Naia Island: The ultra-luxury Dubai paradise Lakshmi Mittal is moving to

What if your next travel fascination wasn’t just a destination—but a private island where the world’s richest are relocating to escape taxes, own beachfront mansions, dock their superyachts, and live in unmatched privacy?

Welcome to Naia Island, Dubai—the ultra-exclusive, man-made island that has suddenly captured global attention after steel billionaire Lakshmi Mittal, one of the UK’s wealthiest industrialists, reportedly decided to shift his base there. His move marks a seismic moment in the world of wealth migration, especially as the UK prepares to impose stricter wealth and inheritance taxes, including a 20% exit tax, a potential mansion tax, and the end of the non-domicile tax regime.

With financial pressure mounting in traditional billionaire hubs like London, wealthy individuals are seeking safer, more rewarding destinations to protect their global assets. And for the ultra-rich, Dubai—and particularly Naia Island—is emerging as the ultimate luxury refuge.

Imagine a place where every residence has its own private beach, where you can step out of your villa straight onto the sand, where your yacht waits in a private marina, and where world-class hospitality is provided by luxury powerhouse LVMH’s Cheval Blanc Maison. No paparazzi, no crowds, no noise—just serene blue waters, curated nature, and a level of service designed for those accustomed to private jets and multi-million-dollar properties.

Naia Island isn’t just another flashy Dubai development. It represents the next evolution of elite living—combining tax advantages, security, privacy, and lifestyle in a way few destinations on Earth can match.

So, what exactly is Naia Island? Who is moving there? And why is it suddenly being called the “new billionaire playground” and the most exclusive coastal address in the Middle East?

Let’s dive into the world’s newest billionaire hideaway—and discover why the global elite are racing to claim a piece of it.

What is Naia Island?

Naia Island is an upcoming ultra-exclusive private island development off Dubai’s Jumeirah coastline, designed specifically for the world’s ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs). Developed by Shamal Holding—the investment group behind several of Dubai’s most luxurious real estate projects—this island is set to redefine elite coastal living.

Positioned as a hyper-luxury retreat, Naia Island offers unparalleled privacy, elite security, direct beachfront living, and access to exclusive branded residences. Residents can expect world-class hospitality paired with a level of seclusion rarely found in Dubai’s buzzing landscape.

Unlike the city’s iconic high-rise skyline, Naia Island embraces a low-rise, nature-focused aesthetic. Contemporary architecture blends seamlessly with open coastal landscapes, creating a serene, resort-style environment that feels worlds away from urban life while still being moments from Dubai’s most prestigious shoreline.

Image: X/ @DXBMediaOffice

Why Billionaires Like Lakshmi Mittal Want to Relocate Here

Lakshmi Mittal—one of the world’s wealthiest steel magnates and a long-time UK resident—is reportedly shifting his residence and business base to Naia Island. The move comes as the UK plans to introduce:

• a 20% exit tax,
• a possible mansion tax,
• abolition of the non-domicile tax regime,
• continued 40% inheritance tax.

For billionaires with global assets, these changes mean massive financial impact.

In contrast, the UAE offers:

• zero inheritance tax,
• clear global asset regulations,
• attractive residency benefits,
• transparent tax systems,
• luxury lifestyle and security.

It’s no surprise global billionaires are following the trend—and Naia Island is emerging as the crown jewel.

Where Exactly Is Naia Island Located?

Naia Island sits just off Dubai’s chic beachfront district, nestled between Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah 3—one of the city’s most prestigious and sought-after coastal stretches. Despite feeling like a secluded sanctuary, the island enjoys seamless connectivity to major Dubai roadways, luxury shopping districts, marina and yachting zones, and areas offering stunning views of the city’s iconic skyline.

Its strategic position delivers the best of both worlds: the tranquillity and exclusivity of a private island, paired with the convenience of being only minutes away from Dubai’s most glamorous urban experiences. This balance of seclusion and accessibility is exactly what ultra-high-net-worth residents value most, making Naia Island a rare and coveted address.

What Makes Naia Island So Exclusive?

Naia Island isn’t just another luxury development—it is purpose-built for absolute privacy and hyper-personalised living. Designed for the world’s richest residents, the island combines secluded coastal beauty with elite services that are rarely found together in one destination.

Private Beachfront for Every Residence: One of Naia Island’s biggest draws is that every villa and branded residence comes with its own private stretch of beach. In Dubai, where waterfront property is already highly coveted, having a personal shoreline attached to your home elevates the living experience to a level even luxury homeowners seldom enjoy.

Discreet Access Through a Private Marina: The island also features a dedicated private marina, allowing residents to arrive and depart via yacht or private boat without ever passing through public areas. For high-profile business leaders, celebrities, and royalty who prioritise anonymity and security, this discreet access is a major advantage.

Low-Rise Architecture and Open Coastal Design: Unlike Dubai’s famed skyline filled with soaring skyscrapers, Naia Island embraces a low-rise, nature-forward design. The architecture prioritises open green spaces, unobstructed sea views, and a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. This resort-style environment offers a rare blend of luxury and natural tranquillity within close reach of the city.

Cheval Blanc Maison: The Island’s Crown Jewel

At the heart of Naia Island will be the region’s first Cheval Blanc Maison, owned by luxury giant LVMH. Known globally for emotional, personalised hospitality, Cheval Blanc’s presence instantly elevates the island’s prestige.

The Maison will offer:

• exclusive suites and private villas,
• world-class wellness and spa experiences,
• fine dining led by top culinary talent,
• elite concierge and lifestyle services.

With its reputation for tailored luxury, Cheval Blanc positions the island among the world’s most elite residential destinations.

Designed as a Legacy Investment

Naia Island isn’t just being sold as real estate—it is marketed as a lifestyle statement and a long-term legacy investment. Limited availability of estate plots and branded residences ensures that ownership will remain highly exclusive, increasing desirability and long-term value for buyers.

Why Billionaires Are Choosing Naia Island

As Western countries tighten tax and wealth regulations, billionaires are increasingly relocating to destinations that offer:

• financial freedom,
• favourable tax structures,
• high security,
• global connectivity,
• luxury living.

Dubai checks every box, and Naia Island represents the pinnacle of this shift. Its combination of tax benefits, privacy, and ultra-luxury amenities is already attracting high-net-worth individuals like Lakshmi Mittal, signalling a growing trend among the global elite.

Is Naia Island a Travel Destination?

Despite its stunning setting, Naia Island will not function like a regular tourist destination. It will become one of the region’s most prestigious coastal addresses, reserved primarily for residents and invited guests.

However, luxury travellers may eventually access select experiences through Cheval Blanc’s dining and wellness offerings—most likely by invitation or exclusive booking only. This controlled access ensures that Naia Island maintains its aura of exclusivity, privacy, and elite living.