What Is The History Of Jebel Ali Village?

Historical Origin Of Jebel Ali Village

Let's explore Jebel Ali Village's past in greater detail, following its antecedents and historical development.

Although no such recorded proof has been discovered, many Arab historians say that it was named for Ali, Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law, who stood on a hill and looked out towards the sea as the Islamic Caliphate expanded. Arabic for "Jebel" is "mountain" or "hill." This indicates that the settlement may have existed before Dubai's modernization.

Due to the elevated ground, Overseas AST began building Dubai's first communications station in the Jebal Ali region in 1968. It was put into service in 1970 and provided the country with its first telecommunications links to the rest of the globe.

Jebel Ali Village was built in the 70s, and it's thought that the people related to its building lived there. Thus the village of Jebel Ali grew. Later, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum intended to transform Jebel Ali Village into an industrial district with a port, township, and airport.

But the village suffered hard times when Gulf Air Flight 771 crashed near Jebel Ali on September 23, 1983, killing all 112 passengers and crew.

In 1985 again the village started gaining momentum through government intervention when it was declared as a Free zone.

By 2008, work had started on the reconstruction of Jebel Ali village. This Village, which had a few abandoned villas that were supposed to be built in a different design, is going to see the construction of a large number of commercial and retail buildings, community facilities, and parks. The project was, however, shelved due to Dubai suffering greatly from the 2008–2009 global financial crisis. 
 
Later in 2013, a well-known developer in Dubai's real estate sector named Nakheel disclosed plans to build opulent villas in place of the lonely homes in Jebel Ali Village. More recently, in 2021, it was revealed that Nakheel Properties would renovate the hitherto remote Jebel Ali Village to make way for luxury homes.

Coastal Commercial And Fishing Centre

Due to its advantageous location along the Arabian Gulf coast, Jebel Ali served as a crucial commercial and fishing hub for the area. This coastal community drew traders, fishermen, and merchants as early as the 7th century. The location was perfect for marine activity because the natural harbour offered protection for commercial and fishing ships.

The Golden Era Of Pearl Diving

For the people of Jebel Ali Village and the surrounding area, pearl diving served as their main source of income during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The people were known for their extraordinary diving prowess and the highly lucrative pearl trade. During this time, the pearling business was a major contributor to Dubai's economy, and Jebel Ali was a key player in this sector. Global demand for pearls caused the village to gain notoriety for its premium pearls.

Economic Changes And Challenges

The early 20th-century advent of cultivated pearls presented difficulties for the pearling industry. The price of natural pearls dropped as a result of this invention, which in turn significantly impacted the livelihood of pearl divers. The region's economy underwent a significant upheaval after oil was discovered in the UAE in the middle of the 20th century, diverting attention from earlier industries like pearling.

Modernization And Transition

As the pearling industry shrank, many people in Jebel Ali Village switched to other forms of employment, like farming and fishing. However, the creation of the Jebel Ali Free Zone and the nearby deep-water port in the 1970s drastically altered the village's appearance. This event signalled a turning point in the history of the village.

Jebel Ali Free Zone

The Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), an industrial region enclosing the port, was established in 1985. The free zone's unique benefits are enjoyed by international businesses who relocate there. These include no personal income tax, a 50-year corporation tax exemption, no currency restrictions, unfettered access to labour from licenced employers, and no import or export duties.

Jebel Ali Industrial Area

One of Dubai's oldest industrial neighbourhoods is Jebel Ali Industrial Area which is also known as Jebel Ali Industrial is situated north of the Jebel Ali Free Zone Extension, south of Jebel Ali Village, west of Dubai Investments Park, and east of the Port of Jebel Ali. 

Jebel Ali Village Now

Jebel Ali Village is an integral part of Dubai today, despite the neighborhood's quick development. It is evidence of the Emiratis' adaptability and tenacity in the face of shifting economic conditions. The hamlet has changed to meet the demands of a rising workforce, but it has continued to protect its cultural history, with old mosques and watchtowers serving as memories of its illustrious past.

Location

Dubai Exhibition Centre is a short distance away from this location. Additionally, 29 stations from Rashidiya Metro Station to Jebel Ali Metro Station are connected to the neighboring Jebel Ali Metro Station (The M1 Metro). Around the corner from Jebel Ali Village, there are numerous bus stops that connect travelers to locations across Dubai.

Travel time from significant landmarks of Dubai 

●    40 minutes from Dubai International Airport
●    Dubai Downtown - 35 Minutes
●    Parks & Resort in Dubai - 10 minutes

Initiatives At Diversification

Dubai has made substantial efforts to diversify its economy beyond well-established industries like oil and gas, notably the Jebel Ali region. The government has undertaken investments in the tourism, real estate, technology, and other industries to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote economic resilience.

After-Effects Of The Pandemic

The COVID-19 epidemic had an impact on the Jebel Ali area, as it did on many other locations throughout the world. Various firms were impacted by travel restrictions, supply chain problems, and decreased international trade. Dubai, however, took action to lessen the effects on the economy and has been developing recovery plans.

Tourism And Hospitality

The Jebel Ali region is home to a number of five-star resorts and hotels that welcome both leisure and business guests. The local economy has historically benefited greatly from the tourism and hospitality industries, and initiatives have been taken to further boost these industries.

Projects At Jebel Ali Village

Now let us look at the different communities developed in Jebel Ali Village. A newly developed, luxury residential development on a site with a strong historical connection. Jebel Ali Village offers an opulent living experience amid rolling hills and lush greenery. All facets of your lifestyle have been taken into account while designing Jebel Ali Village, which features roomy residences, open floor plans, undulating green landscapes, sports facilities, and a wide range of amenities. 

Jebel Ali Village Phase 3

Jebel Ali Village is a gated community that smoothly combines the virtues of a lovely past with contemporary. This development's cutting-edge structural layout points to a promising new future.  

Jebel Ali Village Phase 3 living, which is situated off Sheikh Zayed Road adjacent to Ibn Battuta Mall, is just a short drive from Dubai International Airport. From here, you'll have quick access to important Dubai locations and be close to everything you need for daily life, including shopping malls, retail establishments, entertainment venues, houses of worship, and more.

In this area, there are townhouses, villas, and apartments with open floor plans and luxurious furnishings that can give lavish settings. Townhouses become more desirable places to reside with terraces, guest suites, powder rooms, driver's rooms, electric car charging, garages with electronic doors, laundry rooms, maid's rooms, penthouse floors, large back gardens, and storage rooms.

●    Plot Sizes (Sq. Ft.) 4,610 - 4,836 
●    Configuration 3 & 4 BR Townhouses 
●    Price  2.6 M AED

Investment Advantages In Jebel Ali Village

The completion of Jebel Ali Village is due in Q4 2025, and since it was first announced, end-users and real estate investors have enthusiastically invested in it. Within no time the first two phases of the development were completely sold out, illustrating the persistent demand for homes in the refurbished neighbourhood.

Jebel Ali Village is a freehold property. This opportunity gives the residents as well as investors from all across the globe to invest here with a profitable outcome.

Being home to the largest port nearby Jebel Ali is the ninth-busiest port on the entire planet. People working in and around Jebel Ali, prefer to stay close to their workplace. Hence the townhouses and apartments in this area are sold out as hotcakes. They are also taken on rent by many families for convenience.

This has turned Jebel Ali home to nearly  7,000 businesses from diverse sectors. Furthermore, this development receives a direct contribution from Dubai of 23% of its GDP.

Activities And Attractions In Jebel Ali Village

Jebel Ali is a bustling neighborhood in Dubai renowned for its commercial and industrial importance as well as for being close to the breathtaking Jebel Ali Beach. There are still a number of enjoyable things in Jebel Ali even though it may not be as well-known to tourists as some other parts of Dubai. Here are some activities and destinations to consider:

Golf: 

The magnificent golf courses The 9-hole, par-36 Jebel Ali Golf Resort  & Spa are well-known. Golfers can play a round in a beautiful setting with peaceful surroundings.

Visit Jebel Ali Bay: 

The Arabian Gulf's Jebel Ali Beach is a stunning section of coastline. It's a terrific location for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxation. For those seeking a little action, the beach also has water sports activities including jet skiing and parasailing.

Waterfront Dining

Enjoy beachfront eating at any of the numerous eateries and cafes that line Jebel Ali's coastline. Enjoy international cuisine and fresh seafood while admiring the breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf.

Free Zone

If you want to understand more about the economic and industrial sides of Jebel Ali, take a tour of the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA). This tour includes details on the industries that have supported the growth of the region, including trade, manufacturing, and logistics.

Dubai Parks and Resorts: 

This enormous entertainment complex, which is close, houses a number of theme parks, including LEGOLAND Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and Motiongate Dubai. It's a great vacation spot for both families and adventurers.

Safari Park

Animals from all over the world can be found in Dubai Safari Park, a sizable wildlife park. Safari tours, animal interactions, and educational exhibits are available to visitors.

Hot Air Balloon Ride:

For an exceptional and breathtaking experience, ride in a hot air balloon above Jebel Ali's desert scenery. From the air, you can see the splendour of the Dubai desert.

Luxury Resorts

The JA Beach Hotel and JA Palm Tree Court are just two of the opulent resorts in Jebel Ali where you may unwind. For a luxurious trip, these resorts provide top-notch amenities, spa services, dining, and water activities.

Boating and Cruises:
 
Take a boat tour or a relaxing cruise to discover Jebel Ali's waterways. The breathtaking view of the coastal shorelines gives you ultimate relaxation.

Shopping: 

Ibn Battuta Mall is the famous shopping center in Jebel Ali with a variety of retail stores, and dining places.

Discover the Outlet Village, which features more than 500 brands of shops from other countries, including Italian shops, French fashion, and American brands, and buy items there at a fair price. The Outlet Village is best designed with a Tuscan theme.

Recreation 

Jebel Ali Village has a large recreation centre where you can play live games, see films at Reel Cinemas, work out, attend festivals and events and then sample diverse cuisines at one of the numerous nearby restaurants, including Ship's Wheel, Asian Kitchen and C House Milano.

Takeaway

Jebel Ali Village's history is an engrossing account of the past that formed Dubai's present-day terrain. This coastal community, which has ancient roots in pearl diving and marine pursuits, is a reflection of the Emirati people's tenacity and adaptability. Jebel Ali Village was a crucial part of the regional economy, serving as a thriving centre for traders and fishermen as well as the peak of the pearl diving business.

A new period marked by urbanisation, industrialization, and the creation of the Jebel Ali Free Zone and Port resulted from the decline of old businesses like pearling. This development propelled Jebel Ali into a key player on the world economic arena and encouraged regional corporate expansion, trade abroad, and economic diversification.

When we think back on Jebel Ali Village's past, we realise that it serves as a living example of Dubai's incredible transformation from a little fishing village to a major global economic force. It serves as a representation of both continuity and change, where tradition and modernity coexist and where the lessons learned from the past inform the goals of the present. In Jebel Ali Village, history comes to life, reminding us that every sparkling building in Dubai conceals a tale of labour, ingenuity, and advancement that dates back through the ages.