Dar Global moves ahead with Dubai Trump Tower enabling works award

Dubai’s skyline is poised for a new addition as Dar Global, a London-listed luxury real estate developer, has appointed Edrafor Emirates LLC to carry out enabling and foundational works for the Trump International Hotel & Tower project along Sheikh Zayed Road, marking a significant early stage in the development of what is set to be one of the city’s most ambitious luxury properties.

The contract covers the preparatory phase ahead of full construction, with Edrafor tasked with ground engineering, deep enabling systems and logistical mobilisation to ready the site for subsequent structural work. The developer did not disclose the overall value of the contract or a timeline for this phase.

Dar Global’s chief executive, Ziad El Chaar, framed the award as a statement of confidence in Dubai’s appeal to international capital and high-end real estate demand, saying the firm remains committed to delivering a project that “will stand among the most prestigious addresses in the region,” drawing a global investor base attracted by exclusivity and architectural distinction.

Edrafor Emirates’ general manager, Pierre Fayad, underscored his company’s track record in navigating complex foundational work in the Gulf, indicating mobilisation on site will proceed with a focus on international standards and precision as the groundwork begins.

The Trump International Hotel & Tower Dubai is envisioned as an 80-storey mixed-use landmark rising approximately 350 metres, integrating luxury hospitality, branded residential living and an exclusive members-only club, alongside amenities such as what is described as the city’s highest outdoor pool and panoramic views of the Burj Khalifa. The tower is designed to offer both global investors and high-net-worth residents a unique lifestyle destination in the heart of one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

Analysts tracking Dubai’s property sector say the project fits within a broader resurgence in branded luxury developments in the emirate, driven by high demand from both regional and international buyers seeking premium real estate assets amid pro-growth economic policies. While the market has seen periodic softening in some segments, demand for high-end branded residences and hospitality assets has held up comparatively well, buoyed by strong tourism performance and a deep pool of foreign capital targeting the Gulf.

The enabling works contract award follows the project’s formal unveiling earlier in the year and comes as Dar Global continues to build its regional footprint. The developer’s pipeline includes other branded Trump projects, such as Trump Tower Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, where main works contracts have already been awarded after foundational stages, reflecting a multi-jurisdictional strategy in the Middle East.

Industry observers note that securing specialist contractors for early site preparation is critical on developments of this scale due to the technical challenges associated with deep basements, complex ground conditions and the integration of luxury-grade structural systems. In this context, the choice of a regional firm with a strong track record suggests a deliberate approach to mitigating risks and maintaining project momentum.

Financial details on the broader development indicate a gross development value in the region of $1 billion, a figure that places it among the most substantial luxury projects in the emirate, reflecting confidence among backers that Dubai’s role as a global hub for lifestyle and investment living will remain robust.

As enabling works get underway, Dar Global has indicated that it will provide further updates in line with key construction milestones, a practice typical of large-scale projects where phased disclosures help manage stakeholder expectations. The pace of progress on site and subsequent contracting rounds for structural and finishing works will be watched closely by market participants and potential buyers.