Emirates Palace, a globally recognised symbol of luxury hospitality, is set to introduce 35 private luxury residences within its expansive grounds, signaling a significant evolution for the iconic Abu Dhabi landmark. Announced with plans for completion by May 2026, this development positions the property to further enhance Abu Dhabi’s ultra-luxury residential market, offering an exclusive lifestyle proposition to discerning investors and residents.
Since its opening in 2005, Emirates Palace has been a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s hospitality landscape. Commissioned by the Abu Dhabi government, the property was conceived as a landmark worthy of the UAE capital, designed to host international dignitaries while showcasing exquisite Arabian architecture and cultural heritage. Its initial construction, reportedly costing $3 billion (Dh11 billion), established a new benchmark for luxury in the region.
The scale and opulence of Emirates Palace remain unmatched. The property encompasses 394 rooms, including 92 suites and 22 residential suites historically reserved for heads of state. Its interiors are a testament to palatial design, featuring 26,247 metres of 22-carat gold leaf, polished marble, and ornate chandeliers. Functionality meets grandeur across its 1,000,000 sq m footprint, which includes 7,000 doors, 128 kitchens, a private marina, and four helipads.
Outdoors, lush gardens cultivate 8,000 trees, providing a habitat for over 150 bird species, while date palms yield 20 tonnes of dates annually. The transition of management to Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group in January 2020 further solidified its position within the international luxury hotel segment. The addition of private residences under the Mandarin Oriental brand is expected to attract high-net-worth individuals seeking branded luxury living, contributing to increased demand and value appreciation in Abu Dhabi’s prime waterfront property sector. This strategic move highlights the enduring appeal of iconic addresses and their growing integration into the broader real estate investment landscape of Abu Dhabi.