Dubai-based Atara Development has signed a landmark agreement with Marriott International to launch the Gulf region’s first Sheraton-branded residences. The new project, The Residences at Sheraton Al Marjan Island Resort, will be located on the prime shores of Ras Al Khaimah’s Al Marjan Island and feature 141 luxury beachfront homes co-located with a Sheraton resort. The deal marks a strategic milestone for both Atara and Marriott as branded residential developments continue to reshape the real estate landscape across the Middle East. The agreement was signed in the presence of senior officials from Marjan, including CEO Arch. Abdulla Al Abdouli, as well as leadership from Marriott and Atara.
The announcement signals Atara’s bold shift from high-end project execution to becoming a primary developer of branded lifestyle ecosystems. With more than 1 million square feet in its project pipeline over the next two years, the company is looking to expand its portfolio beyond Dubai’s exclusive enclaves to emerging premium destinations like Ras Al Khaimah.
Talking about the new development, Umid Bazarov, Chief Operating Officer at Atara Development, said: “It marks a turning point for Atara, where we evolve into a brand that creates full lifestyle ecosystems. Our vision is to build beyond structures — we want to create spaces that reflect the aspirations of modern luxury buyers.” The project also reflects Atara’s continued focus on precision execution, backed by its in-house construction capabilities. Every element of the development — from structural design to the finest architectural detailing — is being delivered to meet the highest standards of craftsmanship and global hospitality.
Al Marjan Island is fast emerging as the UAE’s next luxury hotspot, drawing attention from global developers and hospitality brands alike. “Located on the prime shores of Al Marjan Island, this project reflects the caliber of world-class developments we envision for our destination,” said Abdulla Al Abdouli. He added that the project strengthens the island’s position as a premier coastal lifestyle hub for both residents and investors. Once completed, The Residences at Sheraton Al Marjan Island Resort will feature over 50 amenities, elegant interiors, and in-residence hospitality services — blending Sheraton’s heritage of excellence with Atara’s vision of elevated coastal living.
For Marriott International, the launch of Sheraton residences in Ras Al Khaimah is a significant regional milestone. “This development will champion Sheraton’s rich history of service and legacy of fostering connections,” said Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East and Luxury, Europe, Middle East, and Africa at Marriott International. “We are delighted to collaborate with Atara Development to bring this vision to life and deliver the Sheraton experience that reflects a sense of belonging, accomplishment, and fulfillment for the residents.”
As one of only a limited number of Sheraton-branded residences globally, the Ras Al Khaimah project offers a rare opportunity for investors and end-users to own a slice of branded hospitality-driven living in the region.
