H&H Development Unveils Water Gardens Project in Dubai DIFC

Dubai-based developer H&H Development has announced its new Water Gardens project within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). The development comprises four buildings offering a mix of luxury residences, hotels, Grade A offices, and retail spaces. Construction is already underway, with completion anticipated in 2028.

Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Sir David Chipperfield, the Water Gardens development integrates residential, commercial, and hospitality elements around extensively landscaped gardens, water features, and pedestrian public spaces. The project is one of the final components within DIFC’s original Gate District masterplan.

Office and Retail Features

The office component of Water Gardens will provide 21,965 square metres of Grade A net leasable office space, including three floors dedicated to micro-suites alongside larger office configurations. JLL, a global real estate consultancy, has been appointed as the exclusive leasing partner for the office units. The development also aims for LEED Platinum certification, reflecting its commitment to sustainability.

Retail and dining experiences within Water Gardens are curated by Studio KKD, with interiors by Patricia Urquiola, Tihany Design, and Tristan Auer. The entire complex is designed to be pedestrian-focused, enhancing connectivity within DIFC.

Connectivity and Lifestyle

Strategically located approximately 300 metres from the Financial Centre Metro Station, Water Gardens will offer direct connections to DIFC’s Gate Avenue. Its central landscaped garden and water feature, designed by Bureau Bas Smets, will be accessible via stairs from Al Sukook Street and Al Mustaqbal Street, extending DIFC’s existing pedestrian network.

Shahab Lutfi, Chairman of H&H, stated, "> With Water Gardens, we wanted to create a destination that reflects the full rhythm of contemporary life, where work, dining, family, social connection, wellness and time for oneself can co-exist naturally within one environment."

Saleh Al Akrabi, Chief Real Estate Officer at DIFC Investments, noted that the project strengthens physical and experiential connections across the district, solidifying DIFC’s evolution as a hub where business, culture, and lifestyle converge.