Dubai is amplifying its financial hub ambitions through the development of a new project valued at AED 5 billion (approximately USD 1.4 billion). The initiative, named “Water Gardens,” was unveiled by H&H and is set to emerge as a vibrant mixed-use destination within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). This ambitious project will encompass office spaces, residential units, hospitality facilities, and retail outlets, all arranged around communal gardens and water features.
A Flourishing Financial Centre
Over the years, the DIFC has transformed from a business-centric area into a dynamic destination offering a variety of options for living, dining, and leisure activities. “Water Gardens” aims to further enrich this experience by attracting renowned figures in architecture, design, and hospitality, reflecting the centre’s aspirations and global standing.
Architectural Excellence
Designed by the globally acclaimed architect Sir David Chipperfield, a Pritzker Prize winner, “Water Gardens” features four buildings surrounding a central park, along with pedestrian-friendly public spaces integrated with green areas and water bodies. The design embodies a timeless simplicity and elegance that complements the urban character of the DIFC while enhancing the surrounding area, offering a destination of lasting value and significance for future generations.
Meeting Modern Lifestyle Needs
Shihab Lutfi, Chairman of H&H, stated, “For a long time, the DIFC has been associated with ambition and professional success, but we are now witnessing a growing enthusiasm from individuals choosing the centre as their daily living space as well. With ‘Water Gardens,’ we aimed to create a destination that aligns with diverse aspects of modern life, allowing people to work, dine, spend time with family, socialise, prioritise health and wellness, and enjoy personal leisure—all within a seamlessly integrated environment. Our goal is for everyone to discover their ideal experience at ‘Water Gardens’ and enjoy their time in their own preferred manner.” This vision reflects a broader philosophy adopted by H&H, focusing on creating destinations with clear objectives, utilising designs that address people’s needs, lifestyles, and interactions, while enabling these experiences to evolve over time.
Central Location and Accessibility
Situated in the heart of the DIFC, “Water Gardens” enhances the area, which has evolved into a vibrant region that transcends its original role as a business hub. The locality now boasts a diverse range of restaurants, hotels, residences, art galleries, and cultural attractions, contributing to its unique character and lively post-work atmosphere. This new project aims to complement this evolution, offering residents, businesses, and visitors convenient access to various centre amenities while providing a distinct and memorable experience within the project itself.
Innovative Workspace Concepts
The office spaces within “Water Gardens” present a modern vision for premium work environments, suiting leading companies that now see their offices not merely as places of work but as embodiments of their ambitions, culture, and values. The workplace plays a pivotal role in shaping clients’ impressions of a company and in enhancing its ability to attract and retain top talent, alongside fostering optimal conditions for employee performance.
Specifically designed for businesses seeking a distinguished address within the DIFC, these office spaces offer the benefits of a prestigious location alongside greater privacy, tranquillity, and an employee-centric working environment. The building showcases architectural excellence by Sir David Chipperfield and interior design by Patricia Urquiola, reflecting sophistication and providing a work atmosphere that aligns with the identities of the companies located there, while supporting employee health and comfort.
A Sustainable Future
The office building in “Water Gardens” will provide a total rentable net area of 21,965 square metres, featuring three floors dedicated to small office suites alongside larger office spaces. The project aims to achieve platinum LEED certification for sustainability. It is designed not solely to provide functional spaces for business operations but to reflect the identity of the companies that establish their base there, showcasing elegance, connectivity, and a prime location within one of Dubai’s established business districts. JLL has been appointed as the exclusive leasing partner for the office spaces.