There is no doubt that the UAE is home to some spectacular properties. From penthouse apartments to plush villas with sprawling gardens and incredible pools, it’s a real estate haven.
Each week, The National showcases some of the best homes on offer in its Property of the Week. This week, we take a look at a palatial mansion located in The Grove, Dubai Hills.
The key details
The nine-bedroom property is located in the newly developed Dubai Hills. It is spread across three floors and 24,000 square feet. If it sells for the Dh78 million asking price, it will be the most expensive villa sold in the emirate this year, as per the Dubai Land Department.
What's the story?
This modern Mediterranean-style mansion is perhaps best described as an estate, rather than a home. Easy to mistake as a boutique hotel rather than a private residence, the new owner will be able to make the most of the generous outdoor space and vast indoor living area.
The 24,000-square-foot home is set within a 33,000-square-foot plot, offering views of the Dubai Hills Golf Club from over its generous multilevel pool.
The double-height entrance opens out to a courtyard. This property is made for outdoor living; pool aside, it has manicured gardens; an air-conditioned pool house cabana, with changing rooms and a Jacuzzi; and an outdoor dining area with a bar, kitchen and plenty of seating.
On the ground floor, you'll find formal and informal living rooms, a family room, dining room and kitchen, as well as three of the guest bedrooms and staff quarters.
The property is built over three storeys, all of which are connected with a lift. When it comes to entertaining, the basement stands out, offering as it does a private cinema, games room, cigar lounge and bar. It also has a spa, gym, powder room and library, as well as underground parking for six cars.
The first floor houses the family accommodation. The master bedroom comes with terrace access, and his and hers walk-in-closets. This level also has four more bedrooms and a family room.
What the brokers say ...
What about Dubai Hills appeals to a high-end buyer?
Dubai Hills is one of the most prestigious communities for an ultra high-net-worth individual to purchase a property. As a new neighbourhood, it has a very modern feel. It is a very peaceful, private, family-friendly community, with plenty of green spaces, a world-class golf course and club, and you have homes of this nature that match a truly opulent lifestyle.
What about this home, and its price point, makes it stand out?
So far, the most expensive villa sold this year was a Dubai Hills mansion for Dh75m. There are other villas at a more expensive price point. However, this Dubai Hills mansion with its high-end finishing and attention to detail is considered well priced for a turn-key villa.
How long has this property been on the market?
The property was on the market earlier this year, but was removed during the initial outbreak of the pandemic. We have only gone back to market last month.
This villa feels almost like a boutique resort. Is that something that appeals to buyers?
With the ongoing pandemic, we have observed that many potential home buyers are looking for larger spaces to cater to their needs, with families requiring bigger home offices, a gym, cinema and entertainment rooms. Many high-end buyers have realised that they need a turn-key home that offers them the best of luxury and space. This home fits the bill, it has plenty of different areas, for work, relaxation and entertainment.
Which of the home's modern features stand out to buyers the most?
Each potential buyer has their own requirements. There's a lot of kudos to be given to the owner and designer to have thought through and designed it so meticulously. It's versatile enough in style to appeal to almost any high-end buyer. The ideal buyer would be someone with a love for Mediterranean architecture, the finer things in life and an appreciation for work-life balance. It's a very well-rounded villa.
Leigh Borg, Managing Director at Luxhabitat Sotheby's International Realty
