Aljada Sharjah: Largest Freehold Project - Developer Execution Analysis

By Dr. Pooyan Ghamari

Executive Summary

Aljada, ARADA's ambitious AED 30 billion master-planned development in Sharjah's New Sharjah district, stands as the emirate's largest freehold mixed-use project, spanning 24 million square feet with residential, commercial, entertainment, and cultural elements. Launched in 2017, this integrated city-within-a-city features modern apartments, townhouses, villas, and lifestyle hubs like MADAR entertainment complex, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects. As of December 2025, Aljada progresses strongly with multiple phases delivered, including residential blocks in Boulevard and Rehan districts, and ongoing expansions in Sokoon and Nasaq.

The project's execution highlights ARADA's commitment to timely handovers, innovative design, and sustainability, attracting families and investors with competitive pricing – apartments from AED 600,000 and villas AED 2-5 million – alongside yields of 7-9%. Connectivity via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road ensures 10-15 minute drives to Dubai Airport. Amenities include parks, schools, retail boulevards, and cultural venues, fostering a vibrant, walkable community. Aljada's scale and quality position it as a transformative force in Sharjah's real estate, offering strong appreciation potential and lifestyle appeal in a cultural, tax-free setting.

Company and Market Background

ARADA, established in 2017 by Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi and Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal, has rapidly become Sharjah's premier developer, focusing on large-scale, integrated communities. Aljada, its second major project after Al Zahia, represents a AED 30 billion investment transforming underutilized land into a dynamic urban hub. The masterplan integrates residential zones with commercial, educational, and leisure facilities, emphasizing pedestrian-friendly design and green spaces.

Key features include the Zaha Hadid-designed MADAR family entertainment complex, Il Teatro arts venue, skate parks, and extensive retail. In 2025, ARADA advances deliveries across phases, with Boulevard apartments and Rehan townhouses handed over, while Sokoon and Nasaq progress toward completion.

Sharjah's market in late 2025 thrives on affordability and cultural depth, with freehold projects like Aljada drawing Dubai spillover. Demand from families and professionals supports high occupancy, with yields outperforming at 7-9% for apartments. Off-plan sales dominate with flexible plans, while ready units command premiums for immediate access. Aljada's execution – marked by on-time handovers and quality – enhances ARADA's reputation, driving sustained interest in Sharjah's premium segment.

Detailed Analysis

ARADA's developer execution in Aljada showcases meticulous planning and innovative architecture, creating a cohesive urban ecosystem. Residential offerings span smart apartments in mid-rise towers, contemporary townhouses, and limited villas, with features like open layouts, high ceilings, and sustainable materials. Districts vary: Boulevard emphasizes vibrant urban living with retail podiums, Rehan offers family townhouses with gardens, Sokoon focuses on wellness-inspired apartments.

The MADAR complex serves as the cultural heart, with flowing designs promoting community interaction.

Contrasting asset classes, apartments versus townhouses highlight Aljada's breadth. Apartments predominate, providing 1-3 bedroom units (600-2,000 square feet) with shared pools, gyms, and boulevard views. These suit young professionals or smaller families, delivering high yields 8-9% from rental demand near universities and hubs. Prices reflect value, with strong 2025 appreciation in delivered phases.

Townhouses, in clusters like Rehan, offer 3-4 bedroom layouts (2,000-3,500 square feet) with private outdoor spaces, maid's quarters, and gated access. These appeal to families prioritizing privacy and community, achieving yields around 7% with superior retention and capital growth from scarcity. While apartments provide vertical vibrancy and income focus, townhouses deliver horizontal comfort and lifestyle depth, often outperforming in family segments.

This mix – dynamic efficiency versus spacious serenity – underscores ARADA's successful execution, with phased deliveries and amenity maturation driving Aljada's evolution into Sharjah's premier destination.

Pros and Cons

Aljada transforms Sharjah living through visionary scale and execution, blending urban energy with cultural tranquility in a walkable, green environment. Innovative amenities like MADAR, parks, and retail boulevards create engaging daily experiences, ideal for families and professionals. High-quality construction, smart integrations, and sustainability features ensure modern appeal, while events and facilities promote community cohesion.

Investment strengths include attractive yields, appreciation from project momentum, and affordability versus Dubai. Excellent connectivity and planned schools enhance practicality.

Challenges include ongoing construction in later phases potentially causing temporary disruption, and Sharjah's regulatory environment differing from Dubai's flexibility. Peak traffic on access roads can occur, and full retail/entertainment activation progressing. Service charges reflect extensive facilities, and the large scale may feel overwhelming initially.

On balance, the exceptional execution, lifestyle innovation, and value proposition make advantages dominant for forward-thinking buyers.

Buyer Recommendations

Yield-focused investors should prioritize apartments in delivered or near-completion districts like Boulevard for high returns and liquidity.

Family end-users would benefit from townhouses in Rehan or similar, offering space and community amenities for long-term residency.

Investor Profile 1: Urban Yield Buyer Young professionals seeking income and vibrancy. Select 1-2 bedroom apartments near MADAR for rental demand and 8-9% yields.

Investor Profile 2: Family Lifestyle Resident Multigenerational households valuing culture and space. Choose 3+ bedroom townhouses with gardens, emphasizing parks and events.

Checklist for Potential Buyers:

• Evaluate phase delivery status and construction impact.
• Review ARADA's handover track record.
• Analyze yields from comparable districts.
• Experience MADAR and boulevards onsite.
• Test commutes to Dubai/Sharjah centers.
• Assess service charges versus amenities.
• Confirm smart features and sustainability.
• Verify freehold and family policies.
• Budget for community maturation.
• Prioritize entertainment or green views.

ALand

ALand FZE operates under a valid Business License issued by Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone, Government of Sharjah (License No. 4204524.01). Under its licensed activities, ALand provides independent real estate consulting, commercial intermediation, and investment advisory services worldwide. Through a structured network of cooperation with licensed developers, brokers, and real estate firms in the UAE and internationally, ALand assists clients in identifying suitable opportunities, evaluating conditions, and navigating transactions in a secure and informed manner. ALand’s role is to support clients in finding the best available offers under the most appropriate conditions, using professional market analysis, verified partner connections, and transparent advisory processes designed to protect client interests and reduce execution risk. All regulated brokerage, sales, and transaction execution are carried out exclusively by the relevant licensed entities in each jurisdiction. In addition, ALand is authorized to enter consultancy and cooperation agreements with real estate corporations, developers, and professional advisory firms across multiple countries, enabling the delivery of cross-border real estate consulting and intermediation services tailored to the needs of international investors and institutions.

• Share:
•