UAE’s ever-evolving real estate market has embraced a remarkable trend in recent years: collaborations between property developers and international luxury brands. This format, known as branded residences, is reshaping how residents and investors think about lifestyle, design, and value in the city’s most desirable neighborhoods.
A few notable examples illustrate this trend: Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana, created in partnership with the iconic jewelry house; Mira Coral Bay, which brings together several renowned brands under one roof; and DAMAC Bay by Cavalli, known for its bold design and statement interiors. These projects reflect the new priorities of buyers and developers alike. In this article, we’ll explore why branded residences have become so relevant in the UAE, what makes these collaborations unique, and how the market continues to evolve.
The rise of branded residences in the UAE is rooted in the country’s status as a global luxury destination. Over the last decade, Dubai and Abu Dhabi have attracted international investors, celebrities, and entrepreneurs—all of whom are accustomed to a high standard of living and expect something unique when choosing a home. Developers recognized the opportunity: by partnering with luxury brands, they could offer not just property, but a ready-made lifestyle with a built-in aura of prestige and exclusivity.
At the same time, global brands saw value in expanding into real estate, using projects to strengthen their presence in the region and connect with new audiences. The result is a win-win: buyers get an elevated experience, developers enhance the appeal of their projects, and brands increase their cultural relevance.
Branded residences stand apart from traditional real estate in several ways. First, the partnership with an established brand guarantees a certain level of design, service, and attention to detail. Interiors are often co-designed with the brand’s creative team, amenities are upgraded, and hospitality-style services are included. This means residents enjoy not just a home, but a comprehensive luxury experience—from concierge services to wellness facilities and exclusive access to brand events.
Second, branded projects often have a distinctive aesthetic or theme. Whether it’s the elegance of an Italian fashion house, the innovation of a Swiss watchmaker, or the glamour of a jewelry icon, these influences are evident in both the architecture and lifestyle offered by the development. In a competitive market like the UAE, these details help projects stand out and attract buyers looking for something different.
The UAE’s real estate scene features an impressive line-up of branded collaborations. Ohana Jacob and Co merges waterfront living with the artistry and precision of a jewelry house. Mira Coral Bay brings together several high-end partners to deliver a multi-branded community experience. DAMAC Bay by Cavalli is instantly recognizable thanks to its bold interiors, reflecting the signature style of the Italian fashion label.
Other landmark projects include DAMAC’s partnerships with Fendi Casa, Versace, and Paramount Hotels & Resorts; Emaar’s Armani Residences at Burj Khalifa; and Dar Al Arkan’s tie-ins with global automotive and couture names. Each project offers a unique mix of location, design, and lifestyle, but all share the promise of brand-backed quality.
When branded residences first appeared in the UAE, the focus was on iconic towers—glamorous skyscrapers with brand-aligned interiors and services. Today, the concept is diversifying. New developments introduce new formats, such as low-rise residences and villa communities set by the sea, which appeal to buyers seeking privacy, direct access to nature, and a more relaxed pace of life.
This shift signals a maturing market, where buyers expect both brand cachet and a choice of lifestyle. Developers are responding by experimenting with new locations, themes, and amenities—from resort-style pools and private beaches to wellness retreats and art spaces.
As demand for unique, experience-driven living grows, branded residences will likely remain a defining feature of the UAE’s property landscape. Future collaborations may move beyond luxury fashion and jewelry to include tech brands, sports icons, or even sustainability pioneers, reflecting broader lifestyle trends.
What’s clear is that the market will continue to innovate, offering residents more than just an address. In the UAE, a home has become a personal statement—one shaped as much by brand and experience as by bricks and mortar.