Dubai-based real estate developer Arada has acquired an 80 percent stake in Thameside West, a significant waterfront mixed-use development located at the western end of London’s Royal Docks. This investment marks Arada’s second major UK acquisition this year, following its September purchase of a 75 percent stake in London property developer Regal.
Thameside West is masterplanned by the renowned architectural firm Foster + Partners and covers a sprawling 47-acre site featuring central London’s longest stretch of undeveloped riverfront. The development is poised to become a major new neighbourhood, with plans for at least 5,000 homes. Of the site’s total area, half will be dedicated to green spaces, and the project will include a kilometre of active waterfront, enhancing its appeal and sustainability credentials.
The project represents one of Europe’s largest regeneration opportunities and commands a gross development value of AED 12 billion (approximately $3.3 billion). Its prime location affords unique views across Canary Wharf and the Greenwich Peninsula. The first phase of the project aims to deliver 1,000 homes, with construction scheduled to commence in 2027.
Arada stated it will collaborate closely with several key stakeholders including the London Borough of Newham, Greater London Authority, Transport for London, and GLA Land and Property Limited to transform the former industrial site into a vibrant residential and commercial hub.
This acquisition brings Arada’s London residential development pipeline to 15,000 homes. The company has ambitious growth plans, having previously expressed its intent to scale its London pipeline to 30,000 units within three years. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Arada’s chairman, highlighted the rapid expansion of their development pipeline in London since acquiring Regal.
Of the 5,000 homes planned, 35 percent will be allocated as affordable housing, a commitment underscored by Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor of London for Housing and Residential Development. This will support the creation of a balanced, inclusive community in the heart of East London.
Since its founding in 2017, Arada has delivered ten projects across the UAE, including the mixed-use mega project Aljada in Sharjah and the luxury Armani Beach Residences at Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. Alongside its UK developments, Arada maintains a strong pipeline in Australia, with nine projects totaling 5,000 units in New South Wales.
The Thameside West acquisition aligns with Arada’s broader strategy to expand its international footprint with a focus on large-scale, mixed-use developments that blend residential, recreational, and commercial elements.
Key Highlights:
- Acquisition: 80% stake in Thameside West from Keystone, a private developer.
- Location: Western end of London’s Royal Docks on a 47-acre site.
- Project Value: AED 12 billion ($3.3 billion).
- Housing: 5,000 homes planned, with 35% affordable.
- First phase: 1,000 homes, construction from 2027.
- Partnerships: London Borough of Newham, Greater London Authority, Transport for London, and GLA Land and Property Limited.
- Arada’s London pipeline: 15,000 homes, aiming to scale to 30,000.
- UAE portfolio: 10 projects since 2017 including Aljada and Armani Beach Residences.
- Australian pipeline: 9 projects totaling 5,000 units in New South Wales.
This acquisition confirms Arada’s growing confidence and strategic push into the UK market, focusing on notable regeneration projects with strong community and sustainability components. The Thameside West development stands as a testimony to the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality, large-scale urban living solutions in key global cities.
Image Credit – Arada | GBN
