Community living in Sharjah: Inside Alef's next-gen developments

Gulf Business

3 days ago

Image credit: Alef/Supplied
While Dubai and Abu Dhabi grab the headlines, Sharjah is quietly crafting a powerful growth story of its own.
In the first half of 2024, real estate transactions in the emirate jumped over 35 per cent year-on-year—a clear sign of rising investor confidence and renewed market momentum.
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Analysts point to Sharjah's improved regulatory frameworks as a key catalyst. These updates have helped boost investor trust, while the emirate's high quality of life at more accessible price points has drawn in families and mid-tier buyers. It's a mix that is turning heads.
'Sharjah's real estate appeal stems from its strategic location, offering proximity to Dubai while maintaining a unique cultural identity. The emirate's investor-friendly policies, including freehold ownership for expatriates and competitive pricing, make it an attractive destination for both residents and investors. Furthermore, Sharjah's emphasis on cultural preservation, education, and family-centric developments enhances its desirability,' Issa Ataya, CEO of Alef, told Gulf Business.
Image credit: Alef/Supplied
Strategic, cultural, and cost advantage
Sharjah's location — on Dubai's doorstep — offers investors easy access to one of the world's leading commercial centres, yet with real estate costs typically 30–50 per cent lower. It's a value proposition that's hard to ignore, especially when quality, infrastructure, and lifestyle are not compromised.
Culturally rich and education-focused, Sharjah continues to build liveable, well-planned communities. These attributes have cemented its appeal with families looking not just for a property, but for a long-term home.
April 2025 snapshot: Dhs4bn in deals
Momentum continues to build. In April 2025 alone, Sharjah saw 7,206 real estate transactions worth Dhs4bn, covering nearly 10.3 million square feet, according to the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department.
The emirate's real estate expansion is being driven by integrated reforms — supportive policies, flexible legislation, and master-planned developments that are attracting both domestic and foreign capital.
Notable deals include a Dhs115m transaction in Al Majaz 3. The spread of activity across 117 areas also signals a broadening market base and a sector increasingly aligned with investor needs.
Sharjah is no longer a quiet alternative. With a rising profile, strong fundamentals, and a pro-growth stance, it's fast becoming a first-choice destination for savvy investors.
Alef: Redefining lifestyle development in Sharjah
Founded in 2013 by the late Sheikh Khalid Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Alef is a privately held lifestyle developer with a sharp focus on shaping premium communities and experiences in Sharjah. With assets and land valued at Dhs12bn, the company is spearheading high-quality residential and mixed-use developments that merge business, leisure, and modern living.
Image credit: Alef/Supplied
A vision beyond buildings
Alef's philosophy is anchored in the ideals of its founder. Sheikh Khalid didn't simply want to build; he aimed to transform how people experience real estate in Sharjah. His vision: communities designed with purpose, where lifestyle, sustainability, and innovation intersect to elevate everyday living.
That vision came to life in 2017 with the launch of Al Mamsha. More than a project, it marked a shift to human-centric living — prioritising people, connectivity, and community.
Today, the company remains committed to smart, sustainable urban planning. Every project is designed to be environmentally conscious and responsive to the evolving needs of UAE residents. From masterplans to amenities, Alef focuses on delivering balanced, future-ready lifestyles.
Its mission is clear: to honour Sheikh Khalid's legacy by setting a new standard for living in Sharjah — driven by innovation, inclusivity, and progress.
A growing portfolio
Alef's expansion is deeply linked to Sharjah's evolving real estate landscape. By launching diverse communities — from the urban apartments of Al Mamsha and the new Olfah project to spacious villas in Hayyan — the developer caters to both lifestyle seekers and investors.
'Looking ahead, our expansion plans are set to extend beyond Sharjah's central region. We are exploring opportunities along the emirate's beachfront west and eastern corridors, aiming to introduce developments that blend modern living with natural beauty. Our commitment is to create integrated communities that not only offer quality living spaces but also enhance Sharjah's position as a premier real estate destination,' Attaya told Gulf Business.
Sharjah's broader strategy around infrastructure, urban planning, and affordable living has helped attract residents seeking long-term security and lifestyle balance — an environment in which Alef continues to thrive.
Sustainability and innovation in Alef projects
Sustainability is central to Alef's development strategy. The company is committed to building communities that support environmental responsibility, improve resident well-being, and deliver long-term value.
At Olfah, sustainability is embedded in the design. The project incorporates eco-conscious infrastructure such as fully insulated buildings, double-glazed windows, and energy recovery ventilation systems to enhance energy efficiency and indoor air quality. Additional features include LED lighting, a greywater system for irrigating landscaped areas, and sustainable, interactive water elements. Residents also benefit from a Building Management System (BMS) that optimises energy use and operational efficiency.
Olfah reflects Alef's vision of fusing luxury with nature. Spanning more than 84,000 square metres, it comprises twelve mid-rise buildings ranging from 9 to 11 storeys. Its centrepiece is Sharjah's largest private community park — an elevated podium space covering over 26,000 square metres. The park offers uninterrupted views and a tranquil setting, with recreational zones, children's play areas, an amphitheatre, BBQ spots, resort-style swimming pools, and wellness spaces. Ideally positioned, Olfah is just ten minutes from Sharjah International Airport and five minutes from major educational institutions, making it a strategic choice for families and professionals alike.
Sustainability also defines Al Mamsha, another flagship development by Alef. As Sharjah's first fully walkable community, it eliminates the need for internal vehicular traffic, helping to reduce emissions while encouraging active, healthier lifestyles. The development integrates smart infrastructure, greywater recycling for landscaping, ventilated walkways that minimise heat build-up, and double-glazed façades that regulate indoor temperatures and cut energy consumption.
Alef's approach goes beyond compliance — it's about embedding sustainability into the fabric of modern living. Through thoughtful planning and design, it is redefining what responsible urban development looks like in Sharjah.
Beyond conventional sustainability
'In Hayyan, Alef goes beyond conventional sustainability efforts by encouraging self-sufficient, eco-friendly living. The community offers private allotments within villa plots for residents to practice organic farming, promoting sustainable agriculture at the community level. Smart home technologies are also integrated into the villas, allowing residents to manage energy consumption efficiently and enjoy enhanced comfort and security. The community's expansive swimmable lagoon and green spaces further reinforce Alef's vision of connecting people with nature in a sustainable, balanced lifestyle,' Ataya stated.
Hayyan is a major development being rolled out in phases. Three zones are currently under construction, with handovers expected to begin by late 2026. On-site progress has already advanced significantly.
Designed as a townhouse and villa project, Hayyan embodies Alef's broader philosophy: lifestyle, retail, entertainment, and leisure must coexist within a single, integrated community.
A key highlight is the 'farm-to-table' concept. Each resident receives a private allotment to grow their own organic produce — bringing sustainable agriculture into daily life. Together with its rich lifestyle amenities, Hayyan reflects a complete, community-first approach.
Application of best practices
Sustainability is embedded in every phase of Alef's project cycle — from material sourcing to long-term community operations. Smart home systems are central to this strategy, helping homeowners reduce energy consumption and optimise efficiency.
The company also invests in advanced solutions for irrigation, water recycling, and emissions reduction. At Al Mamsha, Alef's sustainability credentials are on full display. It's Sharjah's first fully walkable community — no internal vehicular traffic is allowed. Thirty-three buildings span the development, all interconnected by pedestrian pathways. The car-free design cuts emissions and enhances the liveability of the space.
Even building orientation plays a role. Alef carefully plans the position of structures to harness natural wind flow, reduce heat, and improve ventilation. The result: more comfortable outdoor spaces and an environment designed around human experience and environmental harmony.
Smart communities and urban vision
'Our commitment extends to integrating smart technologies that optimise energy efficiency, security, and convenience across our developments. By adhering to green building standards and minimising carbon footprints, we ensure our projects align with international sustainability benchmarks. These initiatives not only address current environmental challenges but also position Alef as a forward-thinking developer committed to long-term ecological responsibility,' Ataya added.
In Hayyan, Alef continues to push boundaries in mixed-use planning. The community will feature a clubhouse, mosque, and retail outlets— bringing essential services and social spaces together. These elements are designed to support daily living and create a sense of belonging, transforming Hayyan into a self-sustained, inclusive neighbourhood.
Meanwhile, Al Mamsha Hamsa brings a more urban, contemporary flavour. This development comprises three buildings and 420 residential units. With landscaped zones, swimming pools, and calming water features, Hamsa offers a tranquil setting with direct access to retail and lifestyle amenities. 'Its proximity to key landmarks ensures convenience, catering to the needs of families, professionals, and discerning investors,' Ataya emphasised.
Alef's market position and future plans
Alef is closely aligned with this vision. Its portfolio — spanning sleek apartments to spacious villas — caters to a wide spectrum of buyers. In 2024, the company reported Dhs2.4bn in sales, up 33 per cent year-on-year, securing over 25 per cent of Sharjah's real estate market share.
At the ACRES 2025 exhibition, Alef signed 1,006 sales and purchase agreements worth Dhs1.37bn. The event also marked the official launch of Al Mamsha Hamsa, which received strong investor interest. The company also spotlighted Olfah and Hayyan — both praised for their design-led approach and lifestyle focus.
'This achievement at ACRES 2025 reflects the confidence that investors and residents place in Alef's vision of redefining modern living. The launch of Al Mamsha Hamsa, alongside the sustained interest in Olfah and Hayyan, underscores our commitment to delivering sustainable and innovative developments that align with the aspirations of Sharjah's residents and elevate the emirate's real estate landscape,' Ataya commented.
Looking ahead: Sharjah and beyond
Alef is now preparing for expansion both within Sharjah and across the UAE. Plans include branded residences in partnership with global developers, aimed at raising the bar for luxury living.
The company is exploring beachfront developments along Sharjah's western and eastern coasts. One of the upcoming projects will be on Maryam Island, expanding Alef's footprint along the waterfront.
Two new projects are currently in the conceptual phase and are set to be unveiled later this year. While full details are under wraps, the direction is clear: Alef will continue building smart, resilient, and community-driven spaces.
Its ambitions mirror a broader shift in the UAE's property landscape — where innovation, liveability, and long-term sustainability have become essential pillars, not just aspirational goals.