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 luxury penthouse in Downtown Dubai.
The key details
With sleek, clean and contemporary decor, this six-bedroom property is located in the luxury Downtown Dubai building, The 118. The penthouse apartment spans 11,598 square feet and offers views of Dubai Fountain and the glittering Sheikh Zayed Road skyline.
What's the story?
As far as luxury living goes, a Downtown Dubai penthouse apartment that spans the entire floor has to be close to the top of the list.
The six-bedroom property is located in The 118 Downtown Dubai, which is located across the Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard from The Dubai Mall, and all of its high-end shopping, dining and entertainment facilities.
Hirsch Bedner Associates, an American international hospitality design company, has taken care of the contemporary interiors. The minimalist and modern decor speaks for itself, with rooms dressed elegantly in white, with splashes of statement colour.
The double-height ceiling in the living area gives the already generously sized property the feeling of abundant space.
In keeping with a VIP address and price tag, the property is accessed by private elevator. The entrance corridor then leads directly to the open-plan living room, with a private outdoor terrace that boasts panoramic views of Downtown Dubai.
Each of the six bedrooms have en suite bathrooms and the master suite comes complete with a private terrace.
The sleek and well-contained kitchen is kitted out with white cabinets, a grey marble counter and a sizeable island, with space to sit. The property has been finished with high-end names, including Kohler and Miele, as well as luxury German brand SieMatic in the kitchen.
Within the building, there are 26 single-unit apartments with two penthouses. The first apartment can be found on the 14th floor, so even the lowest-set home has a great view.
The 118 offers the luxurious shared facilities you'd expect to find in a property of this ilk. There is a 4,000 sq ft sunset lounge; a temperature-controlled swimming pool with a skyline backdrop and a fitness centre with steam room and sauna; and a 20,000 sq ft rooftop poolside garden deck.
Within the development, there is also designated chauffeur accommodation, a 24-hour reception and security.
What the brokers say ...
What makes this property stand out?
The fact that it is a luxurious urban sanctuary right next to the largest mall in the world shows that you can have the best of both worlds. The 118 building, as a whole, stands out. To have one apartment per floor in a building so close to The Dubai Mall and in the heart of Dubai is unheard of. With only 28 units, it takes privacy and exclusivity to the next level.
Does the property have a particular view?
Instead of focusing on the Burj Khalifa, the best view is of the fountains and beyond, including the sea, Jumeirah as a whole and the Sheikh Zayed Road skyline.
What advantages does penthouse living have over villa living?
You can easily close up and toss the keys to the concierge and that just does not happen in a villa. You have your privacy as well as shared services, so you don’t have to worry about people walking into your house to access the pool or a garden. This highlights the safety of penthouse living, even though Dubai is an extremely safe city.
What kind of buyer has this property attracted?
Buyers who appreciate luxury but will not compromise on location and space – for most buyers this is their second or third home.
Are there any comparable properties in the UAE right now?
I would say Le Reve but that is in Dubai Marina; in Downtown, the only name that comes to mind is Il Primo [by Emaar], which is still under construction.
How in demand is the Downtown area?
Downtown Dubai has done well during the Covid-19 pandemic, as there are many options at walking distance, particularly at The Dubai Mall, without taking a car or public transport. The vibe of Downtown is indescribable – there is always something happening and people are discovering new restaurants and shops every week.
Does the property have any private facilities?
You can book a private massage with your choice of masseuse or book out the rooftop or garden at the pool for a dinner with your friends and family. A meeting room can be booked only for you or your business meetings.
Leigh Williamson, managing director of the Four Seasons Office at luxhabitat.ae
