UAE doubles down on offering ultra-luxurious homes, hotels

The UAE is earning its reputation for offering ultra-luxurious hospitality to provide accommodations for those who seek a higher standard of living.

Aldar, the country’s largest residential developer, shattered records by selling an eight-bedroom mansion in Abu Dhabi for $109 million, the UAE capital’s most expensive home ever.

Located in the exclusive beachfront community of Faya Al Saadiyat, the 6,561 square-meter estate boasts a private car gallery, golf simulator, home cinema, wellness suites, and direct beach access, The National reports. 

In the northern emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, a new Hard Rock Hotel is hitting the high notes with plans to open in 2028 near Al Marjan Island, where the Gulf’s first casino resort is under development. The hotel, backed by RAK Hospitality and Malta’s db Group, will feature 300 rooms, 395 branded homes, and a vibrant events venue.

Outside of the country, Dubai’s Jumeirah Group operates a $50,000-a-night private island resort off Tanzania that is part of a surge in global investor interest in Africa’s luxury hospitality market, Bloomberg reports.

Etihad Airways, meanwhile, Abu Dhabi’s flag carrier, which is owned by sovereign wealth fund ADQ, announced on Thursday that it has received the first Airbus A321LR, featuring rare first-class seats on a narrow-body jet. It’s part of a 30-aircraft expansion that will form the backbone of the airline’s growth through 2028.