- Appointment of one of the UAE's leading Tier 1 contractors marks a decisive construction milestone for Shamal's premium residential leasing community on the historic Jumeirah site.
Shamal Holding, the Dubai-headquartered diversified investment company, has awarded Dutco Construction the main construction works contract for its new residential project on the former Dubai Zoo site in Jumeirah 1. The award marks the beginning of the project’s main construction phase.
The project will repurpose a place deeply rooted in Dubai’s collective memory, transforming it into a low-rise residential community while preserving the site’s distinct character, identity and historical connection to Jumeirah.
One of the UAE's leading Tier 1 contractors, Dutco is recognised for quality, workforce capability and delivery excellence. Its selection reflects Shamal's commitment to partnering with best-in-class organisations and reinforces confidence that the project will be realised to the highest standards.
Dutco has previously partnered with Shamal to deliver infrastructure elements of Dubai Harbour and Dubai Harbour Marinas, giving both organisations an established working relationship, a shared understanding of Shamal's standards and the confidence that comes from having delivered together before.
Conceived as a long-term investment, the project reflects Shamal's confidence in Dubai's continued growth and in the enduring relevance of homes shaped around quality of life, open green space and connected living. The community will remain under Shamal's ownership, with all homes offered for premium leasing, placing stewardship and the everyday resident experience at the centre of the investment.
Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Executive Officer, Shamal Holding, said: "Land of this significance calls for a clear point of view about what comes next.
"This site carries real meaning for Dubai and for Jumeirah. Our responsibility is to honour that while building something of lasting quality, and this award is a decisive commitment to that ambition. It reflects how we invest: selectively, with trusted partners and a disciplined view of what an asset should contribute over time."
The project represents a thoughtful reimagining of a beloved landmark and will comprise 90 meticulously designed low-rise homes that blend refined architecture, nature and connected living.
Clean geometry and natural materials will shape the architecture. Shared courtyards, landscaped open spaces, a large park at the centre and mature trees from the former zoo, retained to preserve the natural character and history of the site, supporting a slower, more spacious way of living in the heart of the city.
Residents will benefit from a clubhouse, wellness area, dedicated children's play area, family pool, lounge and gym, alongside communal spaces designed to support everyday interaction and community life. The community is designed to prioritise walkability, placing day-to-day needs and shared spaces within easy reach.
Designed to harmonise with the surrounding Jumeirah neighbourhood, the community will bring together privacy, greenery and a grounded urban living experience in an environment that feels both nostalgic and new.
