Study highlights growing demand for seafront living as UAE residents prioritise wellbeing
New research links proximity to water with daily wellbeing, lifestyle choices and long-term residential preferences
Dubai: New research commissioned by Shamal Holding has found that proximity to water is increasingly influencing how UAE residents make lifestyle decisions, manage wellbeing and choose where they want to live, reinforcing themes outlined in Dubai’s long-term quality-of-life and urban development strategies.
The findings form part of The Future of Seafront Being, a thought leadership initiative by Shamal Holding that includes a YouGov survey of 1,009 UAE residents, expert discussions and an industry white paper exploring the relationship between waterfront environments, wellbeing and urban planning.
Water influences daily life
According to the study, 96% of respondents said proximity to water influences daily decisions, including travel routines, exercise habits and stress management.
The research also found that:
- 88% would adapt their physical wellbeing routines if they had regular access to seafront walkways, marinas or sea views.
- 88% believe living by the sea meaningfully enhances both mental and physical wellbeing.
- The most common activities associated with waterfront access are walking at sunset (60%), spending time by marinas (53%) and dining or leisure activities by the beach (51%).
Shift in residential preferences
- The study found growing interest in waterfront living, with 82% of respondents considering moving to a seafront or marina community within the next two to three years.
- Coastal and marina environments emerged as the preferred residential setting for 45% of respondents, outperforming higher-density urban locations.
The research also showed:
- 93% would pay a premium for a seafront home.
- 99% believe proximity to water increases a property's long-term value.
Wellbeing and community connection
The findings suggest that access to waterfront environments is associated with broader wellbeing benefits.
According to the survey:
- 91% said they feel more relaxed near water.
- 56% associate seafront access with relaxation.
- 41% associate it with quiet spaces.
- 41% associate it with uplifting feelings.
- 33% said it strengthens their connection with nature.
- 31% linked it to a sense of inner balance.
The study also indicated changing perceptions of luxury, with 48% of respondents identifying meaningful, nature-connected living as the most important characteristic of a desirable home, ahead of design trends (40%) and social prestige (33%).
Supporting future planning
Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Executive Officer of Shamal Holding, said: "In Dubai, our relationship with the sea has always shaped our identity and ambition. We believe that Seafront Being is the evolution of seafront living, from simply residing by the water to experiencing the waterfront as an integrated part of daily life, work, leisure, wellbeing and belonging."
He added that the initiative aims to contribute to discussions around urban planning, destination design and quality of life as Dubai continues to evolve.
"As prime coastal land becomes increasingly scarce, our focus remains on creating places that enrich lives today and endure for generations to come."
Informing long-term development
Shamal Holding said the research is intended to support broader industry discussions around future communities, destination design and urban development.
The findings and expert perspectives have been compiled into The Future of Seafront Being White Paper, which explores how waterfront environments can contribute to healthier, more connected and sustainable communities, while supporting Dubai's long-term vision for quality of life and urban growth.