Dubai’s real estate market continues to dazzle, and now a new chapter is being written at one of its most iconic landmarks. Shamal, a prominent Dubai-based developer, has officially announced a 90-unit luxury residential and lifestyle development on the historic site of the former Dubai Zoo in Jumeirah 1. This bold move aims to transform a site rich with history into a tranquil, design-forward community that caters to modern urban living.
A Tribute to the Past, Designed for the Future
For decades, the Dubai Zoo served as a beloved destination for families and visitors, holding a special place in the city’s collective memory. Rather than erase the past, Shamal’s vision is rooted in honouring the legacy of the site while reimagining it as a calm, grounded, and personal sanctuary for contemporary life.
The development’s architectural narrative reflects this balance. Natural materials, soft lines, and minimalist geometry are paired with organic landscaping and shaded pathways, echoing the zoo’s once lush environment. Every detail has been carefully crafted to evoke familiarity while embracing future-forward aesthetics.
Architectural Brilliance Meets Sustainable Urbanism
Renowned Dubai-based architecture studio DXB Lab is behind the masterplan. Their design reinterprets the site’s original organic layout into a series of intimate clusters, courtyards, and shared green spaces. Preserved mature trees, open parks, and shaded promenades all contribute to a community-first atmosphere.
This human-centric layout doesn’t just look beautiful—it fosters genuine interaction. Think shaded walkways that encourage walking over driving, cozy courtyards that naturally become gathering spots, and outdoor nooks designed for reading, relaxing, or simply enjoying the breeze.
Lifestyle Amenities Designed for Wellness and Connection
Shamal’s new development is far more than just residential buildings—it’s an immersive lifestyle destination. The project includes a thoughtfully curated array of wellness and leisure amenities that cater to residents of all ages and lifestyles.
Key features include:
- A contemporary clubhouse and lounge
- A fully-equipped gym and wellness space
- Family swimming pool
- Children’s play zone
- Landscaped central park and pedestrian pathways
The emphasis is on community, health, and relaxation. Whether it’s an early morning workout, an afternoon swim, or a quiet evening stroll, residents will have multiple ways to unwind without ever leaving their neighborhood.
Prime Location with Unrivaled Access
Positioned in the heart of Jumeirah 1, this low-rise boutique development enjoys both exclusivity and connectivity. Residents will be moments away from some of Dubai’s most prestigious destinations, including pristine beaches, iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, and a vibrant dining and retail scene.
Yet, despite its central location, the community offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. This balance of urban energy and residential serenity is expected to appeal to families, young professionals, and investors alike.
Aligning with Dubai’s Booming Real Estate Momentum
The timing of this project couldn’t be better. Dubai’s real estate market continues to show exceptional growth, with a strong surge in off-plan property demand. Buyers are increasingly looking for developments that offer both luxury and liveability—precisely what Shamal’s latest offering delivers.
There’s also a growing preference for low-rise, nature-integrated communities that provide space, privacy, and a strong sense of neighborhood. This project aligns with that trend perfectly, setting a new standard for high-end residential offerings in legacy locations.
Construction and Future Outlook
Site preparation for the 1.5-hectare project has already been completed, and the first phases of construction are expected to begin shortly. Although specific timelines have not yet been publicly released, insiders suggest that sales and marketing will commence later this year, with unit deliveries projected within the next few years.
Anticipation is high—not just for what the development will offer residents, but for how it redefines what’s possible for Dubai’s historic sites. It marks a move toward thoughtful redevelopment, blending heritage with sustainability and contemporary design.
Why This Project Matters
This transformation of the Dubai Zoo site is more than just another real estate venture. It symbolizes a shift in how the city treats its landmarks—not just as spaces to build on, but as stories to continue. Shamal’s project is a testament to the idea that growth doesn’t have to come at the cost of memory or identity.
By weaving the zoo’s legacy into the fabric of a modern residential community, Shamal has created something rare: a place where people don’t just live, but belong. A place where the past and future exist side-by-side—not in conflict, but in harmony.
What It Means for Residents and Investors
For residents, this is an opportunity to live in a uniquely designed, culturally significant community. Every aspect of the project—from the landscaping to the amenities—has been curated to create a calm, luxurious, and engaging lifestyle.
For investors, the development presents a compelling opportunity. Limited-unit communities in prime areas like Jumeirah are rare, and their value tends to appreciate significantly over time. With Dubai’s continued population growth and investor interest, properties that offer both exclusivity and narrative-driven appeal are in high demand.
Looking Ahead
As Dubai evolves into a more mature and mindful metropolis, projects like this set the tone for future development. They show that it’s possible to innovate without erasing history, to build luxury without losing community, and to create value without compromising meaning.
Shamal’s 90-unit residential development at the former Dubai Zoo site is a blueprint for the future of urban living in Dubai—one that’s deeply rooted in story, inspired by nature, and designed for real life.
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