The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah: A Past Destination, A Future Question

Once considered one of Dubai’s most vibrant waterfront destinations, The Pointe at Palm Jumeirah was home to international restaurants, retail outlets, and the world’s largest dancing fountain. Operated by Nakheel, it offered stunning views of Atlantis The Palm and became a go-to spot for tourists and residents alike.

However, in early 2023, Nakheel announced the unexpected closure of The Pointe, leaving visitors, tenants, and investors questioning the future of this prime coastal site. As we step into 2025, the spotlight shifts to what lies ahead: Will The Pointe be reimagined into something new? Or has it quietly exited Dubai’s evolving real estate landscape?

Closure of The Pointe: What Happened in 2023–2024?

In early 2023, Nakheel Properties officially announced the full closure of The Pointe, asking all tenants to vacate their premises. The decision came as a surprise to many, especially given the location’s popularity and the substantial investments made into its infrastructure — including the record-breaking Palm Fountain, which was decommissioned shortly after.

By mid-2023, nearly all commercial activity at The Pointe had ceased. Restaurants, cafes, and retail outlets shuttered their doors, and the area was fenced off from public access. While Nakheel did not provide detailed reasons at the time, industry insiders pointed to broader redevelopment plans and a strategic shift in the company’s vision for Palm Jumeirah.

Throughout 2024, no major public announcements were made regarding the site’s future, leaving the once-bustling destination in a state of uncertainty. Speculations arose regarding possible rebranding, demolition, or transformation into a new luxury waterfront project in line with Dubai’s evolving urban trends.

What’s Next for The Pointe in 2025?

As of 2025, The Pointe remains officially closed, with no formal redevelopment project publicly announced by Nakheel. However, given Dubai’s fast-paced real estate dynamics and Nakheel’s ongoing focus on luxury lifestyle projects, industry experts believe that the site will not remain idle for long.

The location itself — directly facing Atlantis The Palm, with panoramic waterfront views — makes it one of the most valuable pieces of real estate in Palm Jumeirah. Several real estate analysts speculate that Nakheel may be planning to transform the area into a new high-end residential development, a hospitality-focused project, or an exclusive mixed-use destination aligned with the aesthetics of Palm Jumeirah.

There are also discussions within the property community suggesting that Nakheel may be waiting for the full launch of projects like Palm Jebel Ali before revealing its updated master plan for The Pointe, to better position it within the broader scope of luxury waterfront offerings in Dubai.

Impact on Residents, Investors, and the Local Community

The sudden closure of The Pointe had mixed implications for different stakeholders. For residents of Palm Jumeirah and surrounding communities, the loss of a major dining and leisure hub was significant. The Pointe had become a lifestyle destination — offering not only F&B options but also regular entertainment events and scenic seaside experiences.

Investors and commercial tenants, on the other hand, faced abrupt disruptions. Some businesses had only recently launched operations before being asked to vacate, prompting concerns around transparency and the protection of tenant interests in large-scale development zones. While Nakheel did manage the shutdown professionally, the lack of a clear public redevelopment timeline left many in a state of financial and strategic limbo.

For potential investors in Dubai’s evolving property market, the event served as a reminder of the importance of reviewing long-term masterplans and development policies when choosing commercial or retail real estate in rapidly changing environments like Palm Jumeirah.

What The Pointe Tells Us About Dubai’s Real Estate Evolution

The story of The Pointe is more than just the closure of a waterfront destination — it’s a reflection of Dubai’s ever-evolving approach to urban planning and real estate development. As the city continues to position itself as a global leader in luxury living, tourism, and innovation, outdated or underperforming areas are often reimagined or repurposed to align with new market demands.

Dubai’s shift toward ultra-luxury communities, branded residences, and integrated lifestyle experiences means that even prime locations like The Pointe are subject to change. Projects that once seemed permanent may be replaced by concepts that better reflect the city’s 2040 Urban Master Plan — which emphasizes walkability, smart infrastructure, and sustainable living.

The Pointe’s transformation (or lack thereof) is a reminder that in Dubai’s real estate landscape, adaptability is key. Stakeholders — whether residents, investors, or developers — must remain agile, well-informed, and forward-looking in their strategies.

Looking Ahead – The Pointe in Context

While The Pointe once symbolized waterfront leisure on Palm Jumeirah, its closure highlights the pace at which Dubai reinvents itself. As of 2025, its future remains officially unannounced — but its prime location and value suggest that redevelopment is not a question of if, but when.

For now, investors and residents are keeping a close eye on Nakheel’s next move. Whether the site evolves into an ultra-luxury residential enclave, a hospitality landmark, or a mixed-use concept, it’s clear that The Pointe will continue to be part of Dubai’s dynamic growth story — just in a different form.

In a city where innovation and reinvention are the norm, The Pointe reminds us that the most iconic destinations are not always permanent — but their stories pave the way for the next chapter in Dubai’s ambitious vision.