< Previous52 JUNE 2025 INTERVIEW hurdles, while others have pushed us creatively to redefi ne what a living space can look and feel like. Each one teaches us something new, adds to our experience, and refl ects a diff erent chapter in the story we’re building at Zed Capital. From concept to completion, no two journeys are the same and that’s exactly what keeps the work meaningful and rewarding. Some of our favourite and most successful projects include Starlight Park, The Cube Residences and most recently, our latest launch: Viera Residences. Viera, like all our other projects, stands out because it captures exactly what we set out to do at Zed Capital: bring substance, strategy and long-term value to the table. It wasn’t just about selling real estate; it was about understanding the market, making data-backed decisions with the developer and building a narrative that truly resonated. Everything came together: the product, the team and the timing, showcasing the momentum we built. It was a defi ning moment that brought our vision to life in the most rewarding way. You’ve hinted that Zed Capital might step into development, taking on full-scale projects. Is that vision becoming a reality? Yes, development is the natural next step for Zed Capital. We’ve spent years advising on some of the region’s top luxury projects, and now we’re looking to channel that experience into something of our own. We’re currently in conversations around a potential debut project. It’s still early, but the vision is clear: to develop with intention, focusing on quality, design and long-term value. This isn’t about volume. It’s about creating standout spaces that refl ect the same level of detail and diff erentiation we bring to everything else we do. What type of clientele does Zed Capital attract, and how do you curate such a strong brand presence? Our clients come from all walks of life. It’s not just about luxury. We’ve worked with fi rst-time buyers, growing families and seasoned investors alike. What they all value is guidance they can trust and a team that delivers beyond Viera Residences, Dubai Production City CW_June2025_50-53_Zeina Khoury_13619562.indd 5205/06/2025 00:29JUNE 2025 53 INTERVIEW How has your experience on Dubai Bling impacted your business—did it change the way clients or partners perceive you? The exposure from the show played some role in creating visibility for my work, but I wouldn’t say it changed how clients or partners perceive me. At the end of the day, it’s the results that speak for themselves. It’s about the value we bring to the table, not just what’s seen on screen. The show may have helped us reach a wider audience, but it’s the solid relationships and successful projects that have really driven our growth. If Zed Capital could co-develop a project with any designer or brand in the world, who would it be? If Zed Capital could co-develop a project with any designer or brand in the world, it would never just be about the name. We’re not interested in partnering for the sake of association. Any collaboration we take on has to come from a place of shared values, complementary strengths and a genuine vision for what we want to create. That’s why we’re very mindful about who we welcome into our ecosystem. A dream collaboration for us wouldn’t be about prestige, it would be about creating something that’s lasting, meaningful and feels like a natural extension of both brands. the sale. One thing we’re genuinely proud of is the relationships we’ve built and how many people come back to us. We’ve helped someone buy their fi rst one-bedroom apartment, and a few years later, supported them as they moved into a much larger property. That kind of loyalty doesn’t come from the property alone. It comes from building real relationships. We’ve built a brand that refl ects that balance, and we carry that consistency through every touchpoint. With Zed Living Holiday Homes, we off er a curated portfolio of short-term rental properties, providing clients with fl exible and quality options for their stays. Our goal is to be a trusted partner, no matter what stage of the real estate journey they’re on. What’s one lesson from reality TV that surprisingly helps in real estate? Reality TV teaches you how to listen, react quickly, and read people well—skills that are incredibly useful in real estate. You become more aware of tone, body language and what’s not being said, which is often where the real story is. In this business, you’re navigating big personalities and high-stakes decisions. The ability to stay composed and adapt in the moment has helped me close deals, manage expectations, and build long-term trust. It’s a diff erent kind of training ground, but one that sharpens your instincts. If Zed Capital could co-develop a project with any designer or brand in the world, it would never just be about the name. We’re not interested in partnering for the sake of association” Refi ned interior design of Viera Residences CW_June2025_50-53_Zeina Khoury_13619562.indd 5305/06/2025 00:29MASTERPLAN 54 JUNE 2025 DUBAI’S NEXT ICONIC DISTRICT In partnership with BIG, A.R.M. Holding reimagines Jebel Ali Racecourse as Dubai’s next cultural and sustainable city hub Dubai’s urban landscape is set for a major transformation as A.R.M. Holding partners with globally renowned architecture fi rm Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) to launch a landmark 5 sq km masterplan around the historic Jebel Ali Racecourse. The development, expected to break ground in early 2026, was announced at a signing ceremony attended by HE Mohammad Saeed Al Shehhi, CEO of A.R.M. Holding, and Bjarke Ingels, Founder and Creative Director of BIG. The collaboration marks a key step in reshaping the city’s future in alignment with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. The mega-development aims to deliver a dynamic, human-centric urban ecosystem rooted in Emirati heritage and global design innovation. With sustainability, wellness and connectivity at its core, the masterplan will introduce a city-scale community that merges modern living with cultural identity, all centred around the Jebel Ali Racecourse, a site rich in historical signifi cance. “This project represents a new chapter for Dubai,” said H.E. Al Shehhi. “It refl ects our core values of creativity, integrity and agility, while drawing inspiration from the UAE’s cultural roots. We’re not just building structures; we’re creating spaces where people feel a sense of belonging and purpose.” According to Al Shehhi, the development will serve as a bridge connecting communities, fostering communication and promoting empathy in one of the world’s most diverse cities. The Wellness is the focus of the design with a “city as a gym” concept CW_June2025_54-55_Jebel Ali Masterplan_13619795.indd 5405/06/2025 00:30MASTERPLAN JUNE 2025 55 plan emphasises placemaking that celebrates Emirati heritage, with features such as equestrian facilities and Emirati-fi rst housing. Designed as an interconnected “archipelago of urban islands,” the project integrates residential clusters, green spaces, and community hubs in a layout that prioritises walkability, wellbeing and environmental resilience. Bjarke Ingels described the design as a “living landscape,” where nature and city life are seamlessly intertwined. “Around the racetrack, a vibrant city will rise,” said Ingels. “Not a collection of isolated objects, but a connected community where public parks extend like veins through the urban fabric.” Key elements of the masterplan include: • 100% green access: Every resident will be within a fi ve-minute walk to parks, amenities, co-working spaces and health services. • Wellness-fi rst design: A “city-as-gym” concept encourages active living, complemented by next-generation healthcare centres. • Climate-sensitive architecture: Passive cooling systems and climate-adapted design reduce environmental impact. • Cultural integration: Community markets, local F&B, arts, and learning hubs will reinforce identity and encourage local entrepreneurship. Rooted in national priorities and 17 key performance indicators (KPIs), the project aims to have a high impact across multiple dimensions—from social connectivity and health outcomes to economic empowerment. Among its bold ambitions: the highest life expectancy in the GCC and the UAE’s lowest rates of obesity and diabetes. Four pillars defi ne the development’s approach: • Modern living: Flexible residential layouts that support remote work while cultivating vibrant, inclusive public spaces. • Community and culture: Public art, educational opportunities, and heritage-focused amenities that reinforce a strong sense of place. • Wellness and lifestyle: Easy access to recreational areas, health services and spaces designed to promote holistic wellbeing. • Sustainability and environment: Urban farms, community gardens and green corridors to encourage eco-conscious living. “This masterplan is a testament to our long-term commitment to Dubai’s evolution,” said Al Shehhi. “By pushing boundaries with world-class partners like BIG, we’re shaping a future where innovation, identity and community intersect.” Flexible residential layouts are made for modern lives and remote work Every resident will be within a fi ve-minute walk to parks, amenities and more It refl ects our core values of creativity, integrity and agility, while drawing inspiration from the UAE’s cultural roots” CW_June2025_54-55_Jebel Ali Masterplan_13619795.indd 5505/06/2025 00:3056 JUNE 2025 NEWS His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), recently announced the launch of the Hewi Dubai initiative, a programme aimed at reimagining community spaces across the city. At its heart, Hewi (an Arabic word meaning “neighbourhood”) seeks to revive the deeply rooted Emirati concept of fareej, or neighbourhood living, with a contemporary twist. The initiative proposes a new generation of public spaces that aim to foster belonging, preserve cultural identity and encourage active, connected living. “Community bonds are among the core values Emirati families are raised on,” said His Highness Sheikh Hamdan. “We must pass on these values to future generations and design public spaces that bring neighbours together—places where families can gather, elders can meet and children can create lasting memories in a safe and welcoming environment.” The initiative isn’t simply about beautifi cation or recreation. It’s a statement about the evolving role of public spaces in urban design, spaces that refl ect the aspirations of the city and the people who live in it. “These new spaces will be anything but conventional,” Sheikh Hamdan added. “They are intended as vibrant extensions of our cultural identity and future aspirations.” The fi rst manifestation of this vision, Hewi Nad Al Sheba 4, will be developed through a collaboration between DFF and Dubai Municipality. Located in the walkable, residential district of Nad Al Sheba 4, the site lies between a mosque and surrounding villas, selected for its natural sense of community and everyday pedestrian activity. Unlike typical park projects driven primarily by top-down planning, Hewi Nad Al Sheba 4 is being co-designed with local residents and guided by in-depth data collection. The result: a park shaped by the rhythms, needs, and preferences of those who live closest to it. Each section of the new park has been intentionally designed to serve specifi c social functions, balancing tradition with innovation. A shaded majlis-style area near the mosque, called Al Decha, off ers a communal retreat where elders can sit together and share stories over Arabic coff ee, providing both comfort and cultural continuity. Adjacent to it, Al Saaha off ers a fl exible indoor-outdoor venue that can be adapted for local events, workshops or celebrations, ensuring the community has a platform to express itself. For families, Al Yalsa provides comfortable seating with clear views of the children’s play zone, making it an ideal space for parents to relax or casually engage with neighbours. The park also features nature-based play areas and winding paths that encourage discovery and intergenerational interaction. Hewi is more than just another public park initiative, it represents a shift in the city’s urban development philosophy. THE HEWI DESIGN EXPERIMENT Dubai’s latest initiative signals a shift toward emotionally intelligent placemaking, where heritage and innovation meet at the neighbourhood scale CW_June2025_56_News_13612576.indd 5603/06/2025 23:16www.sweidandsweid.com DESIGNED FOR DISTINCTION ENGINEERED FOR PERFORMANCE Form, function, and refined detail — delivered in every square foot Untitled-3 130/05/2025 21:22NEWS 58 JUNE 2025 The Walt Disney Company has confi rmed the development of Disneyland Abu Dhabi, the entertainment giant’s fi rst theme park in the Middle East and its seventh globally. The park will be located on Yas Island, cementing the destination’s status as a regional entertainment powerhouse. Already home to attractions like Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros. World, Yas Island’s profi le as a family-friendly leisure hub is set for exponential growth. With the arrival of Disneyland, real estate professionals are predicting a corresponding surge in property values and development activity, not just on Yas Island, but across neighbouring districts. “The arrival of Disneyland will be a game-changer for Abu Dhabi’s property landscape,” said Nada Jaouhar, Abu Dhabi Branch Director at Betterhomes. “We expect increased demand for high-quality, future-oriented homes, especially those in close proximity to the park.” The announcement comes at a time when Abu Dhabi’s real estate market is already on an upward trajectory. In April, the capital recorded a 15.7% increase in transactions over the previous month, totalling $789 million (AED2.9 billion) in sales. Notably, over 70% of these were off -plan transactions, indicating investor interest in new projects and upcoming communities. Premium districts such as Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, and Al Jubail Island have already seen elevated pricing, with villas on Al Jubail fetching up to $2.7 million (AED10 million) and annual rents reaching $108,904 (AED400,000). Analysts now expect further price pressure as proximity to the theme park becomes a critical consideration for both end-users and investors. The leasing market is also experiencing strong momentum. According to April fi gures, Abu Dhabi saw over 18,000 rental transactions worth $354 million (AED1.3 billion), with two-thirds of these representing new lease agreements. The opening of Disneyland is expected to further drive rental demand, particularly from professionals and expatriates relocating to work in and around the park. Beyond real estate, the project is seen as a major pillar in achieving the UAE’s Vision 2030 goals, particularly in diversifying the economy and accelerating sustainable, tourism-led growth. By drawing international visitors and creating thousands of jobs, Disneyland Abu Dhabi is expected to serve as a catalyst for broader urban development and long-term infrastructure investment. As construction plans unfold, the ripple eff ect of Disney’s arrival is set to shape the urban fabric of Abu Dhabi in the years to come—redefi ning not just entertainment, but how and where people choose to live in the capital. DISNEYLAND TO REDRAW ABU DHABI’S PROPERTY MAP The arrival of the beloved theme park will drive demand, reshape investor priorities and accelerate development in one of the UAE’s fastest-growing real estate hubs CW_June2025_58_News_13613057.indd 5805/06/2025 00:31It all starts with an idea Untitled-9 128/03/2025 00:51 Untitled-3 130/05/2025 21:22PARTNER CONTENT 60 JUNE 2025 SPACES, REINVENTED How adaptive reuse transforms obsolete buildings into sustainable, valuable assets The real estate industry stands at a crossroads, facing challenges that range from underperforming assets and vacant properties to looming carbon legislation and cautious capital markets. However, these challenges also present a unique opportunity to reimagine our approach to urban development and property management. Adaptive reuse, once considered a niche strategy, is emerging as a powerful tool for value creation, heritage preservation and environmental stewardship. At its core, adaptive reuse is seeing potential where others see obsolescence. It’s a philosophy that challenges the traditional “demolish and rebuild” mindset, asking us to consider the hidden value in existing structures. This approach not only unlocks trapped equity, but also contributes signifi cantly to sustainability goals and the preservation of cultural heritage. TO REPURPOSE OR REBUILD? The decision to repurpose or rebuild is complex and multifaceted. It requires a careful evaluation of several factors, including heritage value, structural adaptability and market alignment. According to JLL’s latest research, when a property aligns with at least two of these criteria, repurposing often proves more advantageous than rebuilding, off ering better returns on investment, faster project completion and reduced environmental impact. The economic case for adaptive reuse extends beyond immediate costs. While initial expenses may sometimes exceed those of new construction, a holistic, life-cycle approach often reveals long-term benefi ts. Repurposing can signifi cantly reduce construction timelines, accelerating return on investment. It also presents an opportunity to upgrade the asset’s systems for improved energy effi ciency and reduced operational costs. This approach requires a shift in fi nancial thinking, moving from short-term cost considerations to long-term value creation. From an environmental perspective, the advantages of this approach are clear and compelling. By preserving existing structures, we dramatically reduce embodied carbon—the emissions associated with materials and construction processes. This aligns with growing regulatory pressures and market demands for sustainable practices in real estate. Adaptive reuse is a powerful tool in the race towards net zero. It conserves raw materials, reduces waste, and minimises the carbon footprint associated with new construction. As sustainability becomes increasingly central to corporate strategies and government policies, the environmental benefi ts of adaptive reuse are likely to become even more valuable. TRANSFORMATION IN ACTION Real-world examples demonstrate the transformative potential of adaptive reuse. From obsolete retail spaces becoming vibrant educational facilities to industrial warehouses evolving into cultural hubs, these projects showcase how reimagining existing assets can revitalise neighbourhoods and create new value. One striking example is Dubai’s Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government, where vacant retail spaces were converted into an energy-effi cient, dynamic learning environment with fl exible classrooms, multipurpose spaces, a library, conference facilities and a large event terrace that blends indoor and outdoor spaces. Likewise, Heriot-Watt University Dubai is the conversion of two empty offi ce buildings into a Aldar’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi Words by Darren Denikiewicz, Head of Engineering and Energy - Project & Development Services UAE, JLL CW_June2025_60-61_JLL_13614080.indd 6003/06/2025 23:17PARTNER CONTENT JUNE 2025 61 technology-rich learning centre with contemporary design and sustainable features. Another example is Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz, Dubai, once an industrial area fi lled with ageing warehouses, which has been transformed into a vibrant cultural district that features art workshops, exhibition spaces and coff ee shops. Moreover, Aldar’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi were transformed from retail spaces into a cutting-edge regional offi ce. The neighbouring mall has also adapted by incorporating entertainment, offi ces, and fi tness facilities. Several asset classes show signifi cant potential for adaptive reuse. Underutilised shopping centres could fulfi l the increasing demand for last-mile logistics, taking advantage of their strategic locations and existing infrastructure. Vacant offi ce buildings can help address housing shortages or be transformed into mixed-use developments that combine residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. Retail units in prime locations might be repurposed as healthcare facilities, enhancing community access to medical services and creating new value for property owners. Additionally, with their strong infrastructure, industrial structures are ideal candidates for data centres or vertical farming operations, aligning with technological advancements and the need for sustainable food production. Each of these transformations signifi es a change of use and represents a reimagining of how urban spaces can adapt to the evolving needs of society and economic realities. LOOKING AHEAD As we progress towards a more sustainable future, the regulatory landscape could evolve to incentivise the repurposing of existing structures. Policymakers are starting to recognise the role of this approach in achieving sustainability goals and preserving urban heritage, potentially leading to streamlined approval processes, tax incentives and grants for transforming historically signifi cant buildings and aged assets. This shift makes strategic repositioning an increasingly attractive option for developers and investors. Building transformation represents a paradigm shift in how we view our built environment. With approximately 80% of 2050’s buildings already standing, our approach to existing structures will shape the sustainability and resilience of our cities. This challenges us to see our urban landscape as a dynamic, evolving ecosystem rather than a collection of static, single-purpose structures. By recognising the potential in existing buildings, we can create economically viable, environmentally responsible and culturally signifi cant spaces. Creative redevelopment off ers a path to innovation, sustainability, and community enhancement, allowing us to write new chapters in the stories of our cities. As we face the complex challenges of 21st-century urban development, this approach emerges as an opportunity to reimagine our cities, creating a more adaptable, sustainable and vibrant future built on the foundations of the past but designed for tomorrow’s needs. Darren Denikiewicz, Head of Engineering and Energy - Project & Development Services UAE, JLL Adaptive reuse is a powerful tool in the race towards net zero Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai Adaptive reuse is a powerful tool in the race towards net zero. It conserves raw materials, reduces waste, and minimises the carbon footprint associated with new construction” CW_June2025_60-61_JLL_13614080.indd 6104/06/2025 20:47Next >