Elle Residences to bring Parisian flair to Dubai Islands

Elle

Elle Residences to bring Parisian flair to Dubai Islands

August 21, 2025

Elle is set to expand its global property portfolio with a fashion-forward tower on Dubai Islands, following the success of its Miami development, designed by the teams behind the Dolce & Gabbana and Karl Lagerfeld residences. Olivia Palamountain reports

Fashion and lifestyle brand Elle is expanding into Middle Eastern real estate with its second residential project globally, launching Elle Residences Dubai Islands in partnership with local developer Anax Developments.

The project marks the first time the French-owned brand, part of Lagardère Group, has entered the Middle East property market following the success of its inaugural residential tower in Miami. The Dubai development will be designed by The One Atelier, the studio behind luxury residential projects for Dolce & Gabbana, Karl Lagerfeld and Fendi Casa.

Located on Dubai Islands, the waterfront development aims to blend Elle's signature Parisian aesthetic with Dubai's dynamic lifestyle through what the partners describe as "purposeful, joyful living" that reflects the magazine brand's cultural sophistication.

"We're thrilled to bring Elle's lifestyle to Dubai through our partnership for Elle Residences on Dubai Islands," says Satish Sanpal, chairman of Anax Developments. "Dubai, a city synonymous with design and global appeal, is the perfect setting for this bold new venture."

The collaboration represents a strategic expansion of Elle's lifestyle portfolio beyond traditional media into real estate, leveraging the brand's global recognition across 50 international editions reaching more than 250 million people worldwide.

Arquinaut, the international design studio that created the original Elle Residences concept, will provide co-creative direction for both architecture and interiors alongside The One Atelier. The partnership aims to integrate Elle's global aesthetic with local inspiration to create what designers term a "distinctive residential narrative."

"With Elle Residences Dubai Islands, we are working closely with the brand to craft a concept that channels Elle's Parisian sensibility through the lens of Dubai's dynamic lifestyle," says Michele Galli, chief executive of The One Atelier. "This is a rare opportunity to create a project that resonates emotionally and culturally with a global audience."

The development will feature curated interiors, wellness offerings, social and dining spaces, plus beachfront access and views of Dubai's skyline. Residents will experience what is described as a seamless integration of fashion with functional design.

Constance Benqué, chief executive of Elle International and Lagardère News, positions the project as an evolution of the brand's approach to lifestyle experiences. "Blending timeless French flair with Dubai's bold energy, this second project marks a dynamic evolution - an immersive concept that invites residents to experience a unique and elevated place to call home," she says.

The announcement coincides with Anax's launch of a "Model Hunt" to discover the "Face of Anax" for a campaign running until the project's official launch. Dubai-based Pixl Global will handle global marketing strategy across Middle East, UK and US markets.

The project reflects Dubai's growing appeal for international branded residences, with luxury fashion and lifestyle companies increasingly extending their reach into high-end real estate. Dubai Islands represents one of the emirate's most ambitious waterfront developments, offering proximity to cultural and retail destinations.

Further details about Elle Residences Dubai Islands, including sales timelines and unit configurations, will be announced in coming months as the project moves toward construction phase.

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