History and founding of Emaar Properties
Emaar Properties is synonymous with luxury, innovation and monumental development projects on a global scale. Founded in 1997 by visionary Mohamed Alabbar, the company has transformed the skyline of Dubai and other cities worldwide, creating some of the most recognizable structures of the 21st century.
In 2000, Emaar Properties debuted on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM), becoming the first development company to open its capital to foreign investors, allowing them to own up to 20% of shares. This groundbreaking step initiated an era of international interest in Dubai's real estate market.
Emaar is not just a developer - it is a lifestyle creator that defines modern standards of urban living. The company is a leader in residential real estate, shopping centers, hotels and entertainment facilities.
Key milestones
Vision and mission
Emaar's corporate vision is to be the most admired and innovative real estate developer in the world, creating sustainable communities and delivering exceptional value for all stakeholders.
Design excellence - exceptional aesthetics and highest quality of construction
Timely delivery - known for meeting project completion deadlines
Innovation - implementing the latest technologies and solutions
Sustainable development - eco-friendly solutions minimizing environmental impact
Customer orientation - resident and investor satisfaction as top priority
Key projects and achievements
Emaar Properties is responsible for some of the most iconic structures and projects in the world.
Burj Khalifa - the world's tallest building
Opened on January 4, 2010, Burj Khalifa is the world's tallest building at 828 meters. In March 2024, it received the prestigious LEED Platinum certification, confirming Emaar's commitment to sustainable construction.
The Dubai Mall - global center of commerce and entertainment
Opened in 2008, The Dubai Mall is the second largest shopping center in the world. With over 1,200 stores and 200 restaurants, it was visited by 105 million people in 2023. In 2024, Emaar announced a AED 1.5 billion expansion with 240 new stores.
Dubai Fountain - the world's largest choreographed fountain
Spanning 275 meters in length, the fountain uses 6,600 lights and 25 color projectors, shooting water up to 152 meters high. It is one of the most photographed landmarks in Dubai.
Dubai Opera
The UAE's first dedicated opera house, opened in 2016. This 2,000-seat concert hall is the center of culture and arts in Dubai, hosting world-class performances.
Communities and districts
Emaar Properties creates fully integrated communities. Since 2002, the company has delivered over 34,500 residential units, and according to JLL, approximately 22% of all residential properties in Dubai are in Emaar-created communities.
Downtown Dubai
Vibrant urban center with luxury apartments, access to Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain.
Dubai Marina
Emaar's first project - a 3km district along an artificial marina with luxury apartments and recreational facilities.
Arabian Ranches
Private, family-oriented community spanning 1,650 acres with an 18-hole championship golf course and Dubai Equestrian & Polo Club.
Dubai Hills Estate
First phase of Mohammed Bin Rashid City - 2,700 acres with Dubai Hills Mall, 18-hole golf course and two metro lines.
Dubai Creek Harbour
Multi-purpose 1,480-acre project with 9 districts, future site of Dubai Creek Tower.
The Valley
Community along the Dubai-Al Ain road with green spaces and vibrant Town Centre.
Emaar Beachfront
Premier gated waterfront community with pristine beaches, restaurants and yacht clubs.
Emaar South
Project encompassing 22,700 residential units across 6.7 million m² with an 18-hole championship golf course.
International expansion
Emaar Properties operates across 36 different markets with 60 subsidiaries. In 2024, international operations recorded sales worth AED 4.1 billion, a 40% increase year-over-year.
| Region | Key projects |
|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia | Jeddah Gate, Emaar Residences Makkah |
| Egypt | Uptown Cairo, Marassi |
| India | Urban Oasis Gurgaon, Commonwealth Games Village |
| Turkey | Tuscan Valley, Emaar Square |
| Pakistan | Panorama, The Views Karachi |
| Jordan | Samarah Dead Sea Resort |
| Morocco | Amelkis Resorts Marrakech |
Awards and recognition
Emaar Properties consistently ranks at the top of industry rankings and receives recognition from international institutions.
- Developer of the Year - Arabian Business Achievement Awards 2024
- Sustainable Facility Management Organization of the Year - MENA Green Building Awards 2024
- LEED Platinum Certification - Burj Khalifa (March 2024)
- Forbes Travel Guide 5-Star Ratings - Address Istanbul, Address Beach Resort, Armani Hotel Dubai
- FM Mobilisation of the Year - Address Grand Creek Harbour (2023)
- Most Unique Visitor Attraction - Skyviews Observatory (MENALAC 2023)
Guinness World Records
- 2022 - The Storm Coaster: world's fastest vertical-launch roller coaster
- 2017 - World's largest LED illumination on a building facade - Burj Khalifa (70,000 LED panels)
- 2015 - World's most-watched New Year's Eve event - Burj Khalifa light show
Financial results and growth prospects
2024 was the most successful year in Emaar Properties' history, with record results across all key metrics.
| Metric | Value (AED) | Y-o-Y Change |
|---|---|---|
| Property sales | 70 billion | +72% |
| Total revenue | 35.5 billion | +33% |
| Revenue backlog | 110+ billion | +55% |
| Dubai Mall visitors | 111 million | +6% |
| Project launches | 62 | +56% |
| International sales | 4.1 billion | +40% |
Sustainability and social responsibility
Emaar Properties is deeply committed to sustainability, actively implementing eco-friendly solutions and innovative technologies.
- LEED Platinum certification for Burj Khalifa (March 2024)
- 12 Emaar Hospitality hotels with Green Key certificates (Q1 2025)
- Solar panels utilized across Emaar facilities
- Water conservation systems implemented in development projects
- Dubai Trolley - world's first hydrogen-powered, zero-emission hop-on-hop-off tram
- Emaar Foundation - coordinating CSR: education, healthcare, community development
- Sustainable Facility Management Organization of the Year (MENA Green Building Awards 2024)
Investing in Emaar properties
Investing in Emaar Properties is synonymous with securing lucrative returns, thanks to excellent locations, top-quality design and strong developer reputation.
Why invest in Emaar Properties
- Renowned developer with proven track record of delivering top-quality projects on time
- Prime locations in the most desirable districts of Dubai and the world
- Comprehensive amenities: parks, shopping centers, recreational facilities
- Strong financial performance translating to investment confidence
- High rental potential with strong tenant demand
- Flexible payment plans including post-handover options
- Freehold ownership for foreigners in most projects
- Over 109,000 residential units delivered since 2002
Property types
Apartments
From studios to 5-bedroom units in low, mid and high-rise buildings. Prices from approximately AED 1.3M for 1-bedroom.
Townhouses
Mainly 3-5 bedroom, in gated suburban communities with full infrastructure.
Villas
From 3 to 5+ bedrooms, offering more space and privacy in gated communities.
Penthouses
Luxury units on the highest floors with exceptional views of the Dubai skyline.
Want to explore the latest Emaar property offerings? Our experts will help you choose the best investment tailored to your budget and goals.
Ask about Emaar propertiesThe future of Emaar Properties
Emaar continues its mission of creating exceptional living experiences through ambitious projects and innovative solutions.
Dubai Creek Tower
Tower designed to surpass Burj Khalifa as the world's tallest building (designed by Santiago Calatrava).
The Heights Country Club
Large-scale wellness community - 81 million sq ft with planned development value of AED 55 billion.
The Oasis
Ultra-luxury villas offering dream living in an exclusive setting.
Dubai Mall Expansion
AED 1.5 billion investment in expansion with 240 new retail and dining outlets.
Emaar South Townhouses
Latest townhouses combining local character with international perspective.
Pre-purchase checklist for Emaar properties
- 1Verify project status and registration with Dubai Land Department / Dubai REST
- 2Confirm escrow account and payment schedule
- 3Analyze estimated service charges and what they cover
- 4Compare realistic rental rates in the specific building and area
- 5Evaluate unit advantages: layout, view, floor, orientation
- 6Check handover plan and acceptance stages
- 7Verify if the building allows short-term rental
- 8Analyze competition: how many similar units are in the area
- 9Establish exit scenarios: resale vs. continued rental
- 10Consult with a broker for profitability calculations
Need help verifying an Emaar property? Our team will guide you through every step - from unit selection to transaction completion.
Schedule a free consultationGlossary
FAQ - Frequently asked questions about Emaar Properties
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Ask a questionSummary
Emaar Properties is much more than a real estate developer - it is a visionary that has shaped Dubai's skyline for nearly three decades. With record financial results in 2024, a portfolio of over 109,000 delivered units and a land bank exceeding 1.7 billion square feet, Emaar remains one of the most valued developers in the world.
Interested in investing in Emaar properties? Contact us - we'll help you choose the best property and calculate profitability.
Contact UsSources and verification (E-E-A-T)
- • Emaar Properties PJSC - official annual reports and Q1 2025 quarterly report.
- • Dubai Financial Market (DFM) - EMAAR stock data.
- • Dubai Land Department - property registration and sales data.
- • Forbes Travel Guide - Emaar Hospitality hotel ratings.
- • Guinness World Records - records related to Emaar projects.
- • JLL Research - Dubai residential market report.