The World Islands
Private islands off the coast, shaped like a map of the world.
Living in The World Islands
The World Islands is a group of around 300 man made islands about four kilometres off the coast of Dubai, arranged in the shape of a map of the world. Most islands are privately owned, and only some have been developed so far.
The most advanced project is the Heart of Europe, with hotels, beach clubs and holiday homes. Life here is all about privacy, the sea and the view back to the skyline, and the islands can only be reached by boat or seaplane.
Each island has its own owner, so plans differ from one to the next. Some are being turned into resorts and beach clubs, while others remain empty sand. Visitors often come for a day at a beach club or a night in a hotel, and owners use their homes mostly as holiday or weekend retreats.
Property types
Holiday homes, beach villas and hotel apartments on developed islands, plus private islands sold as land. Most projects are still being built.
Best for
Buyers who want a unique holiday home or private island, and long term investors.
Prices in 2026
Typical ranges for 2026, based on Dubai Land Department transactions and developer price lists. Few homes are complete, and most are used as holiday homes rather than long term rentals.
Holiday apartment
Around AED 1.5 to 4 million to buy
Beach villa
Around AED 6 to 15 million to buy
Private island
Priced on request
For investors
The World Islands are a niche market. Values depend heavily on the island, the developer and how far the project has progressed, and resale demand is narrower than on the mainland.
Access by boat and the stage of building affect both use and value. We look closely at the project, the delivery record and the running costs before you commit.
Buyers here are usually looking for a unique holiday home or a long term land holding rather than rental income. Before you commit, we check the developer, how much of the project is finished, the boat access arrangements and the yearly running costs, which can be higher than on the mainland.
For families
The islands suit holidays and weekend stays more than daily family life, since schools, shops and offices are all on the mainland.
Families who own homes here usually live on the mainland and visit at weekends and during school holidays.
Getting around
Boats run to the islands from the mainland, mainly from Jumeirah and Dubai Marina, and seaplanes can land nearby. The trip usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes.
Nearby
On the mainland, Jumeirah, Dubai Maritime City and Palm Jumeirah are the closest areas.
What people like
- Total privacy and sea views
- A truly unique address
- Hotels and beach clubs on some islands
- Skyline views from the water
What to watch
- Reached only by boat or seaplane
- Most projects still under construction
- Narrow resale market
- High running costs
Common questions
How do you get to The World Islands?
By boat or seaplane, usually around 15 to 20 minutes from the mainland.
Can you live on The World Islands?
Some homes are complete, but most are used as holiday homes, and many islands are still undeveloped.
What is the Heart of Europe?
It is the most developed project on The World Islands, with hotels, beach clubs and holiday homes.
How much is a villa on The World Islands?
Beach villas range from around AED 6 to 15 million in 2026, depending on the island and the project.
Can foreigners buy on The World Islands?
Yes. Property on The World Islands is open to buyers of any nationality.
Similar communities
This guide gives general information, last reviewed in October 2026. Prices, availability and project details change, so ask an advisor for current figures before making a decision. Photo by Edgar El on Wikimedia Commons, licensed CC BY 3.0.