Dubai Holding has awarded the largest construction contract in its history, committing AED5 billion to the development of its new corporate headquarters. The deal also covers the Jumeirah Residences Emirates Towers project in Dubai.
The agreement with China State Construction Engineering Corporation Middle East, or CSCEC ME, was signed in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Holding. Moreover, the scale of the contract adds another major development to Dubai’s pipeline. The emirate continues investing in commercial property, luxury residences and infrastructure that supports its position as an international business hub.
AED5 Billion Contract Becomes Dubai Holding’s Largest to Date
At AED5 billion, the agreement represents the biggest single construction contract Dubai Holding has awarded to date. It covers both the group’s future headquarters and the Jumeirah Residences Emirates Towers development. As a result, this brings together a major corporate project and a large branded residential scheme under one construction package.
The size of the investment is significant beyond the buildings themselves. In addition, large developments around established commercial districts help strengthen Dubai’s wider proposition for international companies, investors and professionals looking for long-term opportunities in the emirate.
Dubai Holding said its activities have enabled economic activity equivalent to 30% of Dubai’s GDP over more than two decades. Sheikh Ahmed described the latest investment as part of a broader strategy focused on deploying capital into assets that support growth and create long-term value.
New Dubai Holding Headquarters Scheduled to Open in 2029
Dubai Holding’s new headquarters is expected to open in 2029 and will bring the group’s businesses together in a single corporate environment. The move is intended to create a more connected workplace. At the same time, it will give the company a highly visible presence in one of Dubai’s best-known commercial areas.
Architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill designed the headquarters around a distinctive circular form, with an open-air central atrium, landscaped courtyard and expansive terraces. The design places collaboration and interaction at the centre of the workplace. It does this rather than treating the building as a conventional office tower.
Sustainability, technology and employee wellbeing will also play a major role in the project. Dubai Holding intends for the building to meet leading international sustainability and wellbeing standards. Moreover, the project aims to improve resource efficiency and support a lower-carbon future.
Jumeirah Residences Emirates Towers Adds 754 Branded Homes
The AED5 billion agreement also advances Jumeirah Residences Emirates Towers, a luxury residential development featuring 754 branded residences across two towers.
Developed by Meraas and designed by SCDA Architects, the project will combine contemporary architecture with Jumeirah’s hospitality and service offering. In addition, residents are expected to have access to lifestyle, wellness and leisure experiences. The location will be connected to several of Dubai’s key business, cultural and entertainment destinations.
The development is scheduled for handover in 2030. Its position near Emirates Towers makes it particularly notable. This is because the project sits within a major commercial district rather than a purely residential destination.
Branded residences have become an increasingly visible part of Dubai’s high-end property market. The project adds another premium offering to a segment already attracting strong interest from international investors and high-net-worth buyers.
CSCEC Middle East Secures Major Dubai Construction Projects
CSCEC Middle East will carry out construction of both developments. The company has operated in the UAE since 2003 and has completed more than 110 large-scale projects across the Gulf. These have covered residential, commercial, hospitality and infrastructure developments.
Its parent company, China State Construction Engineering Corporation, is one of the world’s major construction and investment groups. The award further strengthens CSCEC ME’s presence in Dubai’s large-scale construction market.
Tian Sanchuan, Chairman of CSCEC ME, pointed to Dubai’s business environment as an important part of the company’s growth in the emirate. He said the latest developments reinforce the company’s confidence in Dubai’s economic outlook. These projects also affirm belief in Dubai’s long-term development plans.
The contract also reflects the growing role of major international contractors in the UAE. Dubai continues moving ahead with capital-intensive commercial, residential and infrastructure projects.
What the Investment Means for Dubai’s Business Environment
Although the developments are not free zone projects in the traditional sense, the AED5 billion commitment remains relevant to the wider business ecosystem. It also supports companies that establish or expand operations in Dubai.
Office supply, residential options, transport access and quality-of-life infrastructure all influence where businesses choose to locate regional operations. Dubai’s free zones compete globally for companies and talent. However, their appeal is also shaped by the broader environment surrounding them.
A new landmark headquarters and hundreds of premium residences near one of Dubai’s established commercial districts therefore contribute to that wider proposition. They add more corporate and residential capacity. Furthermore, they strengthen an area already closely associated with business activity.
Dubai Holding Group CEO Amit Kaushal said the company is pursuing a growth strategy focused on strengthening its portfolio. The firm is also developing high-quality assets and creating sustainable long-term value. He also described the headquarters as an important part of the group’s next phase of development.
Dubai Continues Building for Long-Term Growth
Dubai’s latest construction pipeline is about more than adding another pair of towers to the skyline. Projects of this scale form part of a wider effort to expand the commercial, residential and lifestyle infrastructure needed by a city. This expansion is key for a city competing for global companies, investors and skilled professionals.
The AED5 billion contract stands out because of both its size and its mix of uses. One project will create a future corporate hub for Dubai Holding. Meanwhile, the other will add 754 branded residences to the same prominent part of the city.
With the headquarters expected to open in 2029 and Jumeirah Residences Emirates Towers scheduled for handover in 2030, both developments are positioned to become part of Dubai’s next phase of commercial and urban expansion.
Sources
Government of Dubai Media Office — Ahmed bin Saeed witnesses signing of Dubai Holding’s landmark AED5 billion construction contract.