Meraas, a member of Dubai Holding Real Estate (DHRE), has announced an expansion of the residential masterplan for Dubai Design District (d3), transforming the area into a waterfront neighbourhood for residents and professionals.
The development will feature canal-front residences, cultural spaces, parks and streets designed for pedestrians, creating a community for residents to live, work and develop projects.
The masterplan covers 18 million sqft of land between Downtown Dubai and Dubai Creek. The neighbourhood will combine residential units, cultural venues, retail outlets and hospitality facilities.
Dubai Holding Real Estate transforms d3 into 18 million sq. ft integrated residential and creative neighbourhood
The expansion aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and responds to demand following launches of residential projects and interest from purchasers in the local and international markets.
“Expanding the Dubai Design District masterplan into a fully integrated creative neighbourhood is a significant step in advancing the ambitions of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. This development strengthens Dubai Design District’s position as a global benchmark for design-focused urban living and reaffirms Dubai’s status as a destination of choice for long-term investment, talent and innovation,” Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate said in a statement.
The masterplan includes the Design Line, a shaded pedestrian spine connecting the district. The pathway will feature art, installations, community spaces and landscaping to support walkability.
The masterplan targets LEED Silver community certification through mobility planning, connectivity, energy design and integration with landscapes, including views of Dubai Creek and the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary.
Meraas announces canal-front living and cultural quarters in Dubai Design District masterplan
The development will comprise five areas. The first will offer residences and hospitality along a canal promenade. The second will combine residential units with retail and dining within d3’s ecosystem. A third area will serve as a cultural centre with performance venues and residences overlooking the d3 Bowl.
A fourth zone will provide residences with parks, sports facilities and landscape design inspired by mangroves. The fifth area will house galleries, studios and loft spaces for collaboration and production.
Meraas has released residential projects at d3 that have generated demand. Atelis, a 280-unit tower, sold out, and The Edit, a three-tower development with 557 homes, launched.
The expansion positions d3 as a neighbourhood where professionals and residents from the international community can establish residence and pursue work in design and related fields.




