Latest news with #ultraluxury
The National
5 days ago
- Business
- The National
Aldar sells Abu Dhabi's 'most expensive home' for $109m
Abu Dhabi developer Aldar has sold an eight-bedroom ultra-luxury mansion for Dh400 million ($109 million), which it described as the " most valued home ever sold" in the UAE capital. Located in beachfront project Faya Al Saadiyat, the mansion offers the largest allocation of space, on Saadiyat Island, spanning 6,561 square metres, Aldar said in a statement on Thursday. Its amenities include a private car gallery, a golf simulator and an in-house cinema, as well as wellness and fitness suites. It also offers direct access to a beach. The sale comes amid robust growth in Abu Dhabi's luxury real estate market, driven by rising demand from high-net-worth individuals, long-term residents and international investors, the company said. "Saadiyat Island continues to attract homebuyers and investors from around the world," said Jonathan Emery, chief executive at Aldar Development. "This sustained momentum reflects the success of Abu Dhabi's long-term vision, enabled by progressive government policies, long-term residency initiatives and strategic investment in infrastructure, culture, and entertainment.' Millionaire investors are increasingly looking towards Abu Dhabi property. The UAE capital is home to the highest number of luxury properties on sale in the country, with 352 homes for sale valued above $1 million, a recent report by real estate developer Bloom Holding found. The highest property price growth in the country between 2020 and 2025 was in Abu Dhabi, with growth of 202 per cent, and 8,490 properties on sale increasing in value, the report found. Low taxes and substantial sovereign wealth, along with high living standards, were listed as significant factors in attracting ultra-high-net-worth individuals to Abu Dhabi for long-term property investments. Abu Dhabi's population has also increased from 2.7 million in 2014 to more than 4.1 million in 2024. In the first three months of 2025, total real estate transactions in Abu Dhabi grew by 34.5 per cent annually, climbing to Dh25.3 billion, according to the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (Adrec). The number of property deals during the period also increased more than 19 per cent to 6,896. Adrec is focused on "upholding strong governance and regulatory oversight" of the sector, said Ghazi Al Otaibi, executive director of the real estate transactions sector at Adrec. "Transactions of this scale reflect the strength of a maturing market and the effectiveness of a regulatory framework we've put in place designed to support and attract responsible, high-value investment.' The latest sale follows the Dh137 million sale of Aldar's Nobu Residences Abu Dhabi penthouse on Saadiyat Island in March last year. Aldar said it recorded Dh5 billion in sales on Saadiyat Island in the first half of this year. Foreign residents accounted for 86 per cent of buyers, including 46 per cent residents and 40 per cent non-residents. The buyers were mainly nationals of Russia, France, the UK, China and the US. Faya Al Saadiyat is an exclusive luxury gated community with 21 homes, including two eight-bedroom mansions and 19 six to seven-bedroom villas, scheduled for completion in 2028. It is being designed by 1508 London Interior Design Studio and Nordic Office Architects.
Zawya
6 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
AED 400mln mansion at Aldar's Faya Al Saadiyat breaks Abu Dhabi record
Located directly on Saadiyat Island's pristine beach and within the award-winning Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, the eight-bedroom mansion features a private car gallery, a golf simulator, an in-house cinema, and sophisticated wellness and fitness suites The milestone transaction follows the sale of a penthouse at Nobu Residences Abu Dhabi for AED 137 million in 2024 Abu Dhabi, UAE – Aldar announced today the record-breaking sale of an eight-bedroom ultra-luxury mansion in Faya Al Saadiyat—an exclusive beachfront community located on one of the last remaining villa plots on Saadiyat Island—for AED 400 million, making it the most valued home ever sold in Abu Dhabi. The sale reflects the sustained growth of Abu Dhabi's luxury real estate market, driven by strong demand from high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), long-term residents, and international investors. It follows the AED 137 million sale of Aldar's Nobu Residences Abu Dhabi penthouse on Saadiyat Island. With Abu Dhabi's population surpassing four million, Saadiyat Island has established itself as the most sought-after destination in the emirate. In H1 2025, Aldar recorded AED 5 billion in sales on Saadiyat Island, reflecting exceptional interest from local and international buyers. Expatriates accounted for 86% of buyers, including 46% residents and 40% non-residents, with the top nationalities comprising Russia, France, United Kingdom, China and United States. Located directly on Saadiyat Island's pristine beach and within the award-winning Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, the Faya Al Saadiyat mansion offers the highest standards of luxury and the largest allocation of space on the island, spanning 6,561 sqm. This signature ultra-luxury residence blends architectural sophistication with complete privacy and uninterrupted 360-degree views of water and greenery. Jonathan Emery, Chief Executive Officer at Aldar Development, said: 'This record transaction at Faya Al Saadiyat sets a new benchmark for luxury real estate in Abu Dhabi and underscores the strong demand for ultra-premium, beachfront homes in the emirate. Recognised as the crown jewel of Abu Dhabi's luxury real estate, Saadiyat Island continues to attract homebuyers and investors from around the world. This sustained momentum reflects the success of Abu Dhabi's long-term vision, enabled by progressive government policies, long-term residency initiatives, and strategic investment in infrastructure, culture, and entertainment.' Ghazi Saeed Al Ateibi, Executive Director Real Estate Transactions Sector at ADREC, said: 'Abu Dhabi is recognized as a world leading destination for global real estate investments, driven by growing trust in a market that is well-regulated, transparent, and investor-friendly. At ADREC, our role is to safeguard this ecosystem by upholding strong governance, regulatory oversight, and seamless processes across the sector. Transactions of this scale reflect the strength of a maturing market and the effectiveness of a regulatory framework we've put in place designed to support and attract responsible, high-value investment.' Behind the striking contemporary façade, the mansion redefines bespoke living with a collection of world-class amenities, including a private car gallery, a golf simulator, an in-house cinema, and sophisticated wellness and fitness suites, alongside direct access to one of the UAE's most desirable beaches. Faya Al Saadiyat is thoughtfully designed by the globally acclaimed 1508 London Interior Design Studio—renowned for crafting the interiors of The OWO Residences by Raffles, part of the iconic transformation of London's historic Old War Office—and Nordic Office Architects, a homegrown design studio known for reshaping regional skylines with globally informed design. The design draws inspiration from Saadiyat Island's natural beauty and distinctive wildlife, combining indigenous materials with minimalist aesthetics and expansive open-plan layouts. This architectural masterpiece features Italian-made kitchens and wardrobes, bespoke joinery, and state-of-the-art appliances. Outdoors, a private beachfront pool anchors expansive living and recreational areas, framing serene views of the surrounding golf course and the pristine shores of Saadiyat Beach. Faya Al Saadiyat is an exclusive luxury gated community of 21 super-luxury homes, including two eight-bedroom mansions and 19 six- to seven- bedroom villas, scheduled for completion in 2028. Residents enjoy seamless access to Saadiyat Cultural District, home to world-renowned institutions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, teamLab Phenomena, and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, as well as a curated mix of premium hospitality, retail, and dining offerings, including the highly anticipated Saadiyat Grove. The development is targeting the Estidama 3 Pearl rating and Fitwel certification, with sustainability embedded across the masterplan through features that promote energy efficiency, water conservation, reduced carbon emissions, and enhanced resident well-being. For media enquiries please contact: Obaid Alyammahi Aldar Properties Radwa El Taweel Brunswick Group ALDARCORP@ About Aldar Aldar is the leading real estate developer, manager, and investor in Abu Dhabi, with a growing presence across the United Arab Emirates, the Middle East North Africa, and Europe. The company has two core business segments, Aldar Development and Aldar Investment. Aldar Development is a master developer of a 62 million sqm strategic landbank, creating integrated and thriving communities across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Ras Al Khaimah's most desirable destinations. The delivery of Aldar's developments is managed by Aldar Projects, which is also a key partner of the Abu Dhabi government in delivering housing and infrastructure projects across the UAE's capital. Internationally, Aldar Development wholly owns UK real estate developer London Square, as well as a majority stake in leading Egyptian real estate development company, SODIC. Aldar Investment houses a core asset management business comprising a portfolio of more than AED 46 billion worth of investment grade and income-generating real estate assets diversified across retail, residential, commercial, logistics, and hospitality segments. It manages four core platforms: Aldar Investment Properties, Aldar Hospitality, Aldar Education, and Aldar Estates. For more information on Aldar please visit
Zawya
6 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Arada awards $184.6mln contract to build Armani Beach Residences
Arada has awarded the main construction contract for the ultra-luxury Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah to a subsidiary of global construction giant China Railway Group Ltd (CREC). Valued at AED678 million, the contract will result in the development of the landmark project by the end of 2027. CREC subsidiary China Tiesju Civil Engineering has extensive experience across the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Asia in executing complex projects. The conglomerate's track record of on-time delivery to an exceptional level of quality underscores Arada's commitment to setting a new standard for the high-end Dubai residential market. Designed in partnership with Armani/Casa Interior Design Studio and the Pritzker-Prize-winning Japanese architect Tadao Ando, Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah features panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai's famed skyline, as well as 90,000 square feet of high-quality amenities and 57 individually designed homes. Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said, 'This appointment marks a key step forward for a project that stands as one of Dubai's most anticipated ultra-luxury developments, and is in line with our promise to work with world-class partners on this landmark project. Set against the iconic backdrop of Palm Jumeirah, Armani Beach Residences reflects Arada's ambition to deliver exceptional design, craftsmanship, and a truly elevated lifestyle experience.' Launched in 2024, Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah has set a new benchmark for design-led ultra-luxury beachfront living in Dubai, combining minimalism, natural harmony and refined detail with impressive views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai's skyline from the outer crescent of the iconic man-made islands.
Zawya
7 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Arada awards AED678mln construction contract for Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah to China Railway Group subsidiary
First phase of construction is complete with enabling, piling and shoring works finished Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Arada has awarded the main construction contract for the ultra-luxury Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah to a subsidiary of global construction giant China Railway Group Ltd (CREC). Valued at AED678 million, the contract will result in the development of the landmark project by the end of 2027. CREC subsidiary China Tiesju Civil Engineering has extensive experience across the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Asia in executing complex projects. The conglomerate's track record of on-time delivery to an exceptional level of quality underscores Arada's commitment to setting a new standard for the high-end Dubai residential market. Designed in partnership with Armani/Casa Interior Design Studio and the Pritzker-Prize-winning Japanese architect Tadao Ando, Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah features panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai's famed skyline, as well as 90,000 square feet of high-quality amenities and 57 individually designed homes. Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said: 'This appointment marks a key step forward for a project that stands as one of Dubai's most anticipated ultra-luxury developments, and is in line with our promise to work with world-class partners on this landmark project. Set against the iconic backdrop of Palm Jumeirah, Armani Beach Residences reflects Arada's ambition to deliver exceptional design, craftsmanship, and a truly elevated lifestyle experience.' Launched in 2024, Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah has set a new benchmark for design-led ultra-luxury beachfront living in Dubai, combining minimalism, natural harmony and refined detail with impressive views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai's skyline from the outer crescent of the iconic man-made islands. Every beautifully appointed home is defined by a desire to bring extravagant ocean and skyline views into its interior, with a wide array of configurations including including two-, three-, four-, five-bedroom and penthouse residences all offering unrestrained access to the exterior view. Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah also includes two presidential suites, which combine numerous different internal function areas – including a contemplative courtyard space with reflective pool, a personalised gym, libraries, a private cinema, and a private parking lounge with space for seven cars – with an opulent mega-terrace featuring an infinity pool. Buyers of penthouses and presidential suites will have the opportunity to work directly with Armani/Casa to deliver a truly bespoke interior scheme for their homes. The project was named Best Branded Residence at Robb Report's Best of the Best 2024 and also won Waterfront Project of the Year at the 2024 Pillars of Real Estate Awards. The show apartment for Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah is available for viewing at the Arada sales office in City Walk. About Arada Launched in 2017 and headquartered in the UAE, Arada was created to build spaces people connect with for healthier, happier and more meaningful lives. Arada's scope of operation covers property development, retail, education, healthcare, fitness, wellness and hospitality. The master developer has so far launched nine record-breaking communities in the UAE and has expanded into the Australian market, opening an office in Sydney in 2024. Arada also operates a portfolio of complementary brands and experiences, which includes large-scale gyms, F&B and retail assets, social initiatives and visitor destinations. For more information and high-resolution images contact media@ For more information about Arada:
Forbes
21-07-2025
- Automotive
- Forbes
Don't Let The Bentley Flying Spur Fool You. It's As Fun As It Is Fancy
The new Bentley Flying Spur The Bentley Flying Spur might be the most fun car I've ever driven and I almost missed the chance. With a name and a reputation steeped in legacy, one that seems quaint and stuffy for its continued embrace of the past, the four-door five passenger ultra-luxury sedan seemed to me better suited for the chauffeured elite than the daily driver; I expected it would be fun to look at but less so to drive. However, with a 771 hp electric-boosted powertrain (and a slightly less powerful hybrid option) I had to take a spin. I expected it would be powerful and quiet in a large, lumbering sort of way. I was completely, and delightfully, wrong. Despite A Design Palette I Wouldn't Choose, I Was Smitten Design in a car like the Bentley Flying Spur is everything: It can comprise a significant portion of the cost; it is highly customizable and very personal. Once you plop down several hundred thousand and endure a months-long wait for a car, it better be to your liking. So when I took a look at the gray Flying Spur with an orange-accented gray interior, I thought, well, this isn't for me. But soon the details seeped in and I began to see the brilliance. The exterior Blackline Specification accents that surround the cut crystal headlights, split the hood and grille and span its lower quarters create a yacht-like feel as if it's slicing through the water, or in this case, air. Inside, Mandarin leather and stitching add an architectural feel to the tone-on-tone gray, chrome and gloss black, highlighting the the seats, the dash surround and 3D diamond leather door panels. It seems stark in photos, and that was my first reaction. But it's quite elegant once you put yourself at the center of the cabin and feel how the gray leather soothes and the orange excites; it's subdued and effervescent at the same time. And it was unexpected and appreciated. I never got tired of it. The drivers seat in our Bentley Flying Spur Speed test model Power Underfoot Lets You Fly Away From It All With two updated powertrains to choose from, the Bentley Flying Spur lineup, with four models, is now complete. Buyers can choose from the base model Flying Spur, which starts at about $250,000 or upgrade to the comfort-focused Azure model, both of which carry the brand's new twin turbo V8 hybrid engine that generates 671 hp and 686 pound-feet of torque. Or, buyers can opt for the faster and more powerful Flying Spur Speed with a starting price of about $272,000, or the ultimate in design, the Mulliner model, which starts at just under $300,000. These two are powered by the same plug-in hybrid electric-boosted twin turbo V8 engine found in the Bentley Continental Speed; it generates 771 hp and 738 pound-feet of torque. Both engines out-produce the power of the former W12 engine, a 12-cylinder powerhouse that had legions of fans. However, Bentley happily reports, the new hybrid V8s are winning over fans and outselling the former models. Buyers of the Speed and Mulliner models get another benefit: To be able to drive about 37 miles on all electric power, a bonus for those who don't love stops at the gas station. Even with all the hybrid power under the hood, the twin turbo V8 engine is still a thirsty beast; average fuel economy is estimated at about 20 MPG. The rear end of our Bentley Flying Spur Speed Driving The Bentley Flying Spur Is Incredibly Fun After driving both the Azure and the Speed (our Speed test model was priced at about $366,000 with options) I found that both deliver a quiet start, a throaty throttle response in sport mode and complete confidence on the highway. The only real question is, which Bentley Flying Spur to choose? This is really about personal preference more than powertrain; they are both incredibly capable. The throaty engine sound wasn't too much of a surprise; V8 engines are known for that. What was a surprise was the agile, easy and when asked, responsive drive experience that this sedan delivers. Even though the cabin is roomy and sublimely outfitted for luxury with options like reclining massaging front and rear seats and personal electronics for all passengers, Bentley's designers managed to keep the overall dimensions of the Flying Spur on the smaller side; its 209' length feels sleek thanks to wide-set wheels, a sloped roofline and rounded corners. Around town and on the highway, the Flying Spur was effortless to drive. But when I needed to pass slower traffic I seemed to only need ask and the Flying Spur obliged, zipping past other cars without hesitation. It never felt like an overwhelming amount of power but plenty to accomplish the task. And this is what made it so fun. Once you discover how easily the Flying Spur throws you back in your seat, you'll want to do it over and over. Being tossed back into the bolstered, channel-stitched leather seats is an incredible feeling and part of what makes this car so special. Even your rear seat passengers will feel thrill rather than annoyance, as I found out when ferrying my family around New Jersey, New York and Connecticut during my test drive. The Bentley Flying Spur Speed hood sculpture This Luxury Sedan Has An Actual Flying Spur On the multimedia screen you'll find an option to 'reveal or conceal' the Bentley Flying B, the only hood sculpture in the Bentley family. Press 'reveal' and a panel over the compartment moves over to allow the crystal and metal ornament to extend, its inner light shimmering over the grille. Press 'conceal' and it retracts into the hood. The Flying Spur, both the model's name and the icon, are an homage to the lineage of Arthur Johnstone, an original managing director of H.J. Mulliner coachbuilders. His family's crest is a flying spur, which signifies readiness and speed, and is derived from a spur that was delivered to Robert the Bruce to warn him to prepare for battle for the borders of Scotland; the crest was later awarded to the Johnstone family when Bruce became King of Scotland. Speed and readiness certainly define the modern Bentley Flying Spur. But so do quiet, comfort and luxury. What doesn't define it is lumbering stuffiness. Not just its ability to create an exciting interior and exterior, but by its sculpted nature that makes it more agile, sleek and drivable. Now in its fourth generation and celebrating 20 years since its modern re-introduction in 2005, don't dismiss the Bentley Flying Spur as your grandma's luxury car. I almost did and I would have missed out on one of the most fun cars on the road.
