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Merging haute horology with high-end real estate, Ohana Development recently partnered with Jacob & Co. to launch the Dhs4.7bn Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana.
This project introduces the world’s first Jacob & Co. Beach Club and Seafront Cigar Lounge.
In this interview with Gulf Business, the company’s CEO Husein Salem shares insights into the genesis of this unique collaboration, the meticulous planning behind its world-first amenities, and the evolving landscape of branded residences in the Middle East.
Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana is positioned as a Dhs4.7bn development. How did the partnership with Jacob & Co. come about, and what does this collaboration bring to the UAE luxury real estate market that hasn’t been seen before?
The partnership with Jacob & Co. came from a shared goal to create a development that goes beyond typical branded residences. We wanted to introduce something new to the UAE market — a project that redefines what it means to live luxuriously in the UAE, where a brand is involved in more than just name.
Jacob & Co. has been part of the creative process from the start, contributing to the design and detailing, including features like the 10-metre-wide ceiling timepiece in the grand lobby and brand interiors inspired by their most celebrated watches and jewellery. This level of involvement sets the project apart. It’s the first time a residential development in the region blends high-end coastal living with the design language of fine watchmaking and jewellery.
From Sky Mansions with 360-degree views to a 10-metre-wide ceiling timepiece and the world’s first Jacob & Co. Beach Club and branded Seafront Lounge. How does Ohana plan to operate and maintain these world-first amenities to meet global ultra-luxury standards long-term?
We recognise that design is only half the equation — true luxury is defined by how it endures and functions over time. At Ohana, operations and maintenance are treated with the same level of precision as the architecture. We’ve developed the entire service model in-house to reflect the Jacob & Co. standard, covering everything from lifestyle programming to amenity management.
A dedicated operations team will oversee all aspects of the resident experience – from concierge and hospitality services to security – ensuring a seamless, high-touch environment tailored for ultra-high-net-worth individuals. The goal is to keep the experience seamless and high-quality from day one, with systems in place to adapt to residents’ needs over time.
With the project slated for completion by Q2 2028, what steps are you taking to ensure timely delivery and what milestones should potential buyers and investors expect in the next year or two?
Timely delivery is a core part of our promise at Ohana Development. Because we manage the entire development process in-house — from master planning to execution — we maintain full control over timelines and quality. This ensures the project stays on track and meets our standards and architectural vision.
Over the next 12 to 24 months, buyers and investors can expect to see steady progress on the project, including foundational works, structural milestones and development updates. Our internal delivery team is fully focused on bringing this vision to life with precision.
Regular communication with our community will be a priority, ensuring that every stakeholder remains engaged throughout the journey.
What makes branded residences appealing to today’s high-net-worth buyers, and how do they differ from traditional luxury real estate offerings?
Branded residences appeal to today’s high-net-worth buyers because they offer more than just luxury finishes or prime locations — they offer a lifestyle tied to a brand they already trust. These buyers are more selective and value a sense of identity and consistency in their investments.
What sets branded residences apart from traditional luxury real estate is the added layer of design, service, and brand alignment. In the case of Jacob & Co., it’s not just about putting a logo on a building — it’s about reflecting the brand’s values throughout the project, from architecture to amenities. This makes the experience more distinctive, which is exactly what today’s buyers are looking for.
From a developer’s perspective, what are the key factors that determine the success of a branded residence project in today’s competitive market?
From a developer’s perspective, the success of a branded residence depends on three core elements – authenticity, quality execution, and long-term value. The brand should be fully integrated into the project, not just used for marketing. When there’s a true alignment between the brand’s identity and the development’s purpose, you create something far more compelling than just a luxury address.
Every part of the development, from the design to the service model, should reflect the brand’s identity. But that is only part of it. The quality of execution must meet expectations with strong design, reliable construction, and consistent delivery standards. The real test comes over time. A successful branded residence should grow in cultural and commercial value, becoming more desirable as the years go by, not fade.
We treat each project as a long-term investment, for both us and our buyers. We focus on building something that lasts, and that mindset is what sets us apart.
With the rise of branded residences globally, how is the Middle East market evolving in this segment, and what kind of demand trends are you seeing from regional and international buyers?
The Middle East is no longer reacting to global real estate trends — it’s actively shaping them. Branded residences are a clear reflection of this shift. In this region, and particularly in the UAE, such collaborations bring an added layer of quality, storytelling, and exclusivity that aligns with the expectations of today’s high-net-worth buyers.
These partnerships go beyond simple brand recognition; they’re about creating a lifestyle anchored in authenticity, heritage, and design integrity. Abu Dhabi is emerging as a key player in this segment. Its growing emphasis on cultural capital, sustainability, and long-term economic planning has positioned it as a destination of choice for investors seeking more than just real estate.
There’s a genuine interest in properties that offer meaning — where people feel part of a vision and a place.
We see these dynamics evolving in real time. Buyers today are more selective, design-aware, and globally connected. They’re not just investing in a home; they’re investing in a brand experience that reflects their values and aspirations. This is especially evident among younger regional buyers, who prioritise personalisation, wellness, privacy, and meaningful design. Branded residences, when done right, deliver on all of that — and that’s fundamentally reshaping how we approach architecture, digital integration, and community engagement in the region.
