Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah
Complete Area & Property Guide
Al Marjan Island is one of the most talked-about waterfront destinations in the UAE, a man-made archipelago stretching 4.5 kilometres into the Arabian Gulf and rapidly establishing itself as a premier address for property investors and coastal lifestyle seekers alike. With the UAE’s first gaming resort under construction and billions of dirhams of development transforming the island, Al Marjan has moved firmly onto the international investment map.
This guide provides a clear, practical overview of Al Marjan Island, covering its layout, property types, prices, rental yields, lifestyle facilities, and how it compares to other key areas in Ras Al Khaimah.
Al Marjan Island Area Guide – Contents
What Is Al Marjan Island?
Al Marjan Island is a master-planned man-made archipelago located off the coast of Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. Built across four coral-shaped islands: Breeze Island, Treasure Island, Dream Island, and View Island, the development covers a total area of approximately 2.7 million square metres and offers nearly 8 kilometres of white sandy beaches along the Arabian Gulf.
Originally conceived as a mixed-use hospitality and residential destination, Al Marjan Island has undergone significant transformation in recent years. The announcement of the Wynn Al Marjan Island resort, which will house the UAE’s first licensed gaming facility when it opens in 2027, triggered a sharp surge in international investor interest and has reshaped the island’s position within the wider UAE property market.
Al Marjan Island is a designated freehold zone, meaning international buyers can purchase and fully own property here regardless of nationality.
Key highlights:
- Four interconnected islands extending 4.5 km into the Arabian Gulf
- Nearly 8 km of white sandy beaches and a palm-lined corniche
- Home to the UAE’s first gaming resort, Wynn Al Marjan Island (opening 2027)
- Multiple five-star hotels including Waldorf Astoria, DoubleTree by Hilton, Rixos Bab Al Bahr, and Sofitel
- Growing portfolio of branded residences and off-plan developments
- Freehold ownership available to international buyers
- Host venue for the RAK Half Marathon, one of the world’s fastest half marathons
Al Marjan Island Location & Connectivity
Al Marjan Island is accessed via Marjan Island Boulevard, which connects to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Salem Road (E11). The island sits at the northern edge of Ras Al Khaimah’s coastline, close to the Umm Al Quwain border.
Approximate travel times:
- Al Hamra Village: 8 minutes
- Mina Al Arab: 10–15 minutes
- Ras Al Khaimah city centre: 20–25 minutes
- RAK International Airport: 28–30 minutes
- Dubai International Airport: 45–50 minutes
- Sharjah International Airport: 40 minutes
The island offers a genuine coastal escape while remaining well connected to the wider UAE. Dubai is reachable in under an hour via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) or Emirates Road (E611), making Al Marjan Island a viable option for those who visit Dubai regularly but prefer to live at a quieter pace.
Public transport on the island is limited, with no dedicated bus stations and the nearest RAK Bus Station approximately 30 minutes away. Most residents rely on private vehicles or taxis, and access to a car is recommended.
Properties on Al Marjan Island
Al Marjan Island’s property market is dominated by apartments, with a growing selection of villas and townhouses across the archipelago. Residential development is concentrated primarily on View Island and Breeze Island.
Apartments
- Studios through to four-bedroom apartments and five-bedroom penthouses
- Floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies are standard across most developments
- Panoramic Arabian Gulf views widely available
- Popular established sub-communities include Pacific (six towers on View Island), Bab Al Bahr Residences (Breeze Island), and Marjan Island Resort & Spa Residences
- A substantial pipeline of branded and off-plan projects is currently under development
Villas & Townhouses
- Villas range from four-bedroom family homes to seven-bedroom beachfront estates
- Many feature private pools, landscaped gardens, and direct beach or waterfront access
- Townhouses and duplexes offer an intermediate option with private terraces and shared community facilities
- Suited to families and buyers seeking more space and seclusion within an island setting
Serviced & Hotel Residences
A distinctive feature of Al Marjan Island is the volume of hotel-linked residential units, where buyers can own a property managed by an international hospitality operator. These include existing options within Rixos Bab Al Bahr and DoubleTree by Hilton, as well as upcoming branded residences linked to Wynn, JW Marriott, Nikki Beach, and others.
Active Off-Plan Pipeline (as of mid-2026)
- Jacob & Co Residences — from AED 1M, delivery Q2 2028
- Costa Mare (Ellington) — from AED 2.8M, delivery Q3 2028
- Palazzo Tissoli — from AED 1.1M, delivery Q2 2028
- Gianfranco Ferré Residences — from AED 1.2M, delivery Q1 2028
- Le Chateau — from AED 2.2M, delivery Q4 2029
- Shoreline by DAMAC — average AED 2.85M, delivery July 2028
- Waldorf Astoria Residences — from AED 8.4M, delivery Q1 2027
- Wynn Al Marjan Island — multibillion-dollar resort, opening 2027
Al Marjan Island Property Prices
Property prices on Al Marjan Island have risen significantly in recent years, driven by strong investor demand and the transformative effect of the Wynn Resort announcement. The island experienced approximately 33% year-on-year price growth in 2024, with a further 20% growth pacing through 2025.
Indicative Price Ranges (Apartments for Sale)
- Studios: from approximately AED 490,000–1,200,000 (420–600 sq ft)
- 1-bedroom: from approximately AED 650,000–2,750,000 (720–980 sq ft)
- 2-bedroom: from approximately AED 760,000–3,900,000 (1,100–1,400 sq ft)
- 3-bedroom: from approximately AED 1,000,000–6,700,000 (1,800–2,200 sq ft)
- Penthouses and 4-bedroom+: AED 4,000,000 and above
Villas and townhouses:
- 2-bedroom townhouses: from approximately AED 4,800,000
- 3-bedroom townhouses: from approximately AED 9,000,000
- 3-bedroom villas: from approximately AED 10,100,000
- 4-bedroom villas: from approximately AED 15,850,000
- Premium beachfront villas: AED 19,000,000+
Average price per square foot across the island broadly ranges from AED 1,200 to AED 2,700/sqft depending on development age, brand affiliation, and proximity to the Wynn site. This remains significantly below comparable waterfront property in Dubai, where prices typically range from AED 3,500 to AED 5,500/sqft.
The wide spread between older ready units and new off-plan launches means buyers can find entry points at very different price levels depending on their objectives and timeframe.
Investment Potential & Rental Yields
Al Marjan Island is currently one of the most actively discussed investment locations in the UAE, driven by a combination of strong rental returns, rapid capital appreciation, and the transformative impact of upcoming mega-developments.
Why investors are choosing Al Marjan Island
- Rental yields between 6% and 10% for apartments, with studios and one-bedroom units achieving the upper end
- Property values increased by approximately 33% year-on-year in 2024, with 20% growth continuing into 2025
- The Wynn Resort opening in 2027 is widely expected to act as a further catalyst for both rental income and capital appreciation
- RAK recorded over AED 2.4 billion in off-plan residential sales in Q1 2025
- RAK-wide residential prices rose 39% year-on-year in Q1 2025
- Record 1.3 million visitors to Ras Al Khaimah in 2024, with continued tourism growth expected as Wynn opens
- Strong short-term rental (Airbnb) performance, with average daily rates of approximately USD 180 and gross yields reaching 9–12% for well-managed units
Indicative Annual Rental Ranges (Apartments)
- Studio: AED 35,000–50,000 per year
- 1-bedroom: AED 44,000–96,000 per year (range reflects older vs. newer stock)
- 2-bedroom: AED 70,000–90,000 per year
- 3-bedroom: AED 100,000–130,000 per year
Furnished units and those with unobstructed sea views consistently achieve the upper end of rental ranges. The expansion of tourism infrastructure, hotels, the corniche, the Wynn Resort is expected to sustain and grow short-stay rental demand significantly once the resort opens.
Investor Benefits in Ras Al Khaimah
- 0% personal income tax
- 100% foreign ownership rights in freehold zones
- 100% repatriation of capital and profits
- Long-term UAE residency visa eligibility for qualifying property purchases
- RAK holds investment-grade ratings from both S&P and Fitch
Lifestyle & Amenities
Al Marjan Island is primarily a hospitality-led destination, with lifestyle infrastructure built around its hotel and resort offering. As residential development matures, the balance between resort and community living is evolving.
Hotels & Resorts
- Wynn Al Marjan Island (opening 2027) — over 1,000 rooms, the UAE’s first gaming facility, world-class dining and entertainment
- DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island — five outdoor pools, Chuckles Kids’ Club, private beach
- Rixos Bab Al Bahr — all-inclusive five-star resort, pyramid-shaped buildings on Breeze Island
- Marjan Island Resort & Spa — private beach, three pools, seven restaurants
- Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island — the world’s largest Hampton hotel, 515 rooms
- Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah Marjan Island — six dining outlets, spa, dedicated kids’ pool
- Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island — 300-metre beach, three outdoor pools, wellness hub
- Rove Al Marjan Island — opened 2024, 441 modern beachfront rooms
- Nobu Al Marjan Island (upcoming) — second Nobu hotel in the UAE
Beaches & Waterfront
- Over 7 km of sandy beaches across the four islands
- Al Marjan Corniche — a palm-lined promenade running the length of the island
- Turtle Beach (Treasure Island) — a natural spot where sea turtles can be spotted, with water sports equipment hire
- Public beach access alongside private hotel beach clubs
Dining
- Vespa Ristorante (Italian, DoubleTree by Hilton)
- Claw BBQ RAK (Hampton by Hilton)
- Karma Kafé RAK by Buddha Bar (Al Marjan Boulevard)
- Lalezar (Turkish, Rixos Bab Al Bahr)
- Salt (casual beachside dining)
- Multiple fine-dining outlets within hotel properties
Shopping & Everyday Needs
- Al Hamra Mall is the primary retail destination, accessible in approximately 4 minutes — over 120 stores, Spinneys, VOX Cinemas
- Zoom Supermarket and Fresh Plus Grocery within Bab Al Bahr and Pacific
- Boardwalk Supermarket and Leptis Fresh Supermarket on the island
- Manar Mall and RAK Mall accessible within 30–40 minutes
Fitness, Wellness & Outdoor Activities
- Al Marjan Corniche cycling and running tracks with Gulf views
- RAK Half Marathon — hosted annually on Al Marjan Island each February, acclaimed as one of the world’s fastest half marathons
- Water sports including jet skiing, parasailing, banana boating, scuba diving, and catamaran cruises
- Fully equipped gyms and spa facilities within all major hotels
- Electric scooter hire available for exploring the promenades
Schools & Nurseries
Al Marjan Island does not currently have schools on the island itself. Families can access the following nearby institutions:
- RAK Academy (International Baccalaureate, approximately 10–15 minutes)
- New British International School (British curriculum)
- International School of Choueifat Ras Al Khaimah
- Little Treasures Nursery
- Red Bus Nursery
- Al Hamra Nursery
Healthcare
- RAK Medical Centre Al Hamra (approximately 7–10 minutes)
- RAK Medical Centre Al Jazeera
- Al Afia Medical Centre
- Sheikh Khalifa Specialty Hospital (approximately 15 minutes)
Places of Worship
- Al Marjan Island Mosque (on the island)
- Additional mosques accessible within 10 minutes, including Masjid Umar bin Al-Khathab and Al Iman Mosque
- St Luke Anglican Church in nearby Al Jazeera Al Hamra
- St Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church (approximately 10–15 minutes)
Al Marjan Island vs. Other RAK Communities
Understanding how Al Marjan Island sits within the wider Ras Al Khaimah market helps buyers and investors make a more informed decision.
Al Marjan Island vs. Al Hamra Village
Al Hamra Village is the more mature and community-oriented of the two, with an established resident base, schools, a golf course, a full marina, and day-to-day retail infrastructure all on-site. Al Marjan Island is more tourism-led and development-focused, with a higher proportion of hotel-linked and off-plan product. Al Hamra Village offers a steadier, more predictable rental income profile; Al Marjan Island offers greater potential for capital appreciation and tourism-driven short-stay returns as the Wynn Resort transforms the destination.
Al Marjan Island vs. Mina Al Arab
Mina Al Arab is a quieter, largely residential waterfront community developed by RAK Properties. It appeals to buyers seeking a calmer, community-focused environment with stable long-term rental demand. Al Marjan Island targets a different buyer — one who is comfortable with a more speculative, tourism-driven investment model and a community that is still evolving. Mina Al Arab has lower price volatility; Al Marjan Island has higher upside potential and higher risk profile.
For buyers focused on lifestyle first and investment second, Al Hamra Village or Mina Al Arab may be the better fit. For investors targeting capital growth and tourism-backed rental income, Al Marjan Island presents a compelling and well-evidenced case.
Typical Apartment Sizes on Al Marjan Island
Al Marjan Island apartments tend to be spacious by UAE standards, particularly in established developments like Pacific and Bab Al Bahr. Understanding typical sizes helps buyers assess value per square foot and match unit type to target rental demand.
Studio Apartments on Al Marjan Island
Studios on Al Marjan Island typically range from approximately 420 to 600 square feet, with some units in older developments such as Pacific running from 445 sq ft. In newer branded residences, studios may be slightly more compact but benefit from higher specifications and views.
Typical features include:
- Open-plan living and sleeping areas
- Fitted kitchen with appliances
- Balcony with sea or garden views in most buildings
- Access to shared pools, gyms, and beach facilities
Studios deliver the strongest rental yields on the island, typically 7.5% to 8.5%+ for well-located, furnished units. They are particularly popular for short-stay and holiday rental strategies given the island’s tourism-led profile.
One-Bedroom Apartments on Al Marjan Island
One-bedroom apartments generally range from approximately 720 to 980 square feet, with some newer developments offering layouts up to around 1,100 sq ft.
Typical features include:
- Separate living and bedroom areas
- Ensuite bedroom with built-in wardrobes
- Guest bathroom
- Private balcony, often with Gulf views
- Shared pool, gym, and landscaped areas
One-bedroom units are among the most liquid on the market, appealing to both long-term residents and short-stay visitors. Rental yields are typically in the range of 6.5% to 8%.
Two-Bedroom Apartments on Al Marjan Island
Two-bedroom apartments generally range from approximately 1,100 to 1,400 square feet, with some larger configurations and beach-facing duplex units extending to 1,650 sq ft or beyond.
Many two-bedroom units offer:
- Dual ensuite bedrooms
- Larger balconies with panoramic views
- Some configurations include a study area
- Access to larger communal pools and children’s play areas
Two-bedroom units attract longer-term tenants and families, providing more stable occupancy when managed as long-term rentals.
Three-Bedroom Apartments and Larger
Three-bedroom apartments on Al Marjan Island span approximately 1,800 to 2,200 square feet in most established developments, with some penthouses and larger configurations extending to 3,500 sq ft+.
In the Pacific complex, for example, penthouses reach up to approximately 3,515 sq ft and represent some of the most premium apartment product on the island. These units attract high-net-worth buyers, holiday home purchasers, and premium short-stay visitors.
How Apartment Size Impacts Investment Performance on Al Marjan Island
The short-term rental market on Al Marjan Island means that smaller, well-located apartments, particularly studios and one-bedroom units, often generate the most competitive yields. Their lower purchase price relative to rental income means the return per dirham invested is highest in these categories.
However, larger apartments and branded residences are positioned to benefit most from the step-change in visitor numbers expected when the Wynn Resort opens. Premium units near the resort site are commanding a meaningful price premium, and strong capital appreciation is expected across those holdings.
When evaluating apartment size on Al Marjan Island, investors should consider:
- Unit proximity to the Wynn Resort site
- Sea view versus inland-facing orientation
- Whether the property is hotel-managed or independently rented
- Payment plan structure on off-plan purchases
- Anticipated delivery timeline relative to the Wynn opening in 2027
Choosing the Right Apartment Size on Al Marjan Island
There is no single right answer the optimum unit depends on your strategy, budget, and risk tolerance. Ready stock in established developments offers immediate rental income and a lower-risk profile. Off-plan units closer to the Wynn site offer stronger projected capital appreciation but carry development risk and a waiting period before returns begin.
Buyers are encouraged to compare:
- Ready units in Pacific and Bab Al Bahr against new off-plan launches
- Short-term rental yield potential vs. long-term tenant demand
- Unit size relative to service charges and management costs
- The profile of surrounding developments as the island continues to evolve
Is Al Marjan Island Right for You?
Al Marjan Island is particularly well-suited to:
- Property investors seeking strong capital appreciation in a high-growth destination
- Buyers targeting tourism-driven short-stay rental income
- International buyers looking for freehold UAE ownership at prices below Dubai waterfront comparables
- Holiday home buyers who want a luxury beachfront property with strong rental income when not in personal use
- Investors who are comfortable with a development-stage market and want early exposure ahead of the Wynn opening
- Buyers seeking UAE residency visa eligibility through qualifying property purchases
It is less suited to buyers seeking a quiet, fully established community with on-site schools, comprehensive day-to-day retail, and a stable, low-volatility rental market for whom Al Hamra Village or Mina Al Arab may be a better fit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Al Marjan Island
Is Al Marjan Island a good area for property investment?
Yes, for investors comfortable with a growth-stage market. Al Marjan Island has delivered approximately 33% price growth year-on-year in 2024 and rental yields of 6%–10%. The upcoming Wynn Resort is widely expected to accelerate both capital values and rental demand when it opens in 2027.
What rental yields can investors expect on Al Marjan Island?
Studios and one-bedroom apartments typically deliver gross yields of 7.5%–8.5%. Larger units deliver 5%–7%. Short-term rental strategies can achieve gross yields of 9%–12% for well-managed, furnished units in prime locations.
What is the Wynn Resort and why does it matter for investors?
Wynn Al Marjan Island is a multibillion-dollar resort development currently under construction, scheduled to open in 2027. It will house the UAE’s first licensed gaming facility alongside over 1,000 hotel rooms, fine dining, and entertainment. The announcement triggered significant investment activity on the island and is expected to bring a step-change in international visitor numbers and short-stay rental demand.
Is Al Marjan Island freehold?
Yes. Al Marjan Island is a designated freehold zone. Non-UAE nationals can purchase and fully own property here, with the same rights as local buyers.
Can foreigners buy property on Al Marjan Island?
Yes. Al Marjan Island is a designated freehold zone. Non-UAE nationals can purchase and fully own property here, with the same rights as local buyers.
Are there off-plan properties available on Al Marjan Island?
Yes, and significantly so. Al Marjan Island has one of the most active off-plan pipelines in the UAE right now, with projects from developers including Ellington, DAMAC, Mantra Developments, Beyond, and Al Hamra Real Estate, among many others, at various stages of construction.
How does Al Marjan Island compare to Al Hamra Village for investors?
Al Hamra Village offers a more stable, predictable income profile with an established community, on-site golf, marina, and five-star hotels. Al Marjan Island offers higher growth potential and tourism-driven upside, but at greater risk given its development-stage nature. The right choice depends on your investment timeline and risk appetite.
How does Al Marjan Island compare to Al Hamra Village for investors?
Al Hamra Village offers a more stable, predictable income profile with an established community, on-site golf, marina, and five-star hotels. Al Marjan Island offers higher growth potential and tourism-driven upside, but at greater risk given its development-stage nature. The right choice depends on your investment timeline and risk appetite.
How does Al Marjan Island compare to Mina Al Arab?
Mina Al Arab is a calmer, more residential community with lower price volatility and a stable long-term tenant base. Al Marjan Island is more speculative and tourism-oriented, with higher potential returns and higher market sensitivity. Buyers prioritising stability over growth tend to prefer Mina Al Arab.
What types of properties are available on Al Marjan Island?
Studios through to five-bedroom penthouses, villas from four to seven bedrooms, townhouses, duplexes, and serviced residences. The market includes both ready units and a large volume of off-plan product across multiple developers and delivery timelines.
Are there schools on Al Marjan Island?
No schools are located directly on the island. The nearest options, including RAK Academy and New British International School, are in Al Hamra Village, approximately 8–15 minutes away by car.
Is Al Marjan Island suitable for families?
It is becoming more family-friendly as the community matures. The island’s beaches and outdoor spaces are popular with families, and several hotels offer dedicated children’s facilities. However, for families who prioritise on-site schooling and a fuller community infrastructure, Al Hamra Village is currently the stronger option.
Is Al Marjan Island a good option for a holiday home?
Yes. The beachfront setting, luxury hotel presence, warm climate, and growing tourism infrastructure make it a strong choice for holiday home buyers. Short-stay rental returns when the property is not in personal use are among the strongest in Ras Al Khaimah.
How far is Al Marjan Island from Dubai?
Al Marjan Island is approximately 45–50 minutes from Dubai International Airport via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and Emirates Road (E611). It is accessible for weekends from Dubai and manageable for buyers whose primary base is in Dubai.
Is Al Marjan Island fully developed?
No, and that is a key part of its investment appeal. The island is mid-development, with significant new projects under construction and a transformative resort pipeline. This creates opportunity but also means the community infrastructure is still maturing compared to established areas like Al Hamra Village.
Can I get a UAE residency visa by purchasing property on Al Marjan Island?
Yes. Qualifying property purchases in Ras Al Khaimah, including on Al Marjan Island, can support long-term UAE residency visa applications. Buyers should consult with the relevant developer or a registered agent for the most current eligibility requirements.
What should investors look for when buying on Al Marjan Island?
Key considerations include proximity to the Wynn Resort site, sea-view orientation, whether the unit is hotel-managed or independently operated, off-plan delivery timeline, payment plan structure, service charges, and the reputation and track record of the developer.
Where can I find current Al Marjan Island property listings?
You can explore available properties, pricing insights, and investment guidance by contacting our RAK property experts or browsing our listings using the search and filter features on our website.
Explore Properties on Al Marjan Island
If you’re considering buying or investing on Al Marjan Island, our team can provide:
- Available listings, ready and off-plan
- Investment analysis and yield comparisons
- Developer and project background
- Area comparisons across Ras Al Khaimah communities
- Guidance on UAE residency visa eligibility
Speak to a Ras Al Khaimah property specialist today.
