Dubai's quirky archipelago project, The World Islands, is about to gain a very Italian neighbour. Maserati, the carmaker behind some of the world's most recognisable luxury motors, is putting its name on an entire island off the city's coast — complete with waterfront homes, private pools and even a floating Italian restaurant.
The development, a partnership between Maserati and developer SAMANA COLLECTA, will eventually hold 840 branded residences, seven exclusive water villas and two tree villas wrapped in greenery. The first phase alone covers 232 homes, from studios up to four-bedroom apartments, all with their own private pool and open sea views. Interiors lean heavily on the brand's Italian roots: architect Carlo Colombo of A++ Studio is curating the design, and furnishings come from the Giorgetti Maserati Edition collection.
Beyond the homes, the island is pitched as a full-time lifestyle rather than a holiday bolt-hole. Plans include a beach club, private beaches, a central lagoon, resort-style pools, spas, indoor and outdoor gyms, a water sports marina, co-working lounges, shops and concierge services. The centrepiece for food lovers is a floating Italian restaurant — a fitting choice given the brand behind it.
Access is where things get suitably theatrical: residents and guests will reach the island by dedicated luxury yacht shuttle from mainland Dubai, making the boat ride a regular part of the commute rather than a special occasion.
Handover of the first residences is scheduled for 2030, and pricing hasn't been released yet. That leaves plenty of time to watch how the project shapes up — Dubai has a mixed record with ambitious island developments, so buyers and curious travellers alike will want details before committing.
Why does this matter to travellers? Even if a branded residence isn't on your shopping list, the island adds another headline attraction to Dubai's ever-growing luxury scene, and its beach club, restaurant and marina facilities are the kind of amenities that often open to visiting guests. It also signals where the city's high-end market is heading: away from towers and out onto the water. If you're planning a Dubai trip later this decade, Maserati Island could be worth a look alongside established draws like Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters — and it's one more reason The World Islands, long one of Dubai's most talked-about experiments, is back in the news.
For now, treat this as one to watch. First keys in 2030, a yacht shuttle as the ferry, and a floating plate of pasta at the end of it — Dubai's island era keeps getting stranger and more glamorous in equal measure.
Story first reported by What's On Dubai.
