025 Price	Estimated Value by 2030	Projected Gain
Artist Hotel Unit	AED 1.2M	AED 2M	+66%
Marbella Suite	AED 2.2M	AED 3.6M	+63%
Floating Villa	AED 21M	AED 33M	+57%
Private Island	AED 1B	AED 2B	+100%

What’s Still Coming?

Buyers frequently ask if the project is finished. The answer? Not yet — and that’s a good thing.

Here’s what’s coming soon:

London Island: Foggy weather tech, red bus lounges, UK pubs, canal-style water taxis
Portofino Hotel: Family-themed Italian luxury, vibrant marina, kid-focused villas
Tropical Rain & Snow Streets: Climate-controlled roads that make weather an experience
Dubai’s Largest Swimming Pool: A megastructure pool visible from satellite
Signature Restaurants on the Water: Floating fine-dining experiences

These aren’t dreams. They’re under construction. And every new opening drives higher demand — and higher answers to How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai?

Investor Profiles: Who Is Buying?

Understanding who owns these islands helps you predict where the market is headed.

1. Royal Families and Government Figures

Several islands are already owned by Middle Eastern royalty and dignitaries. Privacy, prestige, and long-term wealth protection are key drivers. For them, asking How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai? is less about numbers and more about legacy.

2. Global Brands

Hospitality giants, fashion labels, and wellness chains are acquiring islands to expand their identity. Imagine a Gucci-branded spa island or a private Tesla-themed tech retreat.

For these brands, knowing How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai? helps plan their global expansion.

3. Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals (UHNWIs) & Regular Investors

These are private investors who want rare, passive-income assets. They focus on:

Boutique hotels
Wedding islands
Wellness retreat centers
Guaranteed ROI

How to Structure a World Island Purchase

It’s not like buying a regular villa in Downtown Dubai.

Here’s how the acquisition process works:

Step 1: Consultation

Engage with a specialist like Abu Nahyan, who has exclusive access to live inventory and off-market listings.

Step 2: Project Selection

Choose:

Hotel units (Artist, Marbella, London…)
Floating Villas
Full raw islands (residential/commercial)

Step 3: Investment Structuring

You can buy under:

Personal name (UAE resident/non-resident)
Offshore structure
Investment fund
Family trust
Company

This ensures asset protection. So when buyers ask How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai?, we help them pair that answer with how to structure it for maximum safety and benefit.

Off-Plan vs Ready Units – Pros & Cons

Off-Plan:
✅ Lower entry price
✅ Customization freedom
✅ Strong capital appreciation
✅Lower initial price
✅ Trusted developers only are getting in the World Islands and not all.
✅ Wait time from 1 year to 2 years but outstanding results

Ready Units:
✅ Immediate use but what is the point if developers are offering immediate returns with off plan too like Marbella. Get a hold of Abu Nahyan for this offer.
✅ Known quality
✅ No construction risk
❌ Higher initial price
❌ Less flexibility

Depending on whether you want ROI, lifestyle, or branding, the answer to How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai? will vary — and so will the strategy.

Ownership Duration and Resale Liquidity

Can I Resell?

Yes. Islands and units can be resold through DLD-regulated channels. Abu Nahyan can do it too having a large data base of investors.

Is There a Holding Period?

Some off-plan contracts require a minimum paid percentage of 40%. Others can be flipped immediately.

So when you calculate How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai?, also ask:

When can I exit?
Who will buy from me?
What appreciation is realistic?

The right advisor will position your asset for both yield and exit success.

Work with the Island Experts

Only a few real estate professionals in Dubai specialize in World Island sales. Abu Nahyan, founder and awarded CEO of Atlantis Real Estate, is one of them.

Why Atlantis Real Estate?

Winner of Dubai’s Best Independent Luxury Real Estate Brokerage 2025
Full access to every project on The World
Direct developer relationships
Golden visa support
High-ticket investor matching
Personal showings via helicopter or yacht

The Financial Playbook for World Island Buyers

Luxury is one thing — but smart investors look deeper. When asking How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai?, high-net-worth individuals want more than a price tag. They want clarity on return, risk, yield, and exit.

This part breaks down the financial tools, metrics, and structures used by top-tier investors to evaluate opportunities on The World Islands.

1. Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) Breakdown

CAPEX is your upfront cost to develop an island or complete a hotel unit purchase. This goes beyond the sticker price.

Example: Full Island Villa Development

But keep in mind that these costs are not going to be paid all at once.

For example, island purchase price, construction, and electricity can be covered gradually from starting to sell the hotel for instance. Get a hold of Abu Nahyan for a free feasibility study.

2. Net Operating Income (NOI)

Asset Type	Units	Sale Price/Unit	Total Revenue	Build Cost/Unit	Total Build Cost	Net Profit
Hotel Units	80	AED 3M	AED 240M	AED 1.5M	AED 120M	AED 120M
Retail Units	10	AED 3M	AED 30M	AED 1.5M	AED 15M	AED 15M
Total	90	—	AED 270M	—	AED 135M	✅ AED 135M

Expense	Revised Max Estimated Cost
Island Purchase Price	AED 1 billion
Design & Master Planning	AED 2 million
Construction (total)	AED 150 million
Marine Access Infrastructure	AED 3 million
Utilities (power, desalination)	AED 50 million
Permits & DLD Registration	AED 6 million
Contingency (10%)	AED 121.1 million
✅ Total CAPEX	✅ AED 1.3321 billion

Metric	Value (AED)
Total CAPEX	1.3321 billion
Total Revenue from Unit Sales (90)	AED 270 million
Net Profit from Sales	✅ AED 135 million
Annual Gross Rental Revenue	AED 86.16 million
Annual Operating Expenses	AED 30.15 million
✅ Annual NOI from Rental Ops	✅ AED 56.01 million
Monthly NOI	AED 4.67 million
CAPEX Recovery from Sales	20.3%
Long-Term Income Retention	100%

What This Means for the Investor

You spend AED 1.3321 billion total
You recover AED 270 million from sales
You earn AED 56M NOI yearly by operating units post-handover
Your net CAPEX exposure drops to just over AED 1.06B
Yield on exposed capital: 5.27%

However, average in Dubai is 7%. This table above is for illustration only. Once you are ready, we will send you a detailed free feasibility study that will be very very precise.

3. Internal Rate of Return (IRR)

The IRR calculates your true return over time, accounting for cash flow and exit value.

IRR Scenario

Metric	Value (AED)
Net Invested Capital (after presales)	1.1971 billion
Annual NOI (Years 1–5)	56.01 million
Total NOI over 5 years	280.05 million
Exit Sale in Year 6	✅ AED 1.965 billion
Achieved IRR	✅ 12.01%

Understanding IRR helps buyers shift from “How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai?” to “How hard can my capital work for me here?”

4. Cash-on-Cash Return

This metric is critical for investors using partial finance, limited equity, or capital partners. It evaluates how much actual cash you earn back annually relative to the cash you invested.

✅ Example (Based on Full Island Development):

Cash Invested: AED 1.2 billion (after deducting AED 270M recovered from unit sales)
Annual NOI from operations: AED 56.01 million
Cash-on-Cash Return: (56.01M / 1.2B) × 100 = ✅ 4.67%

This is a solid base yield — but what truly elevates this strategy is the exit sale at Year 6 for AED 1.965 billion, bringing the IRR to 12%.

So when investors ask How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai?, they should also ask:

“How much can my cash earn, and when do I want to exit?”

5. Break-Even Analysis

For investors building branded hotel-resort units and managing them on Airbnb, Agoda, or Booking.com:

Total CAPEX: AED 1.33 billion
Annual NOI: AED 56.01 million
Break-even (no resale): 1.33B / 56.01M ≈ 23.7 years

But with a planned exit at Year 6 for AED 1.965 billion, you’re not just breaking even — you’re unlocking significant profit.

That’s why smart buyers no longer ask How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai?
They ask:

“How quickly can I recover and reinvest?”

6. Rental Yield vs. Global Markets

To put your World Island investment in perspective, compare gross yields across other global luxury hotspots:

Location	Average Gross Yield (%)
Dubai (Short-Term Rentals)	12% – 15%
Dubai (Long-Term Rentals)	5% – 8%
London Prime	4.12% – 5.34%
Paris CBD	4.70%
New York Manhattan	2% – 3%

So when evaluating How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai?, understand you’re getting above-market returns for a globally unique, branded, high-demand location.

7. Comparative Price-Per-Sqft Analysis

Here’s how The World Islands stack up versus other iconic Dubai destinations:

Location	Avg Price/Sqft (AED)
The World (Hotel Unit)	AED 2,600 – 3,100
Palm Jumeirah Villas	AED 4,700 – 6,300
JBR High-Rises	AED 2,100 – 2,700
Bluewaters Island	AED 4,200 – 5,600

Buyers asking How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai? should realize the price per square foot remains exceptionally competitive — especially considering the exclusivity, control, and resale positioning of a private island.

8. Leverage & Financing Tools

While most full island purchases are completed in cash or institutional equity, investors looking at individual units or clusters can still apply various financing tools, including:

✅ Private lender mortgages
✅ Developer post-handover payment plans
✅ Islamic finance (Sharia-compliant structures)
✅ Offshore collateral-backed loans
✅ Equity syndication / REIT-style pooling
✅ Preferred shares or convertible debt instruments for investors in your holding SPV

Even bulk buyers exploring How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai? should assess how to optimize capital, not just deploy it.

9. Exit Strategy Options

Any investor who buys needs a clear exit path. Here are 5 smart exits:

Asset Sale after value appreciation (3–5 years)
REIT Contribution once operational income is established
Brand Franchise Sale (e.g., turning island into branded hotel and exiting)
Equity Partnership Exit (selling majority or minority stakes)
Legacy Asset Hold with ROI dividends and family succession

So before asking How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai?, ask: what’s my exit, and who will buy from me next?

Emotional ROI: The Intangible Value

Not all returns are financial. Island ownership brings:

Recognition and legacy
Exclusive family retreats
Unique branding opportunities
Stories no one else can tell
Access to a rare community of elite global owners

That’s why when someone asks How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai?, your answer should always include more than just AED numbers — include lifestyle and prestige.

Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Investment in Luxury and Exclusivity

Owning a piece of The World Islands is more than a real estate investment; it’s a statement of prestige and a gateway to unparalleled luxury. As we’ve explored, the costs associated with purchasing property here vary widely, influenced by factors such as property type, location within the archipelago, and the level of customization.

Beyond the purchase price, potential investors should consider additional costs such as maintenance, staffing, and transportation logistics. However, the return on investment, both financially and in terms of lifestyle, can be substantial.

If you’re ready to explore this unparalleled opportunity further, reach out to our expert:

Abu Nahyan
Awarded CEO and Senior Consultant
📞 +971557377447
📧 [email protected]

With extensive experience in the Dubai luxury real estate market, Abu Nahyan can provide personalized guidance to help you navigate the complexities of purchasing property on The World Islands.

FAQS: How Much Does It Cost to Buy a World Island in Dubai?

Can I Build Anything on World Islands in Dubai?

Yes and no. Each island has a designated use — residential, resort, mixed-use. Once you align with zoning rules, your design can be as creative as your budget allows.

Developers asking how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai also want creative freedom. And here, it’s encouraged.

What’s the Maintenance Like in Dubai World Islands?

Each island owner or operator is responsible for:

Infrastructure
Utilities (water, electricity, sewage)
Staff housing (sometimes offshore)
Landscaping and waste disposal

This adds to your running cost, so while the answer to how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai might start at AED 49.5M, there’s also ongoing upkeep. However, ROI offsets these costs for smart operators.

What About Access in Dubai World Islands?

Access is typically via:

Private yacht
Scheduled boat service
Helicopter landing pad
Seaplane for luxury clients

Buyers interested in how much does it cost to buy a World Island in Dubai often need to consider transportation plans, especially for guest-driven resorts.

1- What Happened to World Islands Dubai?

2- 10% Guaranteed ROI for 10 Years in Dubai: Once in a Lifetime Chance

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