Arada Sells DIFC’s Largest Apartment at Akala for $34M

Sharjah-based developer Arada has achieved a landmark sale with “The Observatory”, a two-storey, six-bedroom penthouse at its wellness-focused Akala development, adjacent to the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). At $34 million (AED 125 million), it sets a new record as the most expensive and largest apartment ever sold in DIFC, spanning over 23,000 square feet.

A record-breaking trophy home

Situated at the top of one of Akala’s twin 220-metre towers, The Observatory offers breathtaking, unblocked 360-degree views of the Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, DIFC and Za’abeel. The two-storey design includes a “Grand Room” for entertaining, separate public and private living wings, an art gallery, and a rooftop terrace with a private pool and Jacuzzi.

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said:

“We have positioned Akala as the world’s most advanced wellness residences, and this sale underscores the strength of demand for a new category of real estate… speaks to the strength of Akala’s location, product quality and brand positioning.”

Wellness-centric living

Akala will feature 534 branded residences along with a five-star hotel. Each residence will integrate wellness-oriented features including air and water purification systems, circadian lighting, organic sleep systems, and intelligent climate control. Shared amenities span 13,000 square meters and include a clinical wellness center, gym, yoga and meditation studios, and the Akala Spa.

Residents will benefit from Akala’s AI-enabled “weightless” service model, which provides wellness concierges, in-home treatments, and curated meal planning. The project is pre-certified for LEED Gold and WELL Silver standards.

Location and delivery timeline

Akala is strategically located between DIFC and Downtown Dubai, near Index Tower and Central Park Towers, offering easy access to key destinations and transportation links. Construction will begin in 2026, with completion targeted for the end of 2029.

Significance in Dubai’s 2025 luxury market This transaction ranks among the top 10 apartment sales in Dubai this year. It reflects growing demand for unique luxury residences that offer size, privacy, wellness features, and central location, without being tied to the waterfront.

About Arada and Akala

Arada is a UAE-based developer established in 2017, with over $16.3 billion (AED 60 billion) in projects across Sharjah and Dubai

Akala is Arada’s first precision wellness hospitality and branded residences concept, housed in twin 220-meter towers and offering 534 residences

Prices at Akala begin at $1.03 million (AED 3.79 million) for one-bedroom units, with penthouses ranging from $9.2 million (AED 33.9 million) to $40.8 million (AED 150 million)

Arada’s sale of The Observatory signals a new era for ultra-luxury living in DIFC. Combining world-class design, advanced wellness integration, and prime location, Akala is setting a new benchmark for residential excellence in Dubai.