Few residential towers in Dubai have a skyline presence like 23 Marina. Rising at the gateway of Dubai Marina, it is one of the tallest all-residential buildings in the world, a landmark you can pick out from Sheikh Zayed Road, from the Palm Jumeirah and from the beach at JBR. For residents, it offers large apartments, big balconies, sweeping views and the lifestyle of one of Dubai’s most established waterfront districts.
But living in a supertall tower is about more than the view. Prospective tenants and buyers want to know how the building connects to the rest of the city, what facilities it offers, what apartments really cost, how old-build quality holds up and what to check before signing. In 2026, they also want to know about the March incident that brought the tower into the news, and what it means for residents.
This guide covers all of it. You will find the tower’s profile, its location, how to reach the metro, tram and main roads, the facilities and amenities, apartment sizes and indicative prices, the neighbourhood around it, a balanced list of pros and cons, comparisons with alternatives and practical checklists. Where sources disagree, which happens often with supertall towers, I flag it.
23 Marina at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Building | 23 Marina |
| Community | Dubai Marina (Marsa Dubai) |
| Type | Residential skyscraper |
| Height | About 392 metres (1,287 to 1,289 ft) |
| Floors | 88 per most technical sources (some listings say 89 or 90) |
| Apartments | About 289 |
| Unit types | 2- and 3-bedroom apartments plus duplexes |
| Completed | 2012 |
| Main contractor | Dubai Civil Engineering |
The Skyscraper Museum describes 23 Marina as purely residential, with 289 apartments on 88 floors, and notes it was the fourth tallest building in Dubai at 392 metres. Wikipedia gives the height as 392.8 metres and the construction contractor as Dubai Civil Engineering. One contractor’s project page says the building programme includes 2- and 3-bedroom apartments and 48 duplexes on the upper floors.
Why the numbers differ between sources
If you research the tower, you will see small differences. The CTBUH Skyscraper Center lists the height as 392.4 metres with 88 floors, while Structurae lists 392.8 metres with 89 floors above ground and four below. Some brokerage listings say 90 floors above ground and completion in 2012. These variations usually come from how floors are counted (mechanical levels, podium floors, refuge floors) and how height is measured. For a tenant, none of it changes daily life. If you need an exact figure, rely on the official title or building documentation.
The “fourth tallest” claim also needs care. It reflects the ranking at the time of the source, and new towers can change that. Treat it as a historical description, not a current league-table position.
Understanding Dubai Marina
An established waterfront district
Dubai Marina is an artificial canal city built along a stretch of about two miles of Persian Gulf shoreline. One listing notes its large canal spans 3.5 km with access to the sea from both ends. It is lined with towers, a waterfront promenade, restaurants, cafes, a mall and a yacht-filled marina, and it sits right next to JBR and its beach.
Why people choose Dubai Marina
- Walkable lifestyle. The Marina Walk, JBR’s beachfront and the Marina Mall give residents plenty to do on foot.
- Strong transport links. The Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram serve the district, and Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Sufouh Road are close.
- Rental depth. Dubai Marina has a deep, liquid rental market with constant demand from professionals and families.
- Beach and leisure access. JBR’s beach, water sports, golf and sports clubs are nearby.
- International community. The district is diverse and well served by restaurants and services from around the world.
The trade-offs of the Marina
The Marina is busy. Weekend crowds, traffic on Al Sufouh Road and Marina’s older towers mean it suits people who like energy more than quiet. It is also not cheap compared with many other parts of Dubai.
Location of 23 Marina
Where it sits
23 Marina is described as located at the gateway of Dubai Marina. Its address in the official records is Plot 392-568, Al Marsa, Dubai Marina. The tower sits at the edge of the district, which gives it striking views in several directions: toward the Marina canal, toward the Gulf and the Palm Jumeirah, and back toward the Sheikh Zayed Road corridor.
A broker describes the tower as next to a metro station and the Emirates Golf Club, with views toward the marina, the Dubai International Marine Club, Sheikh Zayed Road and Dubai Media City. That wording is typical of marketing copy, so treat the distances as approximate and verify by walking the route yourself.
Views
Views are the tower’s headline attraction. Listings describe units with partial sea and Palm views. Which direction your apartment faces matters enormously, so always check the specific floor and orientation.
Nearby neighbourhoods
From 23 Marina you are within easy reach of:
- Dubai Marina Walk and Marina Mall
- JBR and The Beach
- Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT)
- Dubai Media City, Internet City and Knowledge Village
- Emirates Hills and The Greens
- Al Sufouh and Palm Jumeirah
- Al Barsha and Mall of the Emirates
Approximate travel times
These are rough guides based on typical conditions and general area knowledge. Traffic can change them a lot.
| Destination | Approx. time |
|---|---|
| Marina Walk and Marina Mall | 5 to 10 minutes on foot or by short ride |
| JBR beach | 10 to 15 minutes on foot or 5 minutes by car |
| JLT | 5 to 10 minutes by car |
| Dubai Internet City / Media City | 5 to 15 minutes by car |
| Palm Jumeirah | 10 to 20 minutes by car |
| Mall of the Emirates | 10 to 20 minutes by car |
| Downtown Dubai / Burj Khalifa | 25 to 40 minutes by car |
| DIFC | 20 to 35 minutes by car |
| Dubai International Airport (DXB) | 35 to 50 minutes by car |
| Al Maktoum International (DWC) | 30 to 40 minutes by car |
Rush hours on Sheikh Zayed Road and the Al Khail corridor can stretch these considerably.
Connectivity and Transport
Dubai Metro
The metro is a major draw. Listings point to the Dubai Metro’s proximity as a lifestyle advantage. The Red Line runs along Sheikh Zayed Road, and stations serving the Marina area connect residents to Dubai Internet City, JLT, the Mall of the Emirates, Business Bay, Downtown, DIFC and the airport.
Because the building sits at the edge of the Marina, the exact walking time to the nearest station depends on which entrance you use and which station you choose. I did not find a verified walking time in the sources I reviewed, so test the route yourself in the heat of summer before you decide it works for you. A “next to the metro” claim in a listing can still mean a ten-minute walk in 40-degree weather.
Dubai Tram and local transport
Dubai Marina also has a tram line that loops through the Marina and JBR and connects to the metro. It is useful for short hops along the waterfront, JBR and Marina Mall, and for connecting to the metro without needing a car. Check the current route map and stations, since the nearest stop and walking distance from 23 Marina vary by exit.
Buses and taxis also serve the area. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are plentiful in the Marina, though demand surges on weekends and evenings.
Roads
Road access is strong. Sheikh Zayed Road is close, and Al Sufouh Road links the Marina with Palm Jumeirah and Umm Suqeim. From there, you can reach Al Khail Road, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and the main routes toward Abu Dhabi, the airport and the rest of the city. In rush hours, the Marina exits and Al Sufouh Road can be congested.
Parking
Parking in supertall towers is a major lifestyle factor. Listings for 23 Marina mention covered parking among the amenities, and many apartment listings include two parking spaces. Allocation varies by apartment, so confirm how many bays your lease includes, whether visitor parking is available, and how the parking is accessed. In a tower with hundreds of apartments, valet and access arrangements matter.
Walkability and cycling
Dubai Marina is one of Dubai’s most walkable districts, particularly along the Marina Walk and JBR. In cooler months, residents can walk to cafes, the beach and the mall. In summer, covered walkways and short taxi rides help. Cycling lanes exist in parts of the district and along the beachfront.
Facilities and Amenities
Headline features
Supertall residential towers are known for large amenity decks, and 23 Marina is no exception. Based on listings and broker descriptions, the building offers:
- A health club and gym. Residents can find a health club in the building.
- Spas. There are spas at three levels of the tower.
- Swimming pools. The pool count is one of the most inconsistently reported details. One listing says there are seven large swimming pools, while an older version of the Wikipedia article said the tower has 57 swimming pools. The larger figure likely includes private plunge pools in duplexes. Duplex owners are described as having a private heated Jacuzzi-style plunge pool on the balcony, and a glass wall separates the indoor and outdoor pool on the podium. Confirm the number and access rules directly.
- A children’s play area. The amenities list includes a kids’ play area.
- Barbecue area and storage. Listings mention a barbecue area and storage areas.
- Lobby. A building lobby is also listed.
- Pet-friendly status. One broker describes 23 Marina as a pet-friendly tower. Rules vary by landlord and owners’ association, so confirm in writing.
Safety and building systems
Apartments are described as having tinted double-glazed windows, electricity backup and 24-hour security. In a building of this height, those features matter. Ask the management about lifts, backup systems, fire safety and evacuation plans, and ask for recent inspection or maintenance records if you are buying.
Private lifts for duplexes
An older Wikipedia version notes that each duplex in the tower is equipped with its own private elevator. That is a distinctive feature for the top-end apartments, though it is not something every resident will have.
Inside the apartments
Apartments are generally large. A recent listing shows a three-bedroom apartment of 2,161 sq. ft. with four bathrooms, and another describes a three-bedroom plus maid’s room with four bathrooms and two parking spaces. Balconies and terraces are standard in most units, and floor-to-ceiling glazing is common in tall towers. Maid’s rooms are a useful feature for larger families.
What to verify on site
Supertall buildings vary in management quality, and amenity lists can be generous. At a viewing, check:
- Whether pools, spas and gym are open and in good condition
- Lift waiting times at peak hours, especially in the morning and evening
- How the building handles deliveries and visitors
- Condition of corridors, lobbies and common areas
- Wind noise and balcony usability on higher floors
- Cooling arrangements and any chilled-water billing
- Maintenance responsiveness and owners’ association communications
A Resident Safety Note: The March 2026 Incident
Because it is relevant to anyone researching the building in 2026, I want to address the incident that put 23 Marina in the news. I will stay with what the authorities and reliable outlets have said and flag where reports vary.
Dubai authorities confirmed on 7 March a minor incident on the façade of a tower in Dubai Marina, caused by debris from a successful interception. The Dubai Media Office’s statement said the situation had been contained and that no injuries were reported inside the building. Media coverage named 23 Marina as the building concerned, and reports described a fire breaking out after debris from an intercepted drone struck the tower during a series of attacks across the Gulf. Some outlets and Wikipedia’s current entry describe the event more strongly, saying the tower was struck by an Iranian drone. Accounts of the extent of damage and any evacuations differed between outlets, and I could not verify every detail.
What this means for you as a prospective tenant or buyer:
- Ask for current information. Request a written update from the building management or owners’ association on any repairs, façade work, structural assessments and insurance claims.
- Check the condition of the affected areas. Ask which floors or façade sections were involved, whether repairs are complete and whether any works are ongoing.
- Review insurance and safety. Confirm that the building’s insurance is current and ask what it covers.
- Consider the wider context. Regional security events can affect people’s comfort levels with any high-profile building. That is a personal decision, and it is reasonable to factor it in.
- Rely on official sources for updates. Follow announcements from the relevant Dubai authorities rather than social media videos.
None of this should be alarmist. Dubai authorities described the event as contained, and the tower remained a residential building. But a careful tenant or buyer asks questions, and it is better to ask than assume.
Apartment Types, Rents and Prices
Unit mix
With about 289 apartments across roughly 88 floors, 23 Marina has relatively few units per floor, which means large layouts. The building programme includes two- and three-bedroom apartments and 48 duplexes on the upper floors. That mix tilts toward families and long-term residents rather than studio-seeking singles.
Rental prices
Recent listings give an indication of rents, though they vary with floor, view, condition and furnishing.
- A 2,161 sq. ft. three-bedroom apartment with four bathrooms, on a high floor, vacant and unfurnished, was listed at AED 200,000 per year in 2026.
That equates to roughly AED 93 per sq. ft. per year. Other layouts, higher floors, sea views and duplexes will price higher, while lower floors or older fit-outs may price lower. I did not find a reliable set of current two-bedroom or duplex rents that I could verify, so ask several brokers for quotes and compare them against the Dubai rental index.
Sale prices
One listing offered a three-bedroom, 2,161 sq. ft. apartment with four bathrooms on a higher floor for AED 1,850,000. That listing is not clearly dated and may be old, so treat it only as a rough historical reference, not a current price. Current sale prices for supertall Marina towers have changed significantly in recent years, so check recent Dubai Land Department transactions and obtain a professional valuation.
Other costs to budget
- Service charges (for owners), which in a tower with this many amenities can be substantial
- Chilled-water or district cooling charges
- DEWA electricity and water
- Internet and TV
- Ejari registration and agent commission (for tenants)
- Security deposit
- Parking fees, if you need extra bays
- Maintenance and insurance, especially for owners of older fit-outs
Dining, Shopping and Lifestyle Nearby
Marina Walk and Marina Mall
Marina Walk is the heart of the district’s social life, with restaurants, cafes and shops along the water. Marina Mall adds supermarkets, fashion and services within a short distance. For daily life, you rarely need to leave the Marina for basic needs.
JBR and the beach
JBR’s beachfront offers dining, retail, public beach access and events. It is a short walk or ride from the tower and is one of the main reasons people choose the area.
Dining
The Marina’s restaurant scene is broad, from casual cafes to fine dining with views. Weekend evenings can be busy, so booking ahead is wise.
Leisure and sport
Golf, water sports, gyms and sports clubs are nearby. 23 Marina is described as close to the Emirates Golf Club, which adds to the area’s recreational appeal.
Hotels
Many hotels and serviced apartments in the Marina and JBR provide options for visiting friends, family and business guests.
Education, Healthcare and Daily Needs
Schools
Families in Dubai Marina typically look at schools in nearby areas such as Dubai Media City, The Greens, Emirates Hills, Al Sufouh and Al Barsha. Because school quality, fees, curricula and admissions change, check the education authority’s current information, and test the morning commute, since school-run traffic can be heavy.
Healthcare
Dubai Marina and neighbouring areas have many clinics, pharmacies and medical centres, and major hospitals are within a reasonable drive. If a specific provider matters, check its distance and opening hours.
Groceries and services
Supermarkets, convenience stores, laundries, salons and banks are widely available in the Marina, often within walking distance. Delivery services also work well in this district.
Pros and Cons of 23 Marina
Advantages
- Landmark supertall tower. Few residential buildings in the world match its height and skyline presence.
- Spectacular views. Marina, Gulf and Palm views from higher floors are a major draw.
- Large apartments. Two- and three-bedroom layouts and duplexes offer generous space.
- Extensive amenities. Health club, spas, pools, play area and barbecue facilities are listed.
- Pet-friendly listing. One broker describes the building as pet-friendly, subject to confirmation.
- Strong location. Dubai Marina, JBR, JLT and Media City are close at hand.
- Metro and tram access. Public transport options exist in the district.
- Deep rental market. Dubai Marina has long-standing demand from professionals and families.
- Parking. Covered parking and multiple bays are commonly listed for larger apartments.
Drawbacks
- Premium pricing. Large, high-floor units in this tower cost significantly more than smaller or older buildings.
- Building age. Completed in 2012, so some units and systems may need updating.
- Information inconsistencies. Floors, pool counts and other details vary across sources.
- Recent incident. The March 2026 event means buyers and tenants should ask extra questions about repairs, insurance and communications.
- Lift waiting times. In a tower with this many floors, peak-hour waits can be longer.
- Service charges. Amenity-rich supertall buildings tend to have high service charges for owners.
- Marina congestion. Weekend and evening traffic can be heavy.
- Wind and balcony conditions. Very high floors can be windy.
- Distance from some business districts. Downtown and DIFC are 25 to 40 minutes away by car.
Who Is 23 Marina Best For?
Families who want space and a lifestyle district
Large apartments with maid’s rooms, play areas and pools make the tower suitable for families who want a vertical, amenity-rich home near the beach.
Professionals working in Media City, Internet City and JLT
A short commute and access to the metro and tram suit those employed in the nearby business hubs.
Long-term residents who value views and status
For people who want a landmark address with sweeping views, the tower stands out.
Investors targeting the Marina’s rental market
Large units and a recognisable address can attract tenants, though yield depends on price, service charges and condition.
Pet owners
A pet-friendly listing makes it worth considering, once policy is confirmed.
Who should think twice?
Budget-conscious tenants, those who dislike tall buildings or heights, people who want the newest finishes, and anyone who commutes mainly to Downtown or DIFC may prefer other options.
Investment Perspective
Demand drivers
Dubai Marina is one of the city’s most established rental markets, and supertall towers add a premium for views and status. Large layouts suit families and executives who typically stay longer than short-term tenants.
What to analyse before buying
- Net yield. Compare rent with service charges, maintenance and vacancy. High service charges can eat into returns.
- Floor, view and condition. Price differences between floors and orientations can be large.
- Building condition and repairs. Ask for records of major works, including any façade repairs after the March 2026 incident.
- Insurance. Confirm what is covered at building and unit level.
- Comparable transactions. Check recent Dubai Land Department sales in 23 Marina and nearby supertall towers such as Princess Tower, Marina 101 and The Torch.
- Owners’ association and management. Quality management matters more in tall towers than in low-rise buildings.
- Exit liquidity. High-priced units can take longer to sell, so plan your holding period.
A balanced view
Prime Marina addresses can hold their appeal, but returns are not guaranteed, and market conditions, supply and regional events can influence demand. Rely on current data, independent valuation and professional advice instead of broker marketing.
23 Marina Compared with Alternatives
Versus Princess Tower and other supertalls
Nearby supertall towers such as Princess Tower, Marina 101 and The Torch offer similar views and amenities. Compare floor plans, service charges, building condition, lift performance and management. Each building has its own quirks and history.
Versus JLT towers
JLT offers lower prices and a lake-side setting, with strong metro access, but without direct beach or marina views. It is a good option for budget-conscious professionals who still want proximity to the Marina.
Versus Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah offers an iconic address and beach living, though typically at higher prices and with more traffic congestion on the single access road. 23 Marina gives you comparable views and better access to the metro and Sheikh Zayed Road.
Versus Downtown Dubai
Downtown offers a central, prestigious address with direct access to the Mall and the Burj Khalifa district, but not the waterfront lifestyle. If your work is in Downtown or DIFC, the commute from the Marina can be a drawback.
Versus newer Marina and Dubai Harbour developments
Newer projects offer modern finishes and new-build warranties, but they are often smaller and may cost more per square foot. 23 Marina offers larger apartments, but the building is older.
Sample Daily Scenarios
Scenario 1: The Media City professional. A marketing manager working in Dubai Media City drives or takes a short ride to the office in 10 to 15 minutes. Evenings are spent walking along the Marina Walk.
Scenario 2: The family weekend. A family heads down to the podium pool in the morning, walks to JBR for lunch and spends the afternoon at the beach. In the evening, the children use the play area while parents unwind in the spa.
Scenario 3: The DIFC commuter. A consultant works in DIFC and uses the metro in the morning, which takes around 30 to 40 minutes door to door depending on the walk to the station. In the summer, a short taxi to the station makes the trip more comfortable.
Scenario 4: The lift test. A prospective tenant visits at 8 a.m. on a weekday to see how long the lift wait is on a high floor. That one visit tells them more than any brochure.
Scenario 5: The careful buyer. A buyer asks the owners’ association for repair records and insurance documents before making an offer, including details about the March 2026 incident. Having the answers in writing makes the decision easier.
Practical Checklist for Tenants
- Visit at peak hours to test lift waiting times and traffic.
- Inspect the exact floor and view, including balcony condition and wind.
- Walk to the nearest metro and tram stops in the heat of the day.
- Confirm the amenities you want, including pool access, spa and gym.
- Ask about parking allocation, valet arrangements and visitor parking.
- Check the AC, plumbing, appliances and windows.
- Ask about chilled-water billing and what is included in the rent.
- Verify pet policy in writing if you have animals.
- Ask about repairs and works, including any ongoing façade or structural work.
- Request insurance information for the building if available.
- Negotiate payment terms, including cheques and deposit.
- Register the tenancy through Ejari.
- Check the broker’s licence and the listing’s permit number.
Practical Checklist for Buyers
- Obtain the title deed and confirm unit size, floor and parking.
- Request service charge statements and look for arrears.
- Ask for building inspection and maintenance records.
- Request written details of the March 2026 incident, repairs, insurance claims and any assessments.
- Check for mortgages or liens.
- Review any current tenancy and rent level.
- Inspect the unit and consider an independent snagging report.
- Compare recent transactions in 23 Marina and nearby towers.
- Understand transfer costs and Dubai Land Department fees.
- Calculate net yield after charges and vacancy.
- Plan your exit strategy and holding period.
- Use a licensed broker and independent legal advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 23 Marina?
A residential supertall skyscraper in Dubai Marina, about 392 metres tall, with roughly 289 apartments.
How many floors does 23 Marina have?
Most technical sources say 88 floors. Some listings say 89 or 90, depending on how floors are counted.
When was 23 Marina completed?
In 2012, according to several sources.
What types of apartments does it have?
Two- and three-bedroom apartments and 48 duplexes, according to one contractor’s description.
How many swimming pools are there?
Reports vary. One listing says seven large pools, and an older Wikipedia version cited 57, likely including private duplex plunge pools. Confirm with building management.
Is 23 Marina pet-friendly?
One broker lists it as pet-friendly. Confirm with the landlord and the owners’ association.
Is it near the metro?
Listings say it is near a metro station, and the Red Line serves the Marina area. Test the actual walking route and time yourself.
How much is rent?
One 2026 listing showed AED 200,000 per year for a 2,161 sq. ft. unfurnished three-bedroom on a high floor. Other units vary.
How much does it cost to buy?
I could not verify current prices. An older listing showed AED 1,850,000 for a 2,161 sq. ft. three-bedroom. Check recent transactions.
What happened at 23 Marina in March 2026?
Dubai authorities said debris from a successful interception caused a minor incident on the façade of a tower in Dubai Marina, that the situation was contained and that no injuries were reported inside the building. Media reports named 23 Marina and varied in how they described the event. Ask for current information from building management.
Is the building safe to live in?
It remains a residential building. Because details of the damage and repairs are best confirmed by the owners’ association, ask for written updates, inspection records and insurance information before you decide.
Who is the main contractor?
Dubai Civil Engineering.
Is it good for families?
It can be, thanks to the large layouts, play area, pools and nearby beach, but check amenities, lift performance and school access.
What is the main drawback?
Premium pricing, an older building with data inconsistencies online, and the need to ask extra questions about repairs and management after the March 2026 incident.
Final Verdict
23 Marina is one of Dubai’s most recognisable residential towers, and it delivers what its height promises: spectacular views, large apartments, a long list of amenities and an address in the middle of the city’s best-known waterfront district. With the metro and tram in reach, the Marina Walk and JBR on the doorstep and a deep rental market, it is a strong contender for families, professionals and long-term residents who value space and lifestyle.
The trade-offs are real. Prices are at the premium end, the building is more than a decade old, public information is inconsistent, and the March 2026 façade incident means careful buyers and tenants should ask for written updates on repairs, insurance and building safety. Peak-hour lift waits and Marina traffic are everyday considerations too.
If you are considering 23 Marina, visit in person at different times of day, inspect several units and floors, compare it with neighbouring supertall towers and verify every key detail before you sign or buy.
Disclaimer: This article draws on technical databases, property-portal listings, broker materials and news reports. Building details, amenities, rents, prices, service charges, repair status, insurance arrangements and transport services can change or differ between sources, and accounts of the March 2026 incident varied between outlets. Please verify everything with the landlord, building management, owners’ association, a licensed broker, the Dubai Land Department, the RTA and official government announcements before making any rental or purchase decision. This is general information, not legal, financial or investment advice.