Meraas has revealed an ambitious new residential masterplan for Dubai Design District (d3), outlining a 1.67 million m² waterfront expansion that will transform the creative hub into a fully integrated neighbourhood combining art, design, and urban living.
Situated between Downtown Dubai and Dubai Creek, the project will be overseen by Meraas, a subsidiary of Dubai Holding Real Estate.
The development plan will introduce residential buildings along the canal, cultural and creative spaces, and expansive public green areas designed to enhance community life.
According to the developer, the new masterplan “will add new homes, cultural spaces, and improved public areas,” offering a vibrant extension to the existing creative ecosystem of d3.
The vision centres on blending living spaces with retail, hospitality and cultural venues, shaping an urban environment that promotes creativity and connection.
At the heart of the project is the Design Line, a shaded pedestrian promenade linking the district through art installations, landscaped corridors and social hubs.
The route is designed to encourage walkability and community interaction while celebrating d3’s creative spirit.
Meraas stated that the expansion responds to growing local and international demand for well-connected waterfront communities in Dubai.
The project aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, a long-term government strategy aimed at positioning Dubai as a global centre for design, innovation, and culture.
“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,” said Dubai Holding Real Estate CEO Khalid Al Malik.
“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.”
Sustainability is a key focus of the plan. Developers are targeting LEED Silver certification, incorporating energy-efficient technologies, smart mobility systems and improved environmental connectivity throughout the site.
Residents and visitors will enjoy open views of natural landmarks such as Dubai Creek and Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary.
The masterplan divides the neighbourhood into five distinct precincts, each supporting a unique aspect of urban life.
Canal-side residences will offer contemporary living paired with boutique hospitality, while the district’s urban core will blend homes with retail and dining options.
A cultural quarter is envisioned to house performance venues and mid-rise apartments, complemented by a wellness area featuring parks and sports facilities.
Additionally, a creative hub will support art galleries, design studios and co-working spaces for Dubai’s growing community of artists and entrepreneurs.
Recent property successes within d3 underscore the strong appetite for the district’s offerings. Atelis, a waterfront tower, sold out all 280 units shortly after launch, while The Edit, a three-tower project comprising 557 homes, has also drawn significant buyer interest.
With this expansion, Meraas aims to reinforce d3’s evolution from a design district into a thriving, self-sustaining community, where people can “live, work and participate in creative industries”.