Real estate developer H&H has unveiled Water Gardens, a new mixed-use development situated in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). Construction on the project is already underway, with completion scheduled for 2028.

Pritzker Prize winner Sir David Chipperfield designed the architecture for the four buildings comprising the development, which are arranged around a pedestrian public realm and central garden. Bureau Bas Smets designed the central landscape and water features, while interior designers Patricia Urquiola, Tihany Design and Tristan Auer shaped distinct internal areas across the project. Studio KKD was appointed to design the retail and dining spaces.

The commercial component, known as The Offices at Water Gardens, offers 21,965 square metres of Grade A net leasable area. The workplace facility includes three floors of micro-suites alongside larger office spaces and is targeting LEED Platinum certification, with JLL serving as the exclusive leasing partner.

Pedestrian routes link the elevated scheme directly to surrounding streets, including Al Sukook Street and Al Mustaqbal Street, while subterranean connections link into Gate Avenue retail areas.

Shahab Lutfi, Chairman of H&H, said: “With Water Gardens, we wanted to create a destination that reflects the full rhythm of contemporary life, where work, dining, family, social connection, wellness and time for oneself can co-exist naturally within one environment. The architecture, interiors and landscape are conceived as one cohesive experience, creating a sense of balance across a destination, that is lively, engaging and distinctive in character, while offering moments that feel more personal and considered. What matters is that everyone can experience Water Gardens differently, finding their own way of spending time there. This reflects a broader philosophy at H&H: creating places with a clear sense of purpose, designed around how people live, work and connect, allowing those experiences to evolve over time.”

Saleh Al Akrabi, Chief Real Estate Officer at DIFC Investments Ltd., said: “Water Gardens is a superb addition to DIFC, connecting the district in a distinctive way while reflecting the breadth of experiences it offers today. As one of the final components of the original Gate District masterplan, it is fitting that this development strengthens the physical and experiential connections across the district in such a distinctive way. By seamlessly linking workplaces, hospitality, retail, public spaces and residences, Water Gardens reflects how DIFC has evolved into a destination where business, culture and lifestyle come together. It enhances the experience of the district for our community while providing businesses, residents and visitors with access to the very best of Dubai in one of the city’s most iconic destinations.”