Dukes, an historic London hotel brand, will see its first overseas property open in Dubai, UAE, next year.

The Dukes Oceana, Dubai hotel and residences is being built on The Palm Jumeirah and scheduled to be handed over within the first quarter of 2016, according to the project’s developer Seven Tides.

It will be the first international property for the Dukes brand, whose flagship hotel Dukes London is a popular destination for GCC travelers.

Centrally located on the trunk of Palm Jumeirah and only 45 minutes from Dubai International Airport, the resort and residential community is set to add a distinctly English flavour to the city’s luxury hospitality offering, the Dubai-based developer says. 

“With this launch we are bringing quintessential British charm and style to the UAE and blending it with cosmopolitan luxury to create a unique residence and hotel situated in the heart of Dubai’s most desirable island community,” says Abdulla bin Sulayem, CEO, Seven Tides.

“The residences will be launched on April 14 for investors and other guests, with the show apartments open for viewing,” he added. 

The 273-room hotel will offer world-class leisure and entertainment facilities including a stunning private beach, indoor pool, and outdoor infinity pool plus state-of-the-art gym, along with a number of restaurants. 

Guests can choose from Great British Restaurant (GBR) serving modern British brasserie-style cuisine, a traditional fish and chips café located on the promenade overlooking the Dubai Marina and JBR, top floor Asian restaurant with stunning views over the palm, Dukes Bar for signature cocktails, the Champagne Lounge for a traditional afternoon tea or light dining experience, and the al fresco Cigar and Coffee Lounge.

Pleasure or business, the Dukes hospitality extends across relaxing leisure opportunities and complete meeting requirements. The executive lounge, private business suites and conference rooms have been specifically created to offer tailor-made spaces for gatherings or celebrations, from intimate cocktail receptions to impressive corporate events.

The 227 studio and one-bedroom apartments that comprise the Dukes Oceana, Dubai residences are targeted at the regional and international investment community, with Seven Tides guaranteeing a return on investment (ROI) of 10 per cent per annum for the first five years.

“International HNWIs consider lifestyle appeal as a major criteria when looking to grow their investment portfolio and Palm Jumeirah fits the bill in every respect. This is further endorsed by Dubai’s longstanding reputation as a globally connected gateway and world-class commercial hub offering a high standard of living,” said Bin Sulayem.

Sold as fully furnished freehold residences, the 185 studios and 42 one-bedroom apartments range in size from 286 to 652 sq ft (studios) and 782 to 834 sq ft (one-bedroom apartments). 

Generous sized living and bedroom spaces reflect the elegant Dukes design philosophy and feature luxury designer furnishings, expansive walk-in wardrobes and elegant en-suite bathrooms complemented by smart home technology throughout and custom designed kitchens equipped with the latest domestic appliances.

Prices start from Dh760,000 ($206,906) for a studio, with a one-bedroom commanding up to Dh2.5 million ($680,610).

Says Bin Sulayem: “Dubai continues to offer value for money even at the top end of the investment spectrum, especially when it comes to apartment square footage compared to other major metropolises such as London or New York.

“Investors will also be able to enjoy complete peace of mind knowing that their investment is being managed by the Dukes operations team around-the-clock, and that it’s in professional hands from day one.”

Residents will also have full access to the Dukes Oceana, Dubai suite of leisure facilities and support services.

Established in 2004, Seven Tides has developed its own portfolio of commercial, residential and resort properties in some of the world’s most desirable locations.

Its award-winning flagship hotel, Dukes London, is situated in the fashionable Mayfair district and has been a hospitality icon in the capital for well over a century.

Seven Tides owns and operates the London property.