There are several developers in Dubai. Some are world-renowned and popular, while others are hidden gems few people know about. Sometimes it becomes difficult to choose which developer will suit your preferences and requirements. So, let’s compare the two most popular developers in Dubai, Emaar and Damac Properties, to find out which one is perfect for you. 

Emaar Properties has earned its status as the most popular and well-known developer due to its luxurious and high-quality developments. On the other hand, Damac Properties has been a prominent name in the real estate market, famous for its lavish yet affordable residences. 

A Short Overview

Emaar Properties was founded in 1997. Since its inception, Emaar has developed several prominent communities and landmarks, such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Hills Estate. These communities have helped to redefine urban living with their exclusive residential properties and world-class amenities. Emaar has also developed various iconic creations, like Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and Dubai Mall, the largest mall in Dubai. Emaar is a top developer in Dubai 

Damac Properties was established by Hussain Sajwani, an Emirati businessman, in 2002. They are one of the prominent developers who offer luxury at an affordable rate. Damac is one of the top private developers and the first ever renowned private developer in Dubai. Damac has created several popular communities in Dubai, such as Damac Lagoons, the luxurious waterfront promenade, and Damac Hills, a family-friendly community in the midst of lush greenery.  

Notable Projects 

Emaar has developed esteemed projects, such as the Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai, the world's tallest skyscraper, Dubai Marina, a privileged destination with expansive properties, and Arabian Ranches, a family-oriented villa and townhouse community. Regarding the brand residences, Emaar has collaborated with big names, such as Address, Palace, Vida, and Bristol. 

Damac focuses on creating bold, luxury, and affordable properties. This approach is evident by its creations, like Damac Hills, a beautiful community that is home to the Trump Golf Course. They also developed the water-based community, Damac Lagoons. With the completion of Violet 4, the Damac Hills will be completed. Damac focuses on providing a lavish lifestyle with loud themes, such as its collaborations with Cavalli 

Lifestyle Standards  

Emaar focuses on providing high standards of living. They have a simple yet elegant structure, and their designs are subtle and simplistic. Emaar focuses on integrated communities with access to schools, parks, and play areas. Damac Properties provides high-end luxury living, but embedded in a simple lifestyle. 

Damac develops statement pieces with flamboyant themes and unique amenities, nestled in the community. For example, Cavalli has all designer signature pieces as themes, Damac Hills and Damac Lagoons. In all these communities, every single amenity is different from the others. Damac always offers unique amenities. 

Pricing 

Emaar focuses on higher pricing compared to Damac. The reason behind this is that they are providing you with everything. The demand for Emaar Properties is very high, especially for investors looking for short-term properties or who want to flip the property sooner. 

Damac offers more affordable properties in comparison to Emaar Properties. Damac is suitable for investors who want to focus on long-term investment, or rent it out, or live in a family-oriented living environment. Both of these are great for end users, but they have their own communities and features. 

Investment Opportunities

Emaar has a higher resale value because they are in a prime location and has strong demand and a top-tier reputation, so people are comfortable paying a bit higher prices for the resale property. Moreover, it is easy to carry out transactions in the resale market with Emaar’s properties compared to any other developer.

Damac’s properties are more accessible. The price per square foot is usually lower compared to other properties in the same area. The payment plan is very flexible considering the amenities and services that they offer. Damac is for investors who want an easy payment plan at an affordable price in a prime location, and is particularly suitable for long-term investments. 

A Past and Present Outlook

Let's compare the past and present situations of the communities.

Comparing the two major communities by Emaar and Damac, Dubai Hills Estate and Damac Hills. 

Dubai Hills Estate was launched in the mid-2010s and has greenery, parks, schools, and more within the community. 

• The initial prices for 1-bedroom properties were about AED 642,000 to AED 700,000. 

• Today, a 1-bedroom is selling at almost AED 1.8 million to AED 2 million. The amount of appreciation and profits that one person can get on their property today is very high. 

Now, Damac Hills was established in 2013 and has communities with accessibility and amenities, such as a golf course, beach, resort, schools, malls, and more. 

• The prices started here at about AED 1 million. 

• Today, it's running at almost AED 3 million, which is again a crazy amount of appreciation. 

Overall, both of these are solid investments. The only difference lies in the pricing, location, and the area where each of them is placed. 

Payment Plan

Emaar has a rigid payment plan with a standard of 80:20, whereas Damac is now moving to a slightly stronger payment plan of 70:30 or 75:25. So, if one is looking for an affordable entry price, or it's a first-time investment and wants to break up their payment plans to make it simpler, then Damac is the option. But, for someone who's looking for a standard payment plan and is comfortable waiting for a longer period, Emaar is the best choice.

Which Developer Is Best for You?

If you are like straightforward and solid living experiences with just the basics done, but at high-end standards, then Emaar is the one for you. But if you want to enjoy several amenities, such as private pools, beaches, and golf clubs, and family-oriented experiences, then you should look for Damac’s properties. 

People looking for elite finishes, with brands and community activities in the community at an affordable rate and flexible payment plan, then Damac is the premium choice for you. Those who prefer a reliable and simple lifestyle with a great standard of living and quality, Emaar is perfect for you.