Construction begins on Arabian Ranches

Construction has begun on the commercial and retail elements for Emaar Properties' 2,700-acre upscale Arabian Ranches development with the first residents expected to move in this year.

There are over 1,500 residential units on the development on the outskirts of Dubai. They are made up of one and two-storey single family homes of 3,165 to 5,308 square feet.

A "significant" portion of the interest for the villas, which are available on freehold, has come from overseas. More than 85 per cent of the units, which have been on sale only in the past six months, have been taken up.

There will also be a boutique hotel within the development, although details are yet to be finalised.

The entire development is expected to be completed within the next five years. "In a very short period of time, we have been able to transform a stretch of desert into what will be one of Dubai's prime attractions," said Robert Booth, executive director of Emaar Properties.

"What we have done with the project is to make it attractive for those seeking top-class, international standard equestrian and golfing pursuits, coupled with a residential component.
"In time, people will realise that the Arabian Ranches is one of Dubai's best kept secrets."

There are two lifestyle types open to residents. Those in the Gazelle will be part of a 150-acre themed villa community development with three gated communities. Units here are priced at Dh448,888 upwards.

The Savannah, due for completion in August next year, offers residents a golfing and equestrian ambience on 79 acres. There will be 222 villas on this part of the development and prices will start at Dh1.12 million to Dh1.41 million for a three-bedroom unit and Dh1.54 million to Dh3.29 million for five bedrooms.

The development is being marketed extensively at the Arabian Travel Market. "Our theme is that it will be a great neighbourhood to be in," said Booth.

"At the rate Dubai has been growing in the recent past, projects such as the Arabian Ranches and Dubai Marina fit in perfectly into the wider masterplan for the country."