Dubai, UAE – July 2026: Alyakka Developers has successfully handed over Waha Living, its inaugural freehold residential development in Jumeirah Garden City, marking a significant milestone for the UAE homegrown developer. Delivered on schedule, the AED 110 million development is already approximately 70% occupied, reflecting strong buyer confidence in a developer whose roots in Dubai’s real estate market extend back more than 25 years.
Unlike many developers that launch projects off-plan, Alyakka follows a distinctive build-first philosophy, beginning sales only once construction has surpassed 50% completion. The approach significantly reduces delivery timelines while providing buyers with greater certainty, tangible construction progress and confidence in build quality before making an investment.
The strategy is underpinned by the company’s heritage through the SBK Group, one of Dubai’s longstanding property owners and operators. The Group has developed, owned and managed residential assets across the emirate since the late 1990s, earning a reputation for quality construction, operational excellence and long-term asset stewardship. Alyakka Developers was established as the Group’s dedicated freehold development arm, bringing this proven expertise to a new generation of homeowners and investors.
Sheikh Suhail Bin Khalifa Saeed Al Maktoum, Founder of Alyakka Developers, said: “Our philosophy is simple: build first, sell later. Having developed and managed homes across Dubai for a generation, we know that quality is proven on site, not promised on paper. By launching projects only after significant construction progress, we give buyers greater confidence, shorten delivery timelines, and ensure every home reflects the standards on which SBK Group has built its reputation. Our model appeals equally to investors seeking the upside of off-plan with significantly reduced delivery risk, and to end-users looking for high-quality homes they can move into much sooner. Combined with our focus on developing in Dubai’s strategic, high-growth neighbourhoods, it creates a compelling proposition built on trust, quality and long-term value. Waha Living is the first demonstration of that promise.”
The SBK Group has owned and operated residential buildings for decades, and Alyakka carries that experience into everything it builds. Materials, layouts and finishes are chosen for durability and long-term liveability, so the quality lasts well beyond handover.
Waha Living comprises 71 residences, including studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments with private balconies, set between Sheikh Zayed Road on one side and a landscaped public park on the other in Jumeirah Garden City. The eight-storey development features a swimming pool, children’s pool, gymnasium, elevated gardens, sun deck, viewing deck, children’s play area and outdoor recreational spaces. Its central location offers residents convenient access to Sheikh Zayed Road, Downtown Dubai, DIFC, City Walk and the Dubai Metro.
Following the successful completion of Waha Living, Alyakka Developers is preparing to hand over Ryah Living later this year, with the structure already 100% complete. The developer is also expanding into Dubai South with Zura Residences, located near Al Maktoum International Airport in one of Dubai’s fastest-growing residential corridors.
About Alyakka Developers
Alyakka Developers is the dedicated freehold development arm of the SBK Group, bringing more than 25 years of UAE real estate expertise to the residential market. Founded on a legacy of quality construction, long-term property ownership and asset management, the company develops homes that combine Emirati values with contemporary design, prioritising durability, trust and timely delivery. Through its build-first approach, Alyakka provides buyers with greater confidence by launching projects only after significant construction progress has been achieved.