Woods Bagot has led the concept masterplan design and guided the evolution of d3, building on its established creative legacy to deliver a masterplan reimagined for holistic and sustainable living. The design introduces five unique districts, each with its own personality and rhythm, yet all connected to one another and to the wider city beyond. Linear parks and open spaces are designed to embrace the waterfront promenade, downtown and wetland views, while pedestrian-focused public realms allow residents and the public to enjoy the waterfront. 

The d3 masterplan positions the district as a future focused creative ecosystem, one that expands Dubai’s design identity through its architecture, public realm and masterplan.  

At its core is The Design Line, the masterplan’s defining thread: an uninterrupted, pedestrian first mobility pathway that guides visitors through a single, continuous experiential journey. Designed to promote walkability, creative identity and connectivity, it enables people to walk, cycle, and run freely, uninterrupted by roads or encountering vehicles.

Branching from this spine, the districts unfold into vibrant neighborhoods shaped for balance, culture, and connection: 

• The Creekside frames refined waterfront living with promenade activity, mangrove tranquility, and sweeping sunset horizons.  

• SOHO becomes the social pulse of d3, a lively mixed-use quarter where commerce, culture, and community blend within human-scaled streets.  

• The Mindspace nurtures curiosity and making, offering adaptable learning and innovation environments for creators, educators, and thinkers.  

• The Sanctuary, adjacent to wildlife-rich wetlands, brings nature to one’s doorstep through immersive, peaceful residential experiences.  

• The Design HQ amplifies the district’s creative energy with an urban, dynamic mix of offices, homes, retail, and F&B, encouraging collaboration at every level. 

Across each district, architecture responds directly to its surroundings, glazed façades along the water shifting to more solid, private expressions deeper within the neighbourhoods. A network of shaded green pathways and sikkas ensures the entire district remains accessible on foot, with retail and community spaces thoughtfully placed to keep life in motion. 

The masterplan is targeting LEED Cities and Communities certification. Woods Bagot and Impact Futures, both part of the 7C Network, collaborated with Dubai Holdings Real Estate to create the d3 ESG Framework, designed to position the district as a model for a comfortable, efficient, future ready masterplan in Dubai.  

Already a recognised centre of design, d3’s expansion amplifies the cultural vibrancy that defines its identity, from global design festivals to everyday creative encounters. The new masterplan builds on this momentum, unlocking the site’s strategic location between Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, and Dubai Creek Harbour. 

Woods Bagot Principal and Studio Executive Chair Samer Charara says “The d3 masterplan is designed for imagination, opportunity and connection strategically positioning Dubai to become one of the most creative and liveable cities in the world’” 

Principal, Priya Mrinal adds “Designing the d3 Masterplan was a unique opportunity to push the boundaries of urban design. It creates a connected, human-centered district that amplifies d3’s existing creative spirit.”  

As the masterplan advances, its impact is clear: a district shaped for people, powered by creativity, and designed for a more connected, imaginative and sustainable urban future. 

Media enquiries
Zulie Mason
Content and Communications Leader – Middle East