logo
Chelsea Football Club announces new global partnership with DAMAC Properties

Chelsea Football Club announces new global partnership with DAMAC Properties

Zawya30-04-2025
Partnership includes a collaboration in a first of its kind football- themed real estate project, Chelsea Residences by DAMAC
DAMAC will also feature on Chelsea FC's front of shirt to mark the launch of the new Residence
London/Dubai: Chelsea Football Club has today announced a new, long-term global partnership with Dubai-headquartered DAMAC Properties, which has been at the forefront of the Middle East's luxury real estate market.
In addition, an ultra-modern development, Chelsea Residences by DAMAC, is being designed and launched in partnership with Chelsea FC in Dubai, slated to be the first of its kind football-themed branded residences. The new development will be built with Chelsea Football Club's famous brand woven into the fabric, from its concierge service to its high-performance spaces. It will reflect the very best of Chelsea FC both in terms of high-end style, commitment to excellence and vision for the future.
To showcase this groundbreaking, global partnership and celebrate the launch of the first-ever Chelsea football club branded residences, DAMAC Properties will feature on Chelsea FC men's and women's shirts for the remainder of the 24/25 season, with its debut at the men's UEFA Conference league semi-final fixture against Djurgården this Thursday 1st May.
Amira Sajwani, Managing Director of Sales & Development of DAMAC Properties said: 'This launch marks the first of an elite collection that celebrates not just the passion of Chelsea FC but its enduring legacy, innovative spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence. This initiative goes beyond celebrating the beautiful game; it sets a new benchmark for those who expect nothing less than the exceptional, every time."
Jason Gannon, President and COO of Chelsea Football Club said:"DAMAC are world renowned in building luxury properties, and we are thrilled to be working with the industry leader to bring to market a first of its kind branded Chelsea FC residence in Dubai. With the club located in the heart of London, the collaboration will bring Chelsea to life in Dubai, supporting our continued growth on the global stage. We can't wait to see Chelsea Residences take its place in the Dubai skyline."
Located in Dubai's newest beachfront address, Maritime City, Chelsea Residences by DAMAC is a unique project that will consist of 1,400+ residential units. Each residence will have incredible seafront views along with access to the exclusive Chelsea-branded amenities that place health, fitness and wellbeing at the heart of its offering.
About DAMAC Properties
DAMAC Properties has been at the forefront of the Middle East's luxury real estate market since 2002, delivering award-winning residential, commercial and leisure properties across the region and internationally, including in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, the Maldives, Canada, the United States, as well as the United Kingdom.
Since then, the company has delivered more than 48,000 homes with over 50,000 more in diverse planning and development phases. Joining forces with some of the world's most eminent fashion and lifestyle brands to create tremendous living experiences, such as with Versace, Roberto Cavalli, or de GRISOGONO. With a consistent vision and momentum, DAMAC is building the next generation of luxury living across the globe.
About Chelsea Football Club
Chelsea Football Club is one of the top football clubs globally and its men's team were the FIFA Club World Cup winners for 2021, with the final when the side beat Brazilian side Palmeiras in Abu Dhabi held in 2022 due to the pandemic. That success followed winning the UEFA Champions League for a second time in 2021 with victory over Manchester City in Porto.
Founded in 1905, Chelsea is London's most central football club, based at the iconic 40,000- capacity Stamford Bridge stadium. Nicknamed 'The Blues', the club lifted the Champions League for the first time in 2012 and has also won the Premier League five times, the FA Cup eight times, the Football League Cup five times, the UEFA Europa League twice, the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup twice, the UEFA Super Cup twice and the Football League Championship once, in 1955.
The 2021 Champions League and Super Cup triumphs ensured Chelsea became the first club to win four major UEFA club competitions twice, following its earlier successes in those two competitions as well as the Europa League and Cup Winners' Cup.
The Chelsea Women's team have enjoyed a huge amount of success and in 2024 won the FA Women's Super League for a fifth consecutive year and the seventh time overall. The Women's FA Cup has been won on five occasions. The side has also captured the FA Women's League Cup three times as well as reaching the UEFA Women's Champions League final in 2021.
In addition to possessing some of the world's most recognisable players, Chelsea has also invested in its future with a state-of-the-art Academy and training centre in Cobham, Surrey. Since the Academy building's opening in 2008, the club has won seven FA Youth Cups, back-to- back UEFA Youth League titles in 2015 and 2016, and the U23 and U18 Premier League national championships most recently in 2019/20 and 2017/18 respectively.
The Chelsea Foundation boasts one of the most extensive community initiatives in sport, helping to improve the lives of children and young people all over the world.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Dubai real estate: Property market sales surge 46% as market value hits $41.3bn in Q2 2025
Dubai real estate: Property market sales surge 46% as market value hits $41.3bn in Q2 2025

Arabian Business

time6 hours ago

  • Arabian Business

Dubai real estate: Property market sales surge 46% as market value hits $41.3bn in Q2 2025

Dubai 's property market recorded total sales value of AED151.8 billion in the second quarter of 2025, representing a 46 per cent increase year-on-year, a new report finds. Transaction volumes rose 25 per cent to reach 50,485 units during the same period, Betterhomes Shaping Skylines | Q2 2025 Dubai Residential Real Estate Market The figures build on growth from the first quarter, with quarter-on-quarter increases of 33 per cent in value and 19 per cent in volume. The performance reinforces Dubai's position as a key property hub in the region. Dubai real estate transactions rise 25% year-on-year with 50,485 units sold 'Dubai's real estate market maintained its momentum in Q2, with transactions up 25 per cent year-on-year and total value rising 46 per cent. Apartments and off-plan led activity, while the luxury segment hit record highs. Even during June's regional unrest, the market remained resilient; reinforcing Dubai's position as a safe, stable destination for capital and lifestyle buyers alike,' Louis Harding, Chief Executive Officer at Betterhomes said. Apartments accounted for 80 per cent of total transactions, contributing over 40,000 units sold and generating AED81 billion in sales value. The segment showed growth of 21 per cent year-on-year across both secondary and off-plan transactions. Off-plan apartment sales increased 30 per cent quarter-on-quarter, with secondary apartments rising 23 per cent in value to reach AED21.17 billion. Off-plan transactions totalled AED60.15 billion, representing 37 per cent growth compared to Q2 2024. Jumeirah Village Circle emerged as the top performer for off-plan apartments, accounting for 12.2 per cent of total off-plan transactions. Business Bay followed with 6.4 per cent, while Dubai Residence Complex contributed 5.3 per cent. Two-bedroom apartments represented the highest contribution to off-plan transaction value at 33 per cent, with one-bedroom apartments at 30 per cent and studios at 10 per cent. The average price per square foot for off-plan transactions stood at AED2,023. In the secondary apartment market, JVC led with 11.2 per cent of transactions, followed by Business Bay at 7.5 per cent and Dubai Marina at 5.8 per cent. Two-bedroom apartments again dominated value contribution at 36 per cent, with the average price per square foot at AED1,600. Dubai villa sales jump 80% as secondary market outperforms off-plan developments Secondary villa and townhouse sales recorded 80 per cent year-on-year growth, reaching AED62.4 billion. Quarter-on-quarter growth reached 49 per cent compared to Q1 2025. Off-plan villa and townhouse sales declined 2 per cent year-on-year to AED8.06 billion and fell 32 per cent quarter-on-quarter from AED11.8 billion in Q1 2025. 'With approximately 20,000 new units delivered in the first half of 2025 and a further 70,000 expected by year-end, Q3 is shaping up to be an exciting phase for Dubai's property market. This upcoming supply is well-aligned with the city's growing population and strong investor appetite. Demand remains robust particularly for apartments and ready villas with healthy absorption of new launches. Both Q3 and the second half of 2025 are expected to reflect positive market sentiment, supported by a resilient economy, sustained end-user demand, and attractive rental yields,' Christopher Cina, Director of Sales at Betterhomes added. The Valley accounted for 29.7 per cent of off-plan villa and townhouse transactions, followed by EMAAR South with 15.5 per cent and Athlon by Aldar at 8 per cent. Townhouses drove 75 per cent of off-plan value in this segment. For secondary sales, Damac Islands led with 30 per cent of transactions, followed by Grand Polo Club and Resort at 9.4 per cent. Villas accounted for 77 per cent of secondary transaction value, while townhouses contributed 23 per cent. The citywide average price reached AED1,582 per square foot, representing a 6 per cent increase compared to the second half of 2024 and an 18 per cent rise from Q1 2024. Prices now stand 90 per cent above pandemic-era lows of AED833. Off-plan apartment prices reached AED2,023 per square foot, marking a 12.5 per cent increase since early 2023. Secondary apartment prices climbed 23 per cent over the same period to AED1,599 per square foot. Secondary villa and townhouse prices reached AED1,557 per square foot, reflecting 9 per cent quarterly growth and 6 per cent annual growth. Off-plan prices in this segment reached AED1,368 per square foot, with 4 per cent quarterly and 19 per cent annual growth. Approximately 20,000 units were delivered in the first half of 2025, with 70,000 additional units expected in the second half. The delivery pipeline extending to 2027 includes over 200,000 units. Jumeirah Village Circle led community handovers in H1 2025, accounting for 20 per cent of completions with over 4,130 units. Sobha Hartland followed with 2,200 units (11 per cent), while Mohammed Bin Rashid City ranked third with 1,600 units (8 per cent). Over 1,300 villas and approximately 3,000 townhouses were delivered in H1 2025. An additional 3,800 villas and 9,000 townhouses are expected in the second half of 2025. 'At the top end, the prime market remains extremely active. AED 15m+ transactions more than doubled compared to last year, as global buyers continue to view Dubai as a long-term investment and not a short-term play, for a variety of domestic and international reasons,' Harding added. The launch of PRIME by Betterhomes addresses the ultra-premium segment, focusing on luxury residences that offer exclusive properties. Total rental contracts reached 107,830 in Q2 2025, reflecting a 2 per cent year-on-year increase. New rental contracts declined 2 per cent annually and 13 per cent quarterly, while renewed contracts increased 4 per cent year-on-year. 'Leasing activity at Betterhomes grew by 33 per cent quarter-on-quarter, highlighting the sustained demand across Dubai's rental market. Villa and townhouse demand rose significantly by 30 per cent and 98 per cent respectively reflecting a growing preference for spacious, family-oriented living. As we move into Q3 2025, we expect this momentum to continue, particularly in established and emerging suburban communities. With tenant enquiries holding strong and rental prices remaining stable, the leasing market is well-positioned to see healthy absorption of new stock, supported by a maturing tenant base and lifestyle-driven relocations,' Rupert Simmonds, Director of Leasing at Betterhomes explained. Betterhomes recorded 111 per cent year-on-year growth in total leasing transactions, with apartments up 104 per cent, villas up 97 per cent, and townhouses rising 237 per cent. The UAE's GDP growth reached 3.8 per cent in 2024, with forecasts projecting increases to 4.2 per cent in 2025 and 5 per cent in 2026. UK buyers top Dubai property investments as international demand grows 56% Dubai's population has grown from 3.8 million to 4.1 million residents, now housing one-third of the UAE's population. Dubai's tourism sector demonstrated growth of 7 per cent year-on-year until April 2025, with hotel occupancy levels reaching 84 per cent in the first four months. Western Europe remains the largest source market, contributing 23 per cent of total arrivals. At Betterhomes, investors accounted for 58 per cent of all transactions in Q2, up from 50 per cent in Q1. Cash transactions rose to 52 per cent in Q2 2025, up from 42 per cent in Q1. The United Kingdom claimed the top position among buyer nationalities at Betterhomes, with UK buyer activity growing 56 per cent quarter-on-quarter. India and Pakistan maintained second and third positions respectively. 'As we move into Q3, the fundamentals remain strong. Population growth is steady, infrastructure continues to expand, and while more supply is coming online, demand is still outpacing it in most areas. We expect to see more negotiation, more realistic pricing, and a little more competition, which, frankly, is no bad thing,' Harding concluded.

UAE: Office perfect for Instagram? Design spaces to aid work, not looks, say employees
UAE: Office perfect for Instagram? Design spaces to aid work, not looks, say employees

Khaleej Times

time9 hours ago

  • Khaleej Times

UAE: Office perfect for Instagram? Design spaces to aid work, not looks, say employees

UAE offices need to shift focus from being visually striking to being truly human-centered; that's the recurring message from HR professionals and workplace designers. This takeaway from Gensler's newly released 2025 Global Workplace Survey has prompted HR leaders and workplace experts to call for a shift: from picture-perfect setups to purpose-driven, human-centred design. The global architecture and design firm surveyed over 16,800 full-time office workers across 15 countries, including a deep sample from the UAE, to better understand what modern employees truly need from their workplaces. While UAE office workers acknowledge that their workplaces have improved since the pandemic, most believe their needs are still not met. Only 31 per cent of UAE employees strongly agree that their current work environment enables them to perform at their best, despite widespread office renovations and investments in workplace upgrades. Common challenges persist: noise, inefficient layouts, lack of meeting room availability, and insufficient quiet zones for focused work. Key employee priorities include better acoustics in shared spaces, access to informal collaboration zones, and dedicated areas for focused, undisturbed work. Need and design 'The UAE has become a global benchmark for ambition and adaptability. In cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, we are witnessing rapid shifts in how people live and work, and the workplace must evolve accordingly,' said Edith Eddy, Senior Interior Designer, Workplace, at Gensler Middle East. 'Our research reveals a clear gap between what employees need to thrive — flexibility, creativity, and connection — and what their current spaces provide. Bridging this gap will be essential for organisations aiming to attract talent, foster innovation, and design workplaces that truly support the future of work in the Emirates." The UAE currently ranks in the 'middle tier' globally when it comes to workplace satisfaction — performing better than France and Japan, but falling behind countries like the UK, India, and the United States." Key drivers Nicki Wilson, executive director of Genie Recruitment, highlighted how cultural and structural flexibility has transformed engagement in her firm. 'Now we finish early every Friday and the whole team works from home that day. We introduced a 'work from anywhere' policy where each team member can work remotely for a full week once a year with an extra allowance to support working from another country. This encourages travel, creativity and fresh perspective.' She added, 'Flexibility has increased accountability and engagement. There's a stronger sense of mutual trust. People feel empowered to own their time which means they show up more present and productive.' According to Wilson, UAE offices in 2025 need to prioritise 'human-centred' elements over aesthetics.' Design wise, UAE offices in 2025 need to focus less on just looking 'Instagrammable' and more on being human-centred. "That means quiet zones for focus, collaborative breakout areas, adjustable lighting, greenery and open air wherever possible. Movement-friendly layouts and high-quality ergonomic furniture are no longer optional, they're expected.' She also emphasised the need for a cultural shift. 'Culturally, the shift has to be toward outcome-based leadership. The 'bums on seats' mentality is outdated. Employees want autonomy, trust and purpose. That means leaders need to move from managing time to managing results and supporting mental wellbeing as a core business priority — not just a side perk.' Importantly, employee feedback loops need to be constant. A one-off survey doesn't cut it. Whether you run a 10-person business or a 1,000-person company, ask regularly: 'What would help you thrive here?' Then act on it.' Creative labs The survey also highlighted a mismatch between what employees experience and what they ideally want. Only 15 per cent described their ideal workplace as a formal 'business hub,' while 29 per cent said that label reflected their current office setup. In contrast, there's a growing appetite for 'creative labs' and 'nature retreats' — environments that promote creativity, calm, and purpose over rigid formality. Employees are asking for more than flashy amenities. Aws Ismail, a UAE-based professional, summed up what many feel is missing from modern offices. 'Honestly, I believe a lot of offices still feel quite disconnected from what employees need to thrive. Post-pandemic upgrades might look good on the surface, but many spaces don't encourage true collaboration, creativity, or even healthy competition. I think what's missing is an environment where people can learn from each other, be challenged, and feel part of something.' He added, "It's not just about comfortable chairs or a pool table, it's about the energy in the office, the leadership presence, and creating a culture that pushes people to perform at their best."

UAE Property: ‘What deductions can my landlord make from the security deposit?'
UAE Property: ‘What deductions can my landlord make from the security deposit?'

The National

time11 hours ago

  • The National

UAE Property: ‘What deductions can my landlord make from the security deposit?'

Question: What is the precise timeline for my landlord to refund my security deposit after I hand over the keys at the end of a tenancy and what exactly qualifies as 'reasonable deductions'? MB, Dubai Answer: Under Article 20 of Dubai Law 26/2007 (as amended by Law 33/2008), landlords must refund the security deposit 'upon expiry of the rent contract '. In reality, most landlords aim to return the balance within 30 calendar days of receiving the tenant's vacate notice and cancelled Ejari certificate, though some may take longer if there are unresolved utility bills or major repairs to assess. To balance this argument, I can also confirm that if all is OK, some landlords take much less time to return the deposit. The business relationship they had with the tenant would determine this timeframe, too. My advice to ensure a smooth refund would be to organise a joint handover inspection by having a walk-through with your landlord or their agent on the day you return the keys. During this meeting, you should document the condition of the walls, fixtures, fittings, flooring and appliances with time-stamped photos or video. Before receiving your deposit, secure the Ejari cancellation certificate. Without this, landlords can withhold refunds. One of the most abused circumstances from both sides is understanding reasonable deductions. What is allowed are repairs for damage beyond normal wear and tear (e.g., holes in walls, broken tiles, damaged cabinetry in kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms or utility room), unpaid Dubai Electricity and Water Authority bills, A/C or municipality charges and any cleaning/repainting costs expressly outlined in your tenancy agreement. They are not allowed to charge for touch-up paint jobs, minor scuffs or fading finishes and cosmetic wear from normal occupancy. However, the term 'normal wear and tear' is always open to interpretation, so I would advise to never have this in a contract, rather stipulate what a tenant needs to do at the end of the agreement to get the deposit back. If deductions from a landlord seem excessive or undocumented, you may file a complaint with the Dubai Rental Dispute Settlement Centre within 30 days of vacating. The RDSC typically processes these cases in two to four weeks, mediating between tenant and landlord to arrive at a fair amount. By proactively documenting the property's condition and knowing your rights around Ejari and the Real Estate Regulatory Agency, you can minimise delays and avoid unfair write-offs. Q: Late last year, we purchased an off-plan two-bedroom apartment in One by Binghatti through a marketing agent. It's on level 46 looking towards the Burj Khalifa and has 1,572 square feet, including the extra-large balconies. There will also be a plunge pool on the balcony. We intended to keep the unit post-handover in December 2026 and rent it out, but our plans have changed. In a few days, we will have paid the 40 per cent that will allow us to sell the property, as per the developer's contract. What would be a fair sale price for the property today? The agent we purchased through advised that the best gains will be realised at handover, but paying 60 per cent of the purchase price before handover is too much of a stretch. Should we consider travelling to Dubai to obtain our golden visa and refinance with a local bank loan? We understand that in Dubai, the buyer pays the agent's commission, but our agent is proposing to charge 2 per cent to both the buyer and the seller (us). His explanation is that he would devote enough time to getting the best result. Should we accept his proposal or shop around? Jo, Sydney Watch: What is Dubai's first-time home ownership scheme? A: I checked online and there appears to be several available units at One by Binghatti starting at just over Dh3.5 million ($953,029), with others at Dh3.6 million, Dh3.8 million, a few at Dh4.5 million and even one at Dh4.8 million. Given the difference in price, I can only assume the view is making a difference. Based on these, I think the right price should be in the region between Dh3.6 million to Dh3.7 million. When the developer still has inventory, it makes it harder to sell an off-plan secondary property because buyers tend to prefer buying as the first sale, so this can be challenging. If you can hold the unit, you will see the most appreciation at the point of handover, so in terms of financing the remaining 60 per cent, this is possible even as a non-resident and you get to apply for the golden visa. Lastly, it isn't illegal for an agent to charge both the buyer and the seller, the norm being 2 per cent from each, as long as all parties are aware and have agreed to it. The agent will be more invested if the fee is 4 per cent rather than 2 per cent and would mean they can also work with other agents and still get the minimum commission of 2 per cent.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store