J8

TL;DR: J8 is a completed 9-storey (G+8) freehold residential building in Al Sufouh 1's Sufouh Gardens, developed by Aqua Properties and handed over in September 2016. Housing 92 premium apartments (1BR: 815–910 sq. ft., 2BR: up to 1,464 sq. ft., 3BR: ~2,022 sq. ft.), the building features a rooftop infinity pool, 5-star lobby, and concierge service. Located on one of the rare freehold plots in the Jumeirah corridor—just 7 minutes from Burj Al Arab and within walking distance of Al Sufouh Beach—it delivers rental yields of 7.3–7.9% at price points significantly below Dubai Marina (AED 1,301/sqft vs. AED 2,000–2,400/sqft) and Palm Jumeirah (AED 3,400/sqft).

Introduction to J8 Apartments

J8 (also marketed as J8 by Aqua Properties or AQUA J8) is a distinctive low-rise residential development situated within the exclusive Sufouh Gardens enclave of Al Sufouh 1, one of Dubai's most coveted coastal neighborhoods. Developed by Aqua Properties—a firm with over 20 years of UAE real estate experience, 6,000+ delivered units, and 10,000+ properties sold—and completed in September 2016, this boutique G+8 building houses a carefully curated collection of just 92 premium apartments across 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom configurations.

What distinguishes J8 in the Dubai market is its extraordinary positioning: the building sits on one of the very few freehold plots within the greater Jumeirah and Al Sufouh district, a distinction approved by TECOM Group and Tamdeen that allows foreign investors to hold full freehold title with no time restrictions. This rare combination of freehold ownership, Jumeirah-corridor prestige, beachfront proximity, and luxury boutique living at a price point significantly below neighboring communities like Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah makes J8 one of the most compelling value propositions in Dubai's established residential market.

Location and Connectivity

J8 is located at 24b Al Soufor Street, Al Sufouh 1, within the Sufouh Gardens sub-community—a designated residential enclave containing 16 building developments (13 completed, 2 under construction). The building occupies a strategic coastal position between two of Dubai's most prestigious waterfront stretches, with the Arabian Gulf coastline and Al Sufouh Beach within walking distance.

Landmark Distances:

• Burj Al Arab: approximately 7 minutes drive (~1.5 km)
• Al Sufouh Beach ("Secret Beach"): walking distance / direct access
• Souk Madinat Jumeirah: approximately 7 minutes drive
• Wild Wadi Waterpark: approximately 8 minutes drive
• Palm Jumeirah: approximately 10 minutes drive
• Mall of the Emirates (with Ski Dubai, 630+ retail outlets): approximately 8–12 minutes drive
• Nakheel Mall (Palm Jumeirah): approximately 9 minutes drive
• Dubai Marina: approximately 15 minutes drive
• Dubai International Airport: approximately 20–23 minutes drive (34.3 km)

Business and Free Zone Proximity: J8 is optimally positioned for professionals working in Dubai's technology, media, and education free zones:

• Dubai Internet City (DIC): approximately 5–6 minutes drive
• Dubai Media City (DMC): approximately 8 minutes drive
• Dubai Knowledge Park (DKP): approximately 6 minutes drive
• Dubai Knowledge Village: immediately adjacent in Al Sufouh 2
• American University of Dubai: in Al Sufouh 2, adjacent
• Dubai College: within Al Sufouh 1 sub-district

Transport Infrastructure: The Dubai Tram (T1 Line), opened November 12, 2014, operates directly along Al Sufouh Road with the Al Sufouh Tram Station (Station 11, terminus) being the nearest stop to J8. The tram's 11-station, 14.5 km route connects to the Metro Red Line at two interchange points: DMCC Station (formerly JLT Station) and Sobha Realty Station, providing seamless multi-modal transit access to Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, and Dubai International Airport. Tram operating hours are 6:00 AM–12:24 AM weekdays/Saturdays and 9:00 AM–12:20 AM Sundays, at AED 3 per single trip via Nol Card.

The nearest Metro Red Line station is Dubai Internet City Metro Station, approximately 6–7 minutes by car. Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), Dubai's primary arterial highway, runs parallel to Al Sufouh Road and provides rapid access to all major business districts. Bus Routes 8, 88, and N55 serve the area from King Salman Bin Abdul Saeed Al Saud Street and Dubai College stops.

Architecture and Building Specifications

J8 rises 9 storeys (Ground + 8 upper floors) above the Al Sufouh 1 streetscape, maintaining the low-rise character that defines this exclusive residential pocket while still commanding views of the Arabian Gulf and the iconic Burj Al Arab silhouette. The building's design prioritizes a resort-like residential experience, opening with a lavish 5-star entrance lobby that sets the tone for the entire living environment.

The architectural approach combines modern sophistication with practical functionality, featuring clean contemporary lines and generous use of glass to maximize natural light and the surrounding sea and city views. The building incorporates central air-conditioning and heating throughout, high-speed elevators for efficient vertical movement, and a comprehensive CCTV surveillance system. The community operates as a gated development, reinforcing the sense of privacy and exclusivity that defines the Sufouh Gardens experience. Notably, J8 maintains a pet-friendly policy, broadening its appeal among Dubai's expatriate community.

Residential Units and Configurations

J8 offers three primary apartment configurations, each designed to deliver spacious, luxury living within a boutique community setting:

1-Bedroom Apartments (815–910 sq. ft.): These generously proportioned one-bedroom residences feature open-plan living areas, fully fitted kitchens, premium bathroom finishes, built-in wardrobes, and private balconies offering views of the Burj Al Arab or the Arabian Sea. Current market sale prices range from AED 835,000 to AED 1,375,000, with annual rental income of AED 60,000–87,000, delivering a gross rental yield of approximately 7.9%. Floor plan Type A configurations are available across the building.

2-Bedroom Apartments (1,432–1,464 sq. ft.): Expansive family-oriented residences with separate living and dining areas, two full bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, premium fitted kitchen, and generous balcony space. Current sale prices range from AED 1,200,000 to AED 1,375,000, with annual rental income of AED 76,000–95,000 and a gross rental yield of approximately 7.3%. Floor plan Type B configurations offer efficient, well-proportioned layouts.

3-Bedroom Apartments (~2,022 sq. ft.): The building's largest configurations, designed for families requiring substantial space within the boutique tower format. These premium residences (Floor plan Type C) deliver the full J8 experience at its most generous scale, with sweeping views and luxurious finishes throughout.

All units are characterized by high-quality interior finishes, majestic views of either the Burj Al Arab or the Arabian Sea, and the natural light that comes from the building's glass-forward design approach. The average price per square foot across the building stands at approximately AED 1,301.

Amenities and Lifestyle

J8 delivers a five-star, resort-style amenity package that significantly exceeds what is typically found in a 92-unit boutique building:

• 5-Star Entrance Lobby: An opulently designed ground-floor lobby featuring 24-hour concierge services and professional security—setting a hotel-grade standard from the moment residents and guests enter the building.
• Rooftop Infinity Pool: The building's crowning feature, positioned on the rooftop level to capture panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and the Burj Al Arab. The pool is accompanied by a beautifully landscaped rooftop garden, creating a premium outdoor relaxation space.
• Gymnasium: A fully equipped state-of-the-art fitness center for daily workouts and wellness routines.
• Sauna and Steam Room: Dedicated post-workout and wellness facilities, reinforcing the building's spa-resort character.
• Children's Play Area: A dedicated recreation zone for younger residents, supporting the family-friendly community dynamic.
• BBQ Area: Outdoor barbecue facilities for resident gatherings and social events.
• Covered Parking: One dedicated parking space per apartment, with covered configurations protecting vehicles from the elements.
• Valet Parking: Additional parking convenience for residents and guests.
• 24/7 Security: Round-the-clock security with comprehensive CCTV surveillance throughout common areas.
• Retail and Dining: Podium-level commercial units including retail shops and restaurants, enhancing the self-contained lifestyle experience.

Beyond the building, residents benefit from Al Sufouh's exceptional leisure ecosystem. The Al Sufouh Beach—a less crowded, quieter alternative to JBR Beach—is within walking distance, offering a fishing pier, volleyball facilities, and direct swimming access. Souk Madinat Jumeirah, approximately 7 minutes away, provides an unparalleled dining, retail, and entertainment experience set against traditional Arabian architecture. Mall of the Emirates, home to Ski Dubai and 630+ retail outlets, is 8–12 minutes by car.

Nearby Education and Healthcare

Schools within 5–10 minutes:

• Dubai College (within Al Sufouh 1 sub-district)
• The International School of Choueifat
• GEMS Wellington International School (England National Curriculum, Foundation Stage 1–Year 13; fees AED 45,259–98,465 per annum)
• GEMS Dubai American Academy
• iCademy Middle East
• American University of Dubai (Al Sufouh 2, adjacent)

Healthcare:

• Al Zahra Hospital Dubai (Al Barsha): 6 minutes drive
• Medcare Medical Centre: nearby
• Pharmacies within the community: Aster, Marina, Med 7 Faith Acacia

Developer Profile: Aqua Properties

Aqua Properties (also operating as AQUA Developments) was founded in 2005 by Ali Tumbi and has grown into one of Dubai's most established integrated real estate firms. Over two decades, the company has sold 10,000+ properties, rented 15,000+ units, and delivered 6,000+ residential and commercial units. The firm employs 700+ staff across 50+ nationalities in 4 Dubai offices and has earned 16–25 industry awards, including "Best Real Estate Brokerage Dubai" (2017) and "Best Mixed-Use Development Arabia" for The Central Downtown at the International Property Awards.

Within Sufouh Gardens specifically, Aqua Properties delivered both J5 (48 units, 6 storeys, completed August 2015) and J8 (92 units, G+8, completed September 2016), establishing the firm as the defining residential developer in this exclusive enclave. The company's current pipeline includes The Central Downtown in Arjan (a mixed-use development with 4 towers, studios to 3BR, wave pool, and retail, targeting Q4 2026 completion). Aqua Properties also operates Global REIT, described as the world's first blockchain-based Real Estate Investment Trust, and announced an AED 3 billion project lineup in December 2023.

Investment Analysis and Market Positioning

J8 occupies a distinctive niche in Dubai's investment landscape, combining freehold Jumeirah-corridor prestige with rental yields that outperform significantly more expensive neighboring communities:

J8 Building-Specific Metrics:

• Average price per sq. ft.: AED 1,301
• Average transaction value: AED 1,400,714
• 1BR gross rental yield: 7.9%
• 2BR gross rental yield: 7.3%
• Service charges: AED 13.49 per sq. ft. per annum (RERA/DLD registered)
• For a 900 sq. ft. 1BR: annual service charge approximately AED 12,141
• For a 1,464 sq. ft. 2BR: annual service charge approximately AED 19,733

Comparative Market Positioning (Price per Sq. Ft.): | Community | Avg. Price/Sqft (AED) | Avg. Rental Yield | |---|---|---| | Al Sufouh 1 (J8) | ~1,301 | 7.3–7.9% | | JBR | ~1,550 | ~8% | | Dubai Marina | 2,000–2,400 | ~6–6.5% | | Palm Jumeirah | ~3,400 | ~5–5.2% |

J8's value proposition is immediately apparent: it delivers rental yields 1.3–2.7 percentage points above Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah at entry prices that are 35–62% lower. The building sits at AED 1,301/sqft versus AED 2,000–2,400/sqft for Dubai Marina and AED 3,400/sqft for Palm Jumeirah, while achieving higher returns due to strong tenant demand driven by proximity to DIC, DMC, and the Jumeirah beach corridor.

The Al Sufouh 1 micro-market benefits from structural scarcity: Sufouh Gardens contains only 16 building developments (13 completed), creating a limited-supply environment that supports both rental demand and long-term capital appreciation. The freehold designation in an area where most properties are leasehold adds a further premium to the ownership proposition.

Al Sufouh: The Neighborhood Advantage

Al Sufouh occupies a privileged position along Dubai's western coastline, sandwiched between the Arabian Gulf and Sheikh Zayed Road. The neighborhood divides into Al Sufouh 1 (residential, where J8 is located) and Al Sufouh 2 (dominated by Dubai Internet City, Dubai Knowledge Village, and educational institutions). This dual character creates a self-reinforcing ecosystem: Al Sufouh 2's tech and media employers generate a steady stream of high-income professionals who seek residential proximity in Al Sufouh 1.

The area's demographic profile reflects this dynamic: predominantly expatriate (consistent with Dubai's 90%+ expat composition), with a mix of tech and media professionals, hospitality industry workers, academics, and high-net-worth residents attracted by the beachfront positioning and Jumeirah address. The neighborhood offers a quieter, more exclusive residential atmosphere compared to the density and tourist footfall of Dubai Marina and JBR, while maintaining comparable or superior access to the same lifestyle amenities—beaches, world-class dining at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, and premium retail at Mall of the Emirates.

The presence of one of Dubai's most prestigious educational clusters within walking distance—including Dubai College, American University of Dubai, and GEMS Wellington International School—further reinforces J8's appeal to families seeking both lifestyle quality and educational convenience in a single location.

Data sourced from Aqua Properties Official, Bayut Building Guide, FAM Properties, Property Finder, FazWaz, Provident Estate, Dubai Metro Guide, and RERA/DLD Service Charge Registry.