The artificial archipelago of Al Marjan Island, located 27 km southwest of the centre of Ras Al Khaimah, occupies an exceptional position on the UAE landscape. The four interconnected islands of Breeze, Treasure, View and Dream forming this large-scale project are designed in the shape of a coral reef. They extend 4.5 kilometres into the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf and occupy an impressive area of about 270 hectares. The islands are located near the border with the emirate of Umm Al Qaiwain, approximately 15 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, and 45 minutes from Dubai. Al Marjan Island Boulevard directly connects the location with Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311), providing excellent transport accessibility. The proximity to Al Hamra Village and Mina Al Arab complements the infrastructural advantages of the area, while maintaining the seclusion and privacy typical of island living.
The surrounding archipelago's majestic Jebel Jais and Janis mountain ranges add to the special charm of this location. They not only provide a stunning natural background, but also create a special microclimate on the islands, protecting them from the winds. The unique combination of sea and mountain landscapes, complemented by a well thought-out infrastructure, makes Al Marjan Island one of the most picturesque and promising places to live and invest in the UAE.
Al Marjan Island is actively developing water transport — there is already a regular ferry service to other emirates, and in future it is planned to establish its own marina for 400 yachts. Public transport is represented by bus routes of RAK Transport Authority, connecting the island with the key destinations of the emirate. There is a network of bicycle paths over 15 kilometres long for those who like to travel in an eco-friendly way, and car sharing services make travelling around the island even more convenient.
The development of infrastructure on Al Marjan Island is proceeding rapidly, forming a full-fledged ecosystem for comfortable living. Although the archipelago has no educational institutions of its own, prestigious international schools, such as RAK Academy with a British programme of education and GEMS Westminster School, are located within a 10-15 minute drive. Medical services are provided by state-of-the-art clinics: RAK Hospital with advanced equipment and the state-run Saqr Hospital. Al Hamra Mall with 120 retail outlets and Manar Mall are perfect for shopping. There is a wide range of items from both global brands and local labels. The archipelago is also home to many restaurants offering local and international cuisine. Salt Restaurant, L'Olivo, Lalezar, Meat Point for steak lovers and Vespa Italian Restaurant for Italian cuisine are some of the popular choices.
Al Marjan Island is surrounded by 7.8 kilometres of white sandy beaches with crystal clear waters, many of which have been awarded the Blue Flag. One of the most popular spots is Turtle Beach, home to sea turtles. The islands also offer all facilities for water sports, from diving and surfing to parasailing and fishing. The ecological concept of Al Marjan Island development is worth mentioning — 40% of the territory is allocated for green zones, innovative systems of ‘smart’ energy consumption and water desalination are being implemented.
Al Marjan Island is an ideal destination for active travellers, with easy access to Ras Al Khaimah's main natural attractions. Bear Grylls Explorers Camp is just an hour's drive away, providing a world-renowned adventure centre where you can go rock climbing, rappelling, hiking and archery. The camp offers professional survival courses in the beautiful scenery of the Hajar Mountains, designed by Bear Grylls personally. You can also visit the famous Jebel Jais Flight ziplane, and after a busy day, dine at 1484 by Puro. This is the UAE's highest altitude restaurant, located at 1,484 metres on top of Jebel Jais.
The resort component of Al Marjan Island is setting new standards of excellence in the region. The archipelago is already home to flagship hotels including the premium all-inclusive Rixos Bab Al Bahr and DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa. However, the real revolution in the island's tourism appeal will come with the opening of Wynn Al Marjan Island, the UAE's first integrated casino resort. This ambitious project will inevitably bring a new level of prestige to the archipelago.
The market for property on Al Marjan Island is showing steady growth, offering a wide range of options from mid-segment apartments to exclusive villas. The location is experiencing a real construction boom, becoming the site for ambitious projects by the region's leading developers. The largest players of the market, including giants Emaar, DAMAC and Aldar, are actively developing the premium sector in this area. Emaar is developing Address Residences Al Marjan with luxury waterfront apartments and serviced townhouses from Address Hotels + Resorts, while the property at DAMAC Shoreline is offered with a bamboo forest, water bar and underwater viewing deck. Aldar Properties is progressing the prestigious Nikki Beach Residences, which is being designed in partnership with renowned hospitality brand Nikki Beach Global. The exceptional design of Ellington Costa Mare is complemented by breathtaking coastal views and world-class amenities.
Exclusive branded properties on Al Marjan Island are of special interest, raising the bar for quality of life on the island. Notable examples of global collaborations include the apartments at La Mer by Elie Saab with designer interiors by the world-renowned couturier, the residences at Aston Martin by DarGlobal, embodying the legendary brand's automotive aesthetic in architecture and finishes, and the chalets, apartments and villas at Moonstone by Missoni with designer finishes by the renowned Italian fashion house. Nobu Hotels & Residences is the first residential development under the Nobu brand on Al Marjan Island. An equally striking project is the JW Marriott Residences Al Marjan Island with five-star hotel services and architecture by Tony Ashai.
The unprecedented level of interest from top developers and global brands confirms Al Marjan Island's position as one of the most promising investment destinations in the northern emirates. Affordable housing prices compared to Dubai, developing infrastructure and exclusive residential concepts create an exceptional environment for both buyers and investors looking for long-term growth in asset value. The investment attractiveness of buying property on Al Marjan Island is confirmed by the specific figures: the average rental yield is 6-8% per annum, while the cost per square metre remains 25-30% lower than in comparable Dubai projects. Properties in the zone of influence of the Wynn Resort under construction are considered to be especially promising — analysts forecast a 35-40% price growth by the time the resort opens.
Prospects for the development of Al Marjan Island until 2030 include the implementation of 25 new residential and commercial complexes, the establishment of an educational cluster with international schools, the development of a centre for specialised medical care and the expansion of transport infrastructure, including the introduction of a water taxi system. Exclusive megaprojects make the archipelago one of the most promising destinations for living and investment in the UAE. Meanwhile, Al Marjan Island preserves a chamber atmosphere that differentiates it from the bustling tourist centres.
Al Marjan Island
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