If you dream of lush forest walks but love the buzz of city life, then Dubai's latest architectural creature, Ghaf Woods, might just be your perfect home. By 2031, this revolutionary residential neighbourhood will introduce an impressive 35,000 trees right in the heart of the city, creating the first-ever forest-living community.
They promise to have more trees than residents.
Named after the symbolic Ghaf tree, the national tree of the UAE, Ghaf Woods promises a harmonious blend of nature and luxury. Imagine living in a serene environment where the temperature is a refreshing 5 degrees cooler, thanks to the dense canopy. The verdant surroundings will not only offer a reprieve from the summer heat but also create an idyllic setting with bicycle lanes, walking trails, and swimming pools, all to the soothing soundtrack of birdsong.
Majid Al Futtaim, renowned for its innovative developments, launched Ghaf Woods on June 5, 2024. CEO Ahmed El Shamy shared in the official press release, “The launch of Ghaf Woods represents an important moment for Majid Al Futtaim. <...> This launch represents a re-founding moment for us to create something never seen before and offer residents a truly unique experience, reconfirming our position as the lifestyle pioneers in the region.”
Spanning 738,000 square metres, Ghaf Woods will be developed in eight phases. The first community, Serra, is set to pave the way for a lifestyle where nature takes centre stage. The buildings, standing at 5–6 storeys, will house approximately 40–50 units each, with options ranging from one-bedroom apartments to luxurious penthouses.
The forest, stretching one kilometre in length and up to 150 metres in width, will include an impressive array of amenities. Residents can explore 8 kilometres of walking trails and a 3.5-kilometre mountain biking loop, all within a forest ecosystem that promotes wellness and sustainability.
Ghaf Woods is designed to be a haven for both people and wildlife, hosting over 20 bird species. The integration of 35,000 trees will not only provide shade and infrastructure for wildlife, as well as lower temperatures (and the development company claims the area will be five degrees chillier, compared to the rest of the city), but also enhance air quality, making it a true "Green Lung" for Dubai. The company is ensuring the air will be up to 20% better than in other urban areas. These trees will also play a crucial role in reducing soil erosion and conserving water, contributing to the community’s sustainability.
5-minute Lifestyle and Amenities
The development will feature resort-style pools, fitness facilities, family-friendly gardens, and a wellness and yoga pavilion. The community's design encourages outdoor living, promoting a healthier lifestyle amidst nature's beauty. At the heart of Ghaf Woods will be Distrikt, a vibrant hub offering retail, dining, and farm-to-table cuisine.
With more than 7,000 premium woodland units, including one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes, as well as penthouses, Ghaf Woods ensures a variety of living options to suit different lifestyles. Forest-lined pathways will link the different neighbourhoods, ensuring that you are never more than a five-minute walk from the community’s farthest point.
Set to be released in eight phases between now and 2031, Ghaf Woods will cover the area at the Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Highway near Global Village. The project’s expansive ratio of 15 square metres of open space per resident exceeds the World Health Organization’s standards by 40%, providing ample room to roam and enjoy the outdoors.
Ghaf Woods is poised to redefine indoor-outdoor living, creating a sustainable, forest-like community that balances luxury with ecological responsibility. With its unique design and commitment to enhancing residents' quality of life, Ghaf Woods is set to become a landmark in Dubai's architectural landscape.
So, get ready to embrace a new way of living where the forest meets the city, and every day is a breath of fresh air. Whether you are a nature lover or simply seeking a serene retreat within the bustling city, Ghaf Woods promises an unparalleled living experience.
Keep an eye out for this groundbreaking project — Dubai's urban forest awaits!