The Astera, Interiors by Aston Martin

The Astera, Interiors by Aston Martin, developed by Dar Global—a London-listed firm with USD 5.9 billion in projects across six countries—rises as a 19-storey development on Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah. Valued at AED 900 million (USD 245 million), the project, launched in June 2024, includes 260 residences and marks Aston Martin’s first real estate venture in the Middle East. Construction began in Q4 2024, with completion planned for Q4 2028, building on Dar Global’s track record of delivering 5,400 units since 2017. Positioned opposite the upcoming Wynn Al Marjan Island resort, due in 2027 with the UAE’s first casino, The Astera benefits from Ras Al Khaimah’s USD 15 billion tourism plan, including USD 3 billion for Al Marjan’s expansion. Freehold ownership, available to all nationalities since 2006, has enabled 5,000+ foreign-owned properties in Ras Al Khaimah by 2024, anchoring the project in a growing market. Aston Martin’s design expertise enhances its draw, fitting Al Marjan’s 7.8 km of coastline and 2 million annual visitors.

Residence Specifications

The residences range from 65 to 266 square metres, offering 1-bedroom apartments of 65 to 90 square metres, 2-bedroom units of 120 to 150 square metres, 3-bedroom apartments of 200 to 220 square metres, and 3-bedroom duplex villas of 250 to 266 square metres. Aston Martin’s interiors feature clean lines, leather finishes, polished metals, and exotic woods, reflecting the brand’s automotive heritage. Kitchens include Miele appliances like induction hobs and smart refrigerators, set against quartz countertops. Bathrooms have Italian porcelain, rainfall showers, and freestanding tubs, while smart home systems manage lighting, climate, and security through mobile apps, tied to Ras Al Khaimah’s 5G network. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide views of the Arabian Gulf or Wynn Al Marjan Island, with villas offering 15- to 20-square-metre terraces. Duplexes include rooftop decks and 8-square-metre plunge pools for exclusivity. The Aston Martin brand adds a 15-30% price premium, with residences selling 80% faster than non-branded, boosting resale value.

Amenities

The Astera’s amenities elevate coastal living with a focus on comfort and exclusivity. A 1,000-square-metre infinity pool on the podium level overlooks the Gulf, surrounded by cabanas for 40 guests. A 1,500-square-metre spa offers eight treatment suites, a sauna, and a yoga lawn, promoting relaxation. Fitness facilities cover 1,200 square metres, equipped with Technogym machines, a spin studio, and a 20-metre lap pool. Entertainment includes a 500-square-metre cinema seating 30, a multipurpose hall for 100, and a residents’ lounge with a bar. Dining options feature three cafés seating 50 each and a poolside bar, designed for sophistication. Outdoor spaces span 5 hectares, with a 2 km walk track, communal gardens, and direct access to Al Marjan’s private beach. Security comprises 24/7 AI-enhanced cameras and concierge services, matching the 92% satisfaction rate of Dar Global’s projects. An 800-square-metre children’s play area with water features caters to families, aligning with 80% of UAE buyers valuing integrated amenities.

Community Benefits

Al Marjan Island, a cluster of four man-made islands, balances tranquility with connectivity, with The Astera located opposite Wynn Al Marjan Island, 10 minutes from Al Hamra Village. The island’s 7.8 km of beaches draw 2 million visitors yearly, with nearby resorts like Mövenpick Al Marjan and Pullman, both within 2 km, adding vibrancy. Al Hamra Golf Club, 3 km away, offers an 18-hole course, while Al Hamra Mall, 4 km away, serves 1 million shoppers annually with 100+ stores. Education options include RAK Academy Al Hamra, 5 km away with 2,000+ students, and New British International School, 6 km away. RAK Hospital, 15 km away, provides 500+ beds for healthcare. Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, 30 minutes away, served 1.5 million passengers in 2024, connecting to 40+ destinations. The island’s 90% luxury occupancy rate underscores demand, supported by its marine ecosystem and proximity to Dubai, an hour away via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road.

Ownership Advantages

The Astera provides strong financial and residency benefits. Freehold ownership, legal for all nationalities since 2006, has enabled 5,000+ foreign-owned properties in Ras Al Khaimah, creating a solid market. Investments of AED 2,000,000 qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa, with 3,000+ issued in Al Marjan by 2024, covering residency for families and staff. Ras Al Khaimah’s tax structure eliminates personal income tax, capital gains tax, and inheritance tax, saving investors 20-30% compared to markets like London. Payment plans follow an 80/20 structure—20% down (AED 360,000), 60% over 48 months at 1.25% monthly, and 20% on handover—reducing upfront costs by 10%. Aston Martin-branded residences offer 15-30% higher resale values, selling 80% faster than non-branded, aligning with Ras Al Khaimah’s aim to grow foreign ownership to 20% by 2030, from 10% in 2024. Owners can resell after paying 30% of the property value, enabling early gains.

Alignment with Market Trends

Al Marjan Island’s residential market saw 10% price growth in 2024, with luxury apartments yielding 8-10%, surpassing Dubai’s 6% apartment average. The Astera is projected to grow 10-12% annually through 2028, fueled by 90% occupancy and Ras Al Khaimah’s USD 15 billion tourism vision, including USD 3.9 billion for Wynn Al Marjan Island. Dar Global’s track record—5,400 units delivered with 98% on-time completion—outpaces the GCC’s 85% average, reducing risks seen in 20% of UAE projects. Aston Martin’s brand, with 110+ years of craftsmanship, drives demand, with 65% of GCC buyers targeting branded residences in 2025. Ras Al Khaimah welcomed 1.6 million visitors in 2024, up 20%, with Al Marjan hosting 800,000, boosted by events like the RAK New Year’s Eve festival. The UAE’s first casino, opening in 2027, will add 5% to returns. Freehold access and tourism growth complement branding, in a market growing 8% annually to USD 20 billion by 2029.

Architectural and Sustainability Features

Designed by Gensler, known for Dubai’s Burj Al Arab, The Astera’s 19-storey structure mirrors ocean waves, using 60% locally sourced stone to cut emissions by 12%. Its 260 residences feature fluid glass facades and 4-metre ceilings, maximizing Gulf views. Aston Martin’s interiors, inspired by the DB12 AMR, incorporate leather, wood, and metal accents for timeless elegance. Sustainability includes solar panels powering 15% of communal areas, saving 800,000 kWh annually, and a greywater system recycling 500,000 litres yearly for landscaping. Smart thermostats reduce cooling costs by 20%, aligning with Ras Al Khaimah’s 2040 sustainability goals, lowering The Astera’s footprint 15% below Al Marjan’s average. These features blend luxury with environmental care, setting a coastal standard.

Developer and Partnership Strengths

Dar Global, founded in 2017, oversees USD 5.9 billion in projects, partnering with brands like Versace and Pagani across the UAE, Oman, and Spain. Their 98% completion rate contrasts with 20% of UAE projects facing delays, ensuring reliability. Aston Martin, established in 1913, brings 110+ years of design expertise, with 95% global recognition. Their first Middle East real estate project amplifies appeal, with 65% of GCC high-net-worth individuals eyeing branded residences in 2025. Dar Global’s regulatory navigation, unlike 15% of foreign developers, paired with Aston Martin’s craftsmanship, mitigates risks seen in 10% of Al Marjan projects, creating a partnership built for success.

Investment Potential Analysis

The Astera’s financial prospects are strong, anchored in Al Marjan’s vibrant market. Rental yields average 8-10%, with 2-bedroom units generating AED 80,000–120,000 annually, driven by 90% occupancy. Capital growth is projected at 10-12% annually through 2028, with Al Marjan up 35% since 2023. Branded residences sell in 60 days, 80% faster than non-branded, ensuring liquidity. Ras Al Khaimah’s 5% GDP growth in 2025, outpacing London’s 2%, and 1% inflation rate reduce volatility. Demand is robust, with 65% of high-net-worth individuals targeting Al Marjan properties in 2025, in a market growing 8% annually to USD 20 billion by 2029, supported by 2.5% population growth, double Dubai’s 1.2%.