The Luxe Developers is a relatively new player in the UAE’s real estate sector, it launched in 2022 with the goal of delivering ‘distinctiveness with every project that it undertakes’. The developer says it aims to specialise in crafting extraordinary ultra-luxury residential buildings, and believes that exceptional living spaces can inspire and transform lives.
Following its launch in the UAE, the developer unveiled its flagship project ‘Oceano’ on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah in late 2022, and promised that development would be synonymous with providing the “very best” in craftsmanship, and will take understated luxury to a “new level”.
Once complete, the project will have 206 units over 18 storeys split across 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-bedroom apartments, 6-penthouses and 2-sky villas. Since the project was announced, the developer identified reputed players to deliver its project, and progress has moved forward steadily.
Earlier this year, Shubam Aggarwal, Chairman and Co-owner, and Siddharta Banerji, Managing Director and Co-owner of The Luxe Developers took Big Project Middle East’s Jason Saundalkar on an exclusive site visit for a firsthand look at Oceano’s delivery.
Speaking about overall construction progress, Aggarwal says, “Oceano’s construction has been progressing rapidly, and we’ve made significant progress. Level 14 of Tower A and 13 of Tower B have been completed and we are advancing to the next floors. The connecting bridges between both towers, which have been constructed off-site, will be installed in August 2026. The substructure was completed in 2025, and the superstructure is now at 63% completion. Abu Dhabi-based MEP contractor I-Zone has completed more than 15% of the MEP works and 26% of the internal works.”
Highlighting milestones, he adds, “Several key construction milestones have already been achieved. Excavation and substructure works have been fully completed, internal finishing activities, including blockwork and plastering, are advancing steadily, with blockwork completed up to Level 9 and plastering progressing through Level 7. MEP first-fix and second-fix works are also underway up to Level 9, while façade installation has commenced with the mock-up unit on Level 2 of Tower A.”
Aggarwal says that the scale of construction delivered to date is substantial, with approximately 10,000t of steel reinforcement installed, 40,000cu/m of concrete poured, and 30,000sqm of blockwork completed.
“Looking ahead, the project remains on track to achieve its upcoming milestones. The installation of the signature structural bridges connecting the 2-towers is scheduled for August 2026, while the completion of the main structural works for both towers, including the installation of both bridges, is targeted for September 2026,” he confirms.
The right partners
Discussing how The Luxe Developers vetted and appointed partners for its first ultra-luxury project, Aggarwal highlights, “From the outset, our approach was to assemble a world-class team of partners capable of delivering a development that pushes the boundaries of luxury, design, and engineering. Every partner involved in the project was selected not only for their proven track record but also for their ability to contribute technical expertise, innovation, and exceptional quality to a development of this scale and complexity.”
“At the development stage, we worked alongside Aqua Properties, whose market expertise and understanding of the luxury real estate sector played an important role in shaping the project’s positioning and bringing the vision for Oceano to market.”
He continues, “For the design and architectural vision, we partnered with Dewan Architects + Engineers, one of the region’s most respected design consultancies. Dewan’s expertise was instrumental in translating our ambition into a distinctive architectural landmark that maximises panoramic sea views, while maintaining privacy, fluidity, and elegance throughout the development. Beyond the aesthetics, their engineering capabilities have been critical in delivering Oceano’s complex twin-tower design and the structural integration of the signature connecting bridges.”
“The project’s enabling works including piling, shoring, and excavation were undertaken by S.S. Lootah Foundations. Given Oceano’s prominent waterfront location on Al Marjan Island, it was essential to partner with a contractor possessing extensive geotechnical and foundation engineering expertise. Their experience ensured that the project’s substructure was delivered to the highest standards, providing the foundation for the development’s long-term performance and stability.”
“For the main construction works, we appointed China State Construction Engineering Corporation Middle East (CSCEC), one of the largest construction companies in the world. China State brings significant experience in delivering technically complex, large-scale developments across the UAE and internationally. Their engineering expertise, quality control processes, project management capabilities, and ability to execute ambitious designs efficiently have been fundamental to maintaining Oceano’s construction progress while ensuring the highest standards of workmanship,” he states.
For interiors, the firm selected Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA). “HBA’s experience in creating some of the most luxurious hotels, resorts, and branded residences globally has been instrumental in shaping Oceano’s ultra-luxury offering. Their hospitality-led design approach ensures that every residence delivers a refined living experience that combines functionality, comfort, and timeless elegance,” Aggarwal elaborates.
“From a building services perspective, we appointed I-Zone as the project’s MEP contractor due to its longstanding reputation and extensive experience delivering sophisticated mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems across the UAE. Supporting this, Infinity MEP+S Consultants serves as the project’s MEP consultant, overseeing engineering design, systems integration, and technical compliance. Together with Dewan’s specialist MEP engineers and our in-house technical team, they ensure that Oceano’s building systems meet the highest standards of performance, efficiency, reliability, and sustainability.”
Aggarwal points out that each project partner is united by a shared commitment to innovation, technical excellence, attention to detail, and quality.
“Each organisation brings specialist expertise that is essential to the successful delivery of Oceano, from complex engineering and construction capabilities to world-class design and luxury interior experiences. Collectively, our partners are actively helping us create a landmark development that will not only redefine waterfront living in Ras Al Khaimah but also deliver lasting value for residents, investors, and the wider real estate market,” he says.
Sharing insights on the project team and manpower onsite Banerji notes, “Oceano currently has approximately 1,200 labourers working onsite across various construction activities. In addition, around 130 personnel are involved in project management and supervision, comprising representatives from the consultant, main contractor, subcontractors, and specialist suppliers, all working collaboratively to ensure the project progresses in line with programme requirements.”
The project is also leveraging a wide range of construction equipment to ensure works progress smoothly. He outlines, “To support construction activities, a range of major equipment and machinery has been deployed onsite. This includes 3-tower cranes, 2-passenger hoists, and 2-concrete placing booms, which are supporting the ongoing structural works. Multiple mobile cranes are also utilised as required for lifting operations across different areas of the project.”
“Boom loaders and telehandlers support material handling and site logistics, while Bobcats and skid-steer loaders are used for site clearance and material movement. Block-cutting machines have been mobilised to support masonry and finishing works, and power floating machines are being utilised to achieve high-quality concrete surface finishes. Additional construction equipment and specialised machinery are also mobilised as required to support the various stages of the project and maintain construction progress.”
Prioritising safety
The Oceano project site was abuzz with activity during the site visit and, like many job sites, careful planning was needed to ensure the safety of people working onsite. Moreover, as the site is actively serviced by 3-tower cranes with some overlaps in operational zones, and is in a costal location that could face adverse weather conditions (such as heavy winds etc), added precautions were needed to ensure that each crane could operate safely when carrying loads or otherwise.
Discussing the approach to health, safety and environment (HSE), Banerji explains, “HSE remains a fundamental priority throughout the construction of Oceano. Working alongside our main contractor, CSCEC, we have implemented a robust HSE management framework that promotes a strong safety culture across every aspect of the project.”
“As a result of these efforts, the project has successfully achieved more than 2.7m safe man-hours without a Lost Time Injury (LTI), reflecting the effectiveness of the safety measures and procedures in place. This milestone has been achieved through strong leadership, proactive safety management, continuous workforce engagement, and strict adherence to safe working practices by all personnel on site.”
Banerji points out that the project leadership team led by Project Director Lu Ping, Senior Project Manager Loganathan, and HSE Manager Veeraragavan has been instrumental in driving CSCEC’s ‘Double Zero’ objective of Zero Accidents and Zero Injuries.
“Their commitment, together with the support of Chief Resident Engineer Arshad Hamad and the wider project team, has helped foster a culture in which safety is embedded at every stage of construction,” he notes.
“To maintain these standards, the project undertakes regular safety inspections, comprehensive risk assessments, toolbox talks, management safety walks, workforce training programmes, and continuous monitoring of high-risk activities. In addition to complying with CSCEC’s stringent internal HSE requirements, the project also fully adheres to all client, regulatory and stakeholder safety standards, including those mandated by Al Marjan.”
“The project’s safety performance has received international recognition. In 2025, CSCEC was recognised through the British Safety Council Awards, one of the industry’s most respected accolades for occupational health and safety excellence. This recognition reflects the team’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety performance throughout the construction process,” he confirms.
Banerji says that as construction progresses, the Oceano project team remains focused on maintaining the exceptional safety record, and delivering the development without any major accidents or incidents, while continuing to uphold the highest standards of health, safety and environmental management.
Asked about the impact the regional conflict had on the project in terms of how safety was handled and whether productivity was affected, Aggarwal responds, “During the period when regional tensions were at their highest and emergency alerts were being issued across the UAE, the safety and well-being of our workforce remained our absolute priority. While the situation required heightened vigilance, there was no significant disruption to construction activities, and the project continued to operate safely and in full compliance with all government guidance and regulatory requirements.”
“Throughout this period, the project management and HSE teams closely monitored official updates and maintained regular communication with all site personnel. Any relevant information was immediately shared with employees, subcontractors, and labour teams, while emergency preparedness procedures were reviewed and reinforced to ensure everyone remained informed and ready to respond if required.”
He continues, “A series of precautionary measures was implemented, including additional emergency preparedness drills, enhanced workforce briefings, and regular reviews of evacuation routes, designated shelter locations, and emergency communication protocols. The project also maintained dedicated Emergency Response Teams operating on both day and night shifts to ensure a rapid, coordinated response capability at all times.”
“Given the nature of the alerts, the project team also assessed potential site-specific risks and strengthened emergency response arrangements where necessary, including additional fire safety provisions and enhanced monitoring of site conditions. The HSE team conducted ongoing awareness sessions to address workforce questions, provide reassurance, and ensure all personnel understood the appropriate procedures in the event of an emergency.”
Banerji adds, “Ultimately, the combination of a robust HSE management system, strong leadership, comprehensive emergency planning, and the commitment of the entire workforce ensured the site remained safe, organised, and fully prepared throughout the period. As a result, all personnel remained safe, and project operations continued without incident.”
Discussing the site’s layout in terms of crane positioning and safety, Aggarwal reconfirms that safety is a top priority on Ocean. “The positioning of all 3-tower cranes was carefully planned during the initial mobilisation phase in line with the project’s logistics strategy. While the crane operating zones do overlap in certain areas, multiple safeguards are in place to ensure safe and controlled operations at all times.”
He explains, “Each tower crane is equipped with an advanced anti-collision system that links the boom slewing and trolley movements of all 3-cranes. The system continuously monitors each crane’s position and movement and automatically restricts operations when there is a risk of overlap or contact, effectively preventing crane-to-crane collisions.”
“Given Oceano’s coastal location, wind conditions are also closely monitored. All tower cranes are fitted with anemometers that provide continuous real-time wind speed readings. Should wind speeds exceed the permitted operating limit of 38km/h, all lifting activities are immediately suspended. The lifting supervisor works closely with crane operators and rigging teams to assess conditions and ensure that all lifting operations are conducted strictly within approved safety parameters.”
“Rigorous operational procedures complement these technological safeguards. All crane operators and riggers are EIAC-approved and fully qualified, while an EIAC-approved Lifting Supervisor oversees every lifting operation. In addition, all tower crane activities are planned and managed by a LEEA-approved Appointed Person, ensuring every lift is assessed and executed in accordance with industry best practice.”
“To maintain the highest safety standards, the project team also conducts weekly Plant Team Meetings, daily DART briefings, weekly health and safety inspections, pre-operation equipment checks, and monthly technical inspections. Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) remains a central focus of the project. It is the first item discussed during every weekly site progress meeting, reinforcing a strong safety culture across all construction activities,” he elaborates.
Building an ultra-luxury project
Shifting focus to the complexities involved in delivering an ultra-luxury seaside project on a man-made island, Banerji confirms there were several unique challenges to overcome. He notes however, that through careful planning, technical expertise, and close collaboration between The Luxe Developers, CSCEC, and the wider project team, these challenges have been successfully managed throughout the construction process.
“One of the key complexities has been coordinating the project’s highly sophisticated design requirements. Oceano incorporates a range of premium architectural, engineering, and interior design features, all of which require exceptional levels of integration and collaboration between architectural, structural, MEP, and specialist subcontractor teams. Maintaining the design intent while ensuring buildability, quality, and construction efficiency required continuous coordination and detailed technical planning throughout every stage of the project.”
He adds, “The island location has also created additional logistical considerations. As with any development on an island, the delivery of materials, equipment, and resources requires meticulous planning and scheduling to ensure construction proceeds without disruption. This has involved close coordination among contractors, suppliers, logistics providers, and the Al Marjan Island authorities to efficiently manage access, deliveries, and site operations while maintaining the project’s construction programme.”
“Being located in a coastal environment also demands a heightened focus on construction planning and project management. The project team has had to carefully consider factors such as site accessibility, material handling, and the sequencing of works to ensure that construction activities can be executed safely and efficiently within the constraints of a waterfront location.”
Banerji says that thanks to CSCEC’s extensive experience in delivering complex developments across the region, combined with the expertise of the wider consultant and contractor team, these challenges have been effectively addressed.
“This collaborative approach has enabled Oceano to maintain strong construction progress, while ensuring the exceptional quality, engineering standards, and architectural vision that define the development are preserved throughout the delivery process,” he emphasises.
Seaside projects also demand special consideration with regards to the materials selected and the systems used to ensure the project’s long-term appearance and durability is maintained.
Commenting on this aspect, Aggarwal explains, “For Oceano, long-term durability in a marine environment was a key design consideration from the outset. Working alongside leading consultants and contractors, we selected materials and building systems specifically engineered for coastal conditions, including high-performance concrete mixes, corrosion-resistant structural components, marine-grade metals, advanced façade systems, and protective coatings designed to withstand salt-laden air and humidity.”
“These measures, combined with rigorous engineering standards and quality control, help ensure the building remains resilient, minimises maintenance requirements, and preserves its structural integrity and appearance for decades to come.”
Asked whether the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and global disruption of supply chains impacted project costs, material- and machinery-availability, Banerji responds, “Despite disruptions to regional logistics and global supply chains, Oceano has not experienced a single day of construction stoppage. This is a testament to the strength of our procurement strategy, supply chain planning, and coordination with our partners and contractors. By securing critical materials early, diversifying sourcing channels, and maintaining close collaboration across all stakeholders, we have successfully managed cost pressures and ensured the project remains on schedule and aligned with its budget objectives.”
Asked about the most technically challenge aspect of the project to date, The Luxe Developers tells BPME that was related to obtaining approval and coordinating the construction of Oceano’s interconnecting link bridges.
“As a unique structural feature of the development, the bridges required extensive technical reviews and approvals from the relevant authorities, particularly Ras Al Khaimah Municipality. Successfully obtaining these approvals involved detailed engineering assessments, close collaboration between consultants and contractors, and multiple design submissions to ensure full compliance with all regulatory and safety requirements,” Aggarwal states.
“In parallel, the project team also navigated a complex approval process for key infrastructure elements, including electrical drawings and Civil Defence requirements. Securing these approvals required rigorous compliance verification and ongoing engagement with the relevant authorities, helping to ensure the project progressed in line with both technical and regulatory standards.”
He continues, “Another significant challenge has been coordinating the project’s highly detailed interior design vision with the structural and MEP requirements contained within the IFC drawings. Given the premium nature of the development, maintaining alignment between architectural intent and building services demanded extensive multidisciplinary collaboration. Regular coordination workshops, clash detection reviews, and continuous communication among the design, engineering, and construction teams have been essential to resolving conflicts and preserving the integrity of the final design.”
“The project’s location also presented logistical challenges. Limited site access and restricted manoeuvring space have required careful planning throughout the construction process, particularly regarding material deliveries, equipment movements, and the sequencing of works. These challenges have been addressed through detailed logistics planning, phased execution strategies, and close coordination between contractors, suppliers, and project stakeholders.”
Looking ahead, Aggarwal says one of the most technically demanding phases of the project will be installing the interconnecting structural bridges between the 2-towers. “As a defining architectural and engineering feature of Oceano, the successful installation of these bridges will require precise planning, specialist lifting operations, and seamless coordination between multiple disciplines to ensure the works are completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards,” he remarks.
Talking to Banerji about the biggest achievement from a construction standpoint, he highlights, “From a construction perspective, one of our proudest achievements has been successfully delivering the project’s complex structural and engineering works, while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and precision. Reaching these key construction milestones on such an architecturally ambitious beachfront development is a testament to the expertise, collaboration, and coordination of the entire project team. It also reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering a truly iconic landmark on Al Marjan Island and contributing to the evolution of Ras Al Khaimah’s luxury real estate landscape.”
Standing out by choice
On the site visit with Aggarwal and Banerji, it became obvious the developer had gone the extra mile with Oceano with regards to minute details that give the project its luxury aesthetic, refinement and finish, including (but not limited to) the use of rounded/curved features and surfaces, non-linear balconies and more. These decisions typically mean greater project complexity, extra costs and significant material expenditures and wastage.
Commenting on this, Banerji highlights, “The curved architectural forms and bespoke detailing that define Oceano were a deliberate design choice from the outset. Our vision was to create a sculptural waterfront landmark that reflects the sea’s natural movement and establishes a distinctive identity on Al Marjan Island, rather than delivering a conventional residential tower. Developed in collaboration with Dewan Architects + Engineers, the design embraces organic forms, flowing lines, uninterrupted sightlines, and a softer architectural language that complements its coastal surroundings.”
“While these design elements increase construction complexity and cost, we viewed them as a strategic investment in the project’s long-term value, character, and market appeal. Curved façades, non-linear balconies, and custom interior features require a significantly higher level of engineering coordination, precision formwork, specialist materials, and skilled craftsmanship than traditional straight-line construction. They also present additional challenges for material optimisation, sequencing, and waste management.”
He adds, “To address this, we worked closely with our partners from the earliest stages of the project to ensure the design could be executed efficiently without compromising the original vision. Advanced engineering coordination and BIM technology have played a critical role throughout the process, allowing us to accurately integrate structural, façade, and MEP elements, minimise inefficiencies, and reduce unnecessary material wastage wherever possible.”
“Ultimately, these architectural decisions have become one of Oceano’s defining strengths. Today’s luxury buyers are seeking distinctive, design-led assets rather than standardised products, and Oceano’s sculptural aesthetic, panoramic views, and exceptional attention to detail have helped position it as one of the most recognisable ultra-luxury residential developments in Ras Al Khaimah. While the approach required greater investment and technical expertise, we believe the result is a timeless landmark that will continue to differentiate itself for years to come,” he states.
Aggarwal takes the opportunity to point out that investors have been to the site on several occasions throughout the construction journey.
“The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many impressed by the level of craftsmanship, ultra-luxury finishes, and iconic architectural details. Seeing the quality and progress firsthand has strengthened investor confidence in the project and, in many cases, led existing investors to increase their commitment by acquiring additional units,” he points out.
Banerji also says that investors that have acquired homes at Oceano have held onto their property rather than sold them for profit. “One of the key reasons investors have retained their properties is their long-term confidence in both the project and Ras Al Khaimah’s broader growth trajectory. Buyers recognise that Oceano is not simply a residential development, but a landmark asset positioned within one of the UAE’s fastest-evolving luxury and tourism destinations.”
Talking about the profile of investors at Oceano, he adds, “A large proportion of them are ultra-high-net-worth individuals and end-users seeking exclusive lifestyle assets rather than speculative opportunities. Many purchasers were drawn to the project’s rarity, bespoke amenities, and limited inventory, particularly its unobstructed views and emphasis on exclusivity.”
Asked to make their closing statement and highlight their proudest achievements on Oceano as first-time developers, Aggarwal says, “For us, the proudest achievement has been proving that a first-time developer can enter one of the world’s most competitive luxury real estate markets and deliver a project that genuinely reshapes perceptions of what is possible in Ras Al Khaimah. The complete sell-out of Oceano, combined with the record-breaking sale of The Celest and The Stellar, validated our vision from day one.”
“However, beyond the commercial success, what makes me most proud is the calibre of partnerships we have built and the trust we have earned from investors, contractors, consultants, and stakeholders across the industry. We set out to create developments defined by architectural distinction, privacy, and craftsmanship, and seeing Oceano become recognised as a landmark project for Al Marjan Island has been incredibly rewarding.”
Banerji states, “I believe our proudest achievement has been establishing a clear identity and philosophy as developers from the very beginning. Rather than following conventional luxury trends, we focused on creating projects with emotional value and homes that combine design, wellness, privacy, and lifestyle into a truly elevated living experience.”
“Seeing Oceano evolve from a vision into a fully sold-out development under construction, while simultaneously launching La Mazzoni and receiving such a strong market response, has been a defining milestone for us. Most importantly, we have achieved this while maintaining uncompromising standards across design, materials, partnerships, and execution. For a first-time developer, earning that level of confidence from ultra-high-net-worth investors and the wider industry is something we are extremely proud of,” he concludes.
Hence then, the article about building the extraordinary was published today ( ) and is available on ME CONSTRUCTION NEWS ( United Arab Emirates ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( Building the Extraordinary )
Also on site :
- Tennessee Tech receives nearly $180,000 grant to strengthen state’s educator workforce through apprenticeships
- Al-Shaghadri urges deceived residents of Al-Dhale& 039; to seize general amnesty & stay out of enemy plots
- The Buddhist priests getting up to monky business: How scandals have repeatedly blighted Thai monks from temple sex tape and penis pump stash to drug smuggling and child porn