Emaar Properties announced that they have completed free repairs on 4,500 homes damaged by the unprecedented April rains by the end of June. The Dubai-based developer provided this service to all residential units in its communities, which were affected by the heaviest rainfall the UAE has experienced in 75 years, causing significant damage in areas like Dubai, Sharjah, and the Northern Emirates.
Communities managed by Emaar include Downtown Dubai, Emaar South, Dubai Hills Estate, Dubai Creek Harbour, Arabian Ranches, Dubai Marina, and The Valley. Other prominent developers such as MAG and Damac Properties have also committed to repairing homes damaged by the rain. In response to the situation, the Dubai Government initiated a comprehensive project in June to enhance the rain drainage network across the emirate at a cost of Dh30 billion, aiming to increase the drainage capacity by 700% and cover all areas.
During the first half of 2024, Emaar Properties launched 30 new projects and sold 8,400 units, marking a 56% increase. Notably, projects like Address Residences Zabeel and Palace Residences Dubai Hills Estate achieved sales of 2,500 units each within just seven days. The company also awarded construction contracts worth Dh8.7 billion in the first half of 2024.
Mohamed Alabbar, the founder of Emaar Properties, emphasized the company's commitment to excellence and innovation during a mid-year staff rally, stating that they are not just managing businesses but shaping legacies and transforming communities for a prosperous future. Additionally, Emaar confirmed that it extended free repair services to all its residential units affected by the April 16 heavy rains, with over 4,500 homes repaired by the end of June 2024.
Dubai Mall, which was the most visited location globally in 2023 with 105 million visitors, saw an 8% rise in foot traffic in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Dubai Opera also experienced a record-breaking attendance, drawing 250,000 spectators.