Meraas has unveiled an expanded residential masterplan for Dubai Design District (d3), which aims to elevate d3 into one of Dubai’s key creative-led waterfront neighborhoods. The development will introduce canal-front living, cultural quarters, public green spaces, and walkable urban streets, creating a fully integrated community, the statement from Meraas said.
Located between Downtown Dubai and Dubai Creek, the enhanced masterplan spans 18m sqft of land. Designed and delivered by Meraas, the neighborhoods will blend residential, cultural, retail, and hospitality experiences.
This aligns with Dubai’s goal of solidifying its position as a global centre for design, innovation, and culture, as outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. The residential expansion responds to the growing market demand for design-led, well-connected waterfront communities, following the strong performance of recent launches and the increasing interest from both local and international buyers.
A defining feature of the new masterplan is the Design Line, a fully shaded, pedestrian-first spine that connects the entire district. Activated through public art, creative installations, community spaces, and landscaped green corridors, the Design Line supports walkable, human-centric living, the statement explained.
The masterplan also strives for LEED Silver community certification, emphasising sustainable mobility, enhanced connectivity, energy-efficient design, and integration with natural landscapes, including visual links to Dubai Creek and the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, it added.
The first area along the canal will introduce contemporary residences and boutique hospitality, set against an activated waterfront promenade. The urban core aims to unite residential offerings with curated retail and dining, integrated with d3’s established global creative ecosystem.
A third area will become the cultural heart of the community, featuring performance venues and mid-rise residences overlooking the d3 Bowl. Another area will offer a wellness-focused residential setting, defined by parks, sports facilities, and a mangrove-inspired landscape. Finally, the final area will become a center for creativity, with galleries, studios, and loft-style spaces designed to support collaboration, creativity, and artistic production.
Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate said, “Expanding the Dubai Design District masterplan into a fully integrated creative neighbourhood is a significant step in advancing the ambitions of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. This development strengthens Dubai Design District’s position as a global benchmark for design-focused urban living and reaffirms Dubai’s status as a destination of choice for long-term investment, talent and innovation.”
The momentum around the district continues to build. Meraas’ recent residential releases at d3 have garnered demand, with the sell-out of Atelis, a 280-unit waterfront tower, and the launch of The Edit, a three-tower development offering 557 design-led homes, the statement concluded.
