Meraas has announced plans for a new residential masterplan for Dubai Design District (d3) that will expand the district with an 18 million ft² waterfront neighbourhood.

Situated between Downtown Dubai and Dubai Creek, the plan will be managed by Meraas, a part of Dubai Holding Real Estate.

The masterplan features residential buildings along the canal, public green spaces, cultural areas, and urban streets designed to enhance walkability.

The design aims to integrate living spaces with retail, hospitality and cultural venues.

One core component is a shaded pedestrian route known as the Design Line, which will connect the district through art installations, community zones and landscaped corridors.

Meraas states that this expansion is in response to increased demand from local and international buyers interested in well-connected waterfront communities.

The project also supports Dubai’s wider economic goals outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to position the city as a centre for design, innovation and culture.

Developers are targeting LEED Silver certification for sustainability, with efforts focused on energy efficiency, mobility solutions and connectivity to natural sites, including visual access to Dubai Creek and Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary.

Five distinct precincts are planned within the neighbourhood: canal-side contemporary residences with boutique hospitality; an urban core combining homes with retail and dining; and a cultural quarter featuring performance venues and mid-rise apartments.

A wellness area with parks and sports facilities, and a creative hub supporting art galleries, studios and collaborative workspaces are also included.

Dubai Holding Real Estate CEO Khalid Al Malik said: “Expanding the Dubai Design District masterplan into a fully integrated creative neighbourhood is a significant step in advancing the ambitions of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

“This development strengthens Dubai Design District’s position as a global benchmark for design-focused urban living and reaffirms Dubai’s status as a destination of choice for long-term investment, talent and innovation.”

Recent property launches in the district include Atelis, a waterfront tower that sold all 280 units rapidly, as well as The Edit, a new three-tower project comprising 557 homes.

Meraas reports sustained buyer interest in these developments.

The expanded residential offering is intended to reinforce d3’s role as an integrated community where residents can live, work and participate in creative industries.