Last updated on January 21st, 2026 at 11:47 am
Dubai’s fast-growing creative economy is set for another significant boost as Meraas debuts a new project within Dubai Design District (d3), one of the region’s most influential hubs for fashion, architecture, art, and digital innovation. The expansion reinforces Dubai’s long-term vision to build a world-leading ecosystem for design, media, and creative industries while attracting global talent, investors, and innovative brands.
The new Meraas project arrives amid strong market momentum, with Dubai’s commercial and creative clusters witnessing record-high demand for premium office, studio, and retail spaces. As Meraas debuts a new project at a time when demand is surging, the development is expected to elevate further d3’s position as the UAE’s most dynamic creative zone.
Market Snapshot: The Creative & Commercial Boom
| Metric (Q3 2025) | Status | Trend |
| Creative-sector companies in d3 | 12,000+ | Strong YoY growth |
| Office occupancy in d3 | 95% | Near full capacity |
| Grade A commercial rents | +28% YoY | High demand |
| New creative licenses issued | +18% | Strong inflow of startups |
Residential & Creative Business Ecosystem
Although D3 is primarily a commercial and creative zone, its surrounding communities are experiencing increased residential demand driven by proximity to the district.
| Community | Why It’s Growing |
| Business Bay | Close to d3 + high-rise apartments |
| Downtown Dubai | Strong appeal for creative professionals |
| Al Wasl | Boutique villas + lifestyle amenities |
| City Walk | Popular with designers, artists, and entrepreneurs |
Commercial/Office Market Dynamics
| Category | Q3 2025 Status | Insight |
| Creative studios | Fully booked | Major waiting lists |
| Co-working spaces | 90–95% occupancy | Driven by startups & freelancers |
| Premium offices | +30% demand YoY | Fashion, gaming, animation sectors |
Supply Pipeline & Developer Activity
The Meraas development is part of a wider expansion plan for Dubai Design District.
Upcoming Additions:
- Next-gen workspace cluster with flexible floor plates
- Retail-lined pedestrian cultural boulevard
- Dedicated design studios and creative labs
- Event and exhibition spaces for fashion, art & tech showcases
- Sustainability-focused architecture aligned with Dubai 2040 goals
Demand Drivers
- Creative economy surge across fashion, gaming, architecture, and digital design
- Global talent migration choosing Dubai as a creative HQ
- Government support through Dubai Creative Economy Strategy
- Strong influx of startups in media, AI, animation, and content production
- Lifestyle + business ecosystem attracting international brands
- Events growth including Dubai Fashion Week and global exhibitions
Risks & What to Watch
- Increasing competition for premium creative spaces
- Rising construction and material costs
- Global market slowdown affecting creative-sector budgets
- Potential office oversupply, though current demand is strong
- Shifts in remote-work trends impacting leasing decisions
Expert Quotes / Attribution
The expansion of Dubai Design District reflects the city’s commitment to becoming the global capital of creativity, innovation, and design. Senior Analyst, CBRE Middle East
Meraas’ new project will help bridge the gap between rising demand and limited supply of high-quality creative spaces. Market Research Director, Knight Frank UAE
Data Notes & Methodology
Data sourced from CBRE, Knight Frank, Dubai Design District (d3), and Dubai Statistics Center. Figures represent Q3 2024–Q3 2025 performance.
Conclusion
Dubai Design District’s expansion, highlighted by Meraas’ newly announced development, marks a significant milestone in the city’s blueprint to shape the future of global creativity. With cutting-edge workspaces, curated retail, and immersive cultural experiences, d3 continues to position Dubai as a world-leading hub for design, media, fashion, and innovation.
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