Meraas Unveils An 18-Million-Sq-Ft Residential Vision For d3, Anchored By A Waterfront Neighbourhood

Dubai’s creative district is getting a residential upgrade. Meraas has unveiled an expanded masterplan for Dubai Design District (d3), set to transform the area into a vibrant, waterfront neighbourhood designed for modern urban living.

Meraas Announces Expanded Residential Masterplan In d3

The newly announced masterplan will introduce contemporary canal-front homes, public green spaces, cultural quarters and walkable streets, creating a fully integrated community where people can live, work and create in one thoughtfully designed environment. Located between Downtown Dubai and Dubai Creek, the development will span 18 million sq ft, bringing a new residential dimension to one of the city’s most dynamic districts.

Blending Residential, Cultural, Retail & Hospitality Experiences

Designed and delivered by Meraas, the neighbourhood blends residential living with retail, hospitality and cultural experiences, reinforcing Dubai’s ambition to strengthen its position as a global centre for design, innovation and culture, in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

Design Line: The Defining Feature

A key feature of the masterplan is the Design Line, a fully shaded, pedestrian-first spine that connects the entire district. Activated through public art, creative installations, landscaped green corridors and community spaces, it supports walkable, human-centric living while strengthening d3’s identity as one of Dubai’s most design-forward neighbourhoods. The masterplan is also targeting LEED Silver community certification, with a strong focus on sustainable mobility, enhanced connectivity, energy-efficient design and visual links to Dubai Creek and the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary.

Five Distinct Areas Shape The Character Of The New Neighbourhood

The new neighbourhood will be shaped by five distinct areas, each contributing to its overall character.

• Along the canal, contemporary residences and boutique hospitality will sit alongside an activated waterfront promenade.
• The urban core will bring together residential offerings with curated retail and dining, seamlessly integrated with d3’s established creative ecosystem.
• A third area will form the cultural heart of the community, featuring performance venues and mid-rise residences overlooking d3.
• Another area will offer a wellness-focused residential setting defined by parks, sports facilities and a mangrove-inspired landscape.
• The final area will be dedicated to creativity, with galleries, studios and loft-style spaces designed to encourage collaboration and artistic expression.

Together, the expanded residential offering strengthens the d3 masterplan, positioning it as one of Dubai’s most inspiring and globally relevant neighbourhoods – beyond a lifestyle destination, a community where creativity lives. 

Source: Curly Tales