Waterfall entry, stunning views: 8 branded residences in Dubai that will make your jaw drop

With the launch of the first-ever Bugatti branded residence, Dubai is fast-emerging as the leader in branded residences. The uber-luxurious project by the French car brand will be a 43-floor project that will house 171 mansions and 11 sky mansion penthouses.

In November last year, a report by property services company Savills said that Dubai was the world’s top hotspot for branded residences in terms of supply and projects in the pipeline. By volume of pipeline, the US, UAE, Vietnam, and Mexico are forecast to add the largest number of schemes — more than 30 schemes in each country by 2027.

“After a number of years of evolution, the branded residences sector has proven resilient and adaptable to adverse market conditions, offering security and reliable quality to buyers and attractive returns to developers and brands,” said Riyan Itani, head of global residential development consultancy, Savills.

Here is a list of the top branded residences currently available or expected in the UAE:

1. Armani Residences, Burj Khalifa

Located on floors 9 to 15 of the world’s tallest tower, these residences are ultra-exclusive and allow residents to access hotel facilities and restaurants. The design of Armani Residences Dubai is meant to be a reflection of Giorgio Armani’s personal approach to sophistication and style. Its smooth, understated design combines space and bespoke furnishings. All furnishings are made-to-measure with customized finishes. Currently, a 2-bedroom apartment with fountain view is listed on property websites at close to Dh13 million.

2. Palazzo Versace

Located in Dubai’s Cultural Village, which houses several of the city’s museums and art galleries, this development is only one of two Palazzo Versaces in the world. Each unit is fully furnished with designer Versace furniture and luxurious fabrics, rich parquetry floors, floor to ceiling windows and elaborate silks. The exceptional finishes and mosaics were designed and furnished by House of Fantini, which also laid the mosaic in the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The ceilings are hand-detailed in gold, with an impressive chandelier lighting up the grand foyer. Currently, a four-bedroom duplex apartment with a private pool from the development is listed for sale at Dh17 million.

3. BV Residences (Bvlgari Resorts and Residences)

The Bvlgari Resorts & Residences Dubai, which is being developed in collaboration with Meraas, is located on the private Jumeirah Bay island off the coast of Dubai that is sculpted in the shape of a titanic seahorse riding the arcs of sand and rock. It is one of only six places in the world where people can enjoy 'the Bvlgari lifestyle'. Designed by world-renowned architect, Antonio Citterio, the development will be located within the vicinity of City Walk and offer private landscaped gardens to its residents. All 173 apartments and 15 mansions also promise magnificent views.

4. DAMAC Bay by Cavalli

This luxury seafront apartment complex is a collaboration between designer Roberto Cavalli and UAE property company Damac. The majestic 42-storey residential concept is rising as three towers in Dubai Harbour. With Cavalli-inspired interiors and their own private beach, residents will be able to enjoy the sky, sun and sea on an island of happiness with apartments that have been crafted in exquisite detail. The tower has 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom units from Levels 2 to 28, and super luxury 3- to 5-bedroom units from Levels 29 to 40. This is not the first time Cavalli is collaborating with Damac; he has also designed the Just Cavalli villas in Damac Hills 2 and Cavalli Tower in Dubai Marina.

5. St. Regis Residences

Located in Downtown Dubai, the St. Regis Residences consist of two sleek and modern art-deco inspired towers rising 262m and 171m above the Dubai Opera district, respectively, with an ultra-modern landscaped podium that connects the buildings. Housing 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartments, the building also offers a kids' pool on podium deck, a library and residential lounges. In 2022, 516 properties of the prestigious towers were purchased for a total of Dh1.85 billion.

6. Ava at Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection