Designs have been unveiled for the interiors of homes at AlThuraya Island, a prestigious development within the Ajmal Makan City – Sharjah Waterfront project that aims to redefine luxury island living in the region.

The striking development, which was officially launched in June this year by Ajmal Makan Real Estate Development – a leading developer of urban and mixed-used developments – promises a serene and opulent waterfront lifestyle, combining modern architecture with the natural beauty of its surroundings.

AlThuraya Island, located within the mega Sharjah Waterfront City in Al Hamriyah, embodies Ajmal Makan’s vision of redefining luxury living and sets a new standard for upscale residential properties, meeting the rising demand for premium homes in Sharjah.

Strategically located near landmarks of Sharjah and a 35-minute drive away from Dubai, AlThuraya Island offers residents of its exquisite villas and mansions easy access to the best of both cities and an exceptional living experience by combining luxury, world-class amenities, sustainability, and a strong connection to nature.

A double-height entrance lobby of some of the villas.

The architectural masterpiece offers access to an exclusive 564,000-sq-ft beach area. The 5-million-sq-ft project integrates expansive green spaces that cover over 1.3 million sq ft and offers variety of luxury villas and palaces, including:

Seabreeze Villas: Five-bedroom twin-houses that offer park and streetscape views, blending privacy with a sense of community;

Serene and Azura Villas: Six-bedroom standalone homes that offer beachfront (Azura) or garden-oriented (Serene) settings, designed to balance seclusion with openness;

Grandeur Villas: Positioned along the prime shoreline, these eight-bedroom residences feature expansive windows and central atriums, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments.

Majestic Mansions: These eight-bedroom mansions boast floating terraces with direct beach access, offering unparalleled views and exclusivity. The interior design of these residences is further enriched by the use of double-height ceilings in select properties, amplifying the sense of space and light.

The multi-award-winning XBD Collective was nominated to refine and evolve the masterplan for AlThuraya Island as well as create the interior design for the project.

The villas and mansions feature large, full-height windows that blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living.

The interior design of the project’s luxury villas is a testament to the developer’s visionary approach. The design team worked closely with Ajmal Makan to create bespoke luxury homes that reflect the island’s unique character and the client’s forward-thinking approach.

XBD Collective’s team was tasked with translating the natural beauty of the island into an interior design that would appeal to affluent buyers, offering both luxury and comfort. 

“In designing the interiors of AlThuraya Island, our goal was to bring the serenity of the island into every home. Each space is curated to ensure that residents can experience a seamless connection with nature while indulging in the comforts of luxury living,” elaborates Ellen Søhoel, Founder of XBD Collective.

Each residence on AlThuraya Island is carefully designed to offer a luxurious sanctuary, with interiors that draw inspiration from the surrounding landscapes. The villas and mansions feature large, full-height windows that blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living, ensuring that residents can enjoy breathtaking views of the sea, beaches or gardens from every corner of their home, says XBD Collective.

“At XBD Collective, we believe in designing spaces that speak to the soul. For AlThuraya Island, this meant drawing inspiration directly from its environment. The goal was to bring the outdoors in, blurring the boundaries between the luxurious interiors and the breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding landscape,” says Olena Vasylieva, Associate Design Manager.

Each villa has been designed with a specific lifestyle in mind.

Each villa has been designed with a specific lifestyle in mind, catering to the expectations of high-net-worth individuals seeking a peaceful yet lavish retreat. Neutral tones and natural materials were chosen not only to reflect the organic nature of the island but also to provide a sense of calm and tranquillity. Striking the perfect balance between breathtaking design and everyday practicality was essential, as high-net-worth clients demand not just luxury, but also comfort, she adds.

The material and colour palettes are anchored in earthy tones, including warm travertine, sandy beige and soft greys, which create a soothing atmosphere that resonates with the natural environment. Detailed marbles are prominently used on countertops, feature walls, and in the spacious bathrooms. Blue and turquoise accents, strategically placed throughout the homes, introduce a sense of freshness and tranquillity, further enhanced by the high-end furnishings that feature organic shapes and rich textures.

The bathrooms are particularly noteworthy, with each villa type offering a unique design. For instance, the master ensuites feature freestanding bathtubs with panoramic views, accented by bespoke fixtures and marbles that reflect the island’s coastal charm.

Vasylieva notes: “The master suite bathrooms are envisioned as more than just functional spaces; they are crafted to be personal retreats, embodying the essence of a home spa. With carefully selected marbles and the thoughtful integration of natural light, every detail is designed to evoke a profound sense of calm and luxury.”

In the formal living and dining areas, expansive spaces are highlighted by the smart use of indirect lighting and sculptural lighting fixtures that not only illuminate but also add a touch of elegance and art. The dining rooms, adorned with chandeliers and surrounded by lush greenery visible through the glass partitions, serve as the perfect setting for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations.

Commenting on the challenges in designing the project, she says: “One of the key design challenges was achieving the ideal balance between aesthetics and functionality. The interiors needed to be not only visually stunning but also practical for daily use. We worked closely with the architecture team to ensure that the interiors complemented the architectural vision, while also incorporating features that make each villa livable and intuitive for its residents.”

Habiba Shohayeb, Senior Interior Designer, reflects: “The cohesion of natural elements with modern design techniques creates a luxurious sanctuary where comfort meets sophistication. Every residence at AlThuraya Island is not just a home, but a retreat into serene island living.”

AlThuraya Island offers a range of world-class amenities, including swimming pools, fitness centres, spas, and recreational facilities. Residents can also enjoy access to exclusive beaches, parks, and green spaces.

Sustainability has become an increasingly important aspect of luxury design, and it was integral to XBD Collective’s approach at AlThuraya. Eco-friendly materials were used wherever possible, including interior paints with antimicrobial properties that provide added protection against bacteria and certain viruses.

Energy-efficient lighting systems were also incorporated. Each decision was made with the long-term vision of the community in mind, creating homes that stand the test of time in terms of both design and environmental impact, says the interior designer.