DUBAI: In a dazzling unveiling event described as a "night to remember," Emaar, one of the world’s leading real estate developers, introduced its latest luxury masterplan: the Grand Polo Club & Resort.
Covering an extensive 5.54 million square metres, this polo-themed development now ranks as the third-largest equestrian-focused community globally – and the largest in all of Asia.
Strategically nestled close to the planned expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport, this new residential venture joins a prestigious list of Emaar masterplans such as The Oasis and The Heights Country Club & Wellness. With proximity to Emaar South, Downtown Dubai, and Dubai Marina, the development promises both elegance and accessibility.
Equestrian-centric design
At the heart of this luxury enclave lies The Green Core – an immaculately landscaped centrepiece designed to elevate the community’s lifestyle experience. It includes three expansive polo fields, private stables, a state-of-the-art riding school, and an opulent clubhouse that together celebrate the timeless sport of kings.
“The Green Core was envisioned to foster a harmonious environment that emphasises both visual appeal and the essence of equestrian living,” said a spokesperson from Emaar Development. Designed with landscape berms and extensive lawns, it encourages outdoor interaction while connecting residents with nature.
The total open space allocated in the masterplan spans 1.59 million square metres, with meadows, trails, cycling paths, and countryside riding routes integrated throughout. The polo fields and stables alone account for 340,000 square metres – an embodiment of scale and sophistication.
Architectural highlights
A highlight of the project is the Grand Clubhouse – an ultra-luxury, single-storey facility designed with global sensibilities and regional inspiration. Its unique exterior features horseshoe-inspired clay breeze blocks and a rooftop infinity pool with uninterrupted views of the polo grounds. It also houses fine dining outlets and hospitality suites aimed at delivering a premium guest experience.
The stables, described by Emaar as an "architectural gem," follow a spiral design around a central courtyard and water feature. Accommodating up to 180 horses, the facility also includes a private members’ lounge and is expected to become a landmark in global equestrian architecture.
“Circular motifs and organic elements were used to frame landscape views and create a serene, welcoming ambiance,” the Emaar spokesperson noted.
Luxury villa living
The Grand Polo Club & Resort will comprise 22 villa communities with over 6,600 upscale residences. These include three to five-bedroom villas thoughtfully positioned for maximum privacy and visual access to either the polo fields or essential community amenities.
According to Emaar, the villas have been designed to harness natural light and airflow, with interiors where “light and air engage in thematic play throughout.” The focus is on combining elegance with spatial connectivity and comfort.
The entire development is envisioned as “a living tribute to the heritage of polo,” celebrating equestrian tradition while delivering contemporary luxury at scale.
New 5-star hotel in Downtown
In addition to the new residential masterplan, Emaar has confirmed the launch of a new five-star hotel in Dubai’s iconic Downtown district – the company's first major hospitality project in its home market since 2009.
The hotel will feature 200 rooms and 542 serviced apartments. Construction will be primarily financed through the pre-sale of the serviced units, with sales scheduled to begin on 22 September.
“This is a strategic step to capture investor interest from Dubai, the Gulf region, the Indian subcontinent, China, and Europe,” said Arif Amiri, CEO of Emaar Retail, during the launch event.
The announcement marks a strong return to hospitality for Emaar following Dubai’s recovery from the 2008-09 property crisis. The developer has already launched two major residential projects this year: Panorama at the Views with over 200 high-rise luxury apartments, and Alma 2 within the Arabian Ranches community.
Amiri added that Emaar’s real estate sales for the first half of the year were five times higher compared to the same period last year. Recent financial reports revealed apartment sales revenue of Dh975.5 million for the six months ending 30 June – up from Dh640.5 million the previous year.