Chelsea and DAMAC Collaboration | Chelsea Residences Dubai

When Todd Boehly and the BlueCo investment group took ownership of Chelsea in 2022, they made it clear the club’s vision went beyond the pitch. Chelsea would expand its global identity into new industries, partnerships, and markets. One of the boldest steps in this strategy has been the Chelsea and DAMAC partnership, which marks Chelsea’s entry into Dubai’s booming real estate scene.

DAMAC, already one of the region’s most influential developers, has partnered with Chelsea to launch the Chelsea Residences Project in Dubai Maritime City. Designed by the renowned global architecture firm Gensler, the project blends luxury living, football-inspired branding, and forward-looking sustainable design.

This collaboration is not just about real estate—it’s about redefining the relationship between global sports and property markets.

Official Details of the Chelsea and DAMAC Partnership

The DAMAC and Chelsea collaboration was officially announced in April 2025. Under this agreement, DAMAC became the Official Property Development Partner of Chelsea, marking a long-term global partnership that goes far beyond sponsorship.

As part of the deal, the DAMAC logo appeared on Chelsea’s men’s and women’s kits for the remainder of the 2024/25 season. This short-term kit sponsorship was unique and separate from the club’s longer-term shirt supplier deals, signaling a marketing push directly linked to the property launch.

One of the most asked questions has been whether players will receive apartments. While such rumors have circulated, no official confirmation exists. What is confirmed, however, is the delivery schedule—buyers can expect handover in Q4 2029.

This partnership stands as a milestone in sports partnerships in real estate, setting the stage for how football clubs and property developers can align brands across industries.

Chelsea Residences in Dubai Maritime City

The Chelsea Residences Dubai will rise in Dubai Maritime City (DMC), a fast-developing waterfront corridor strategically positioned near Port Rashid and just minutes from Downtown. With its proximity to shipping hubs and the central business district, DMC is quickly becoming one of the most promising areas for real estate growth.

The project will consist of six towers reaching around 130 meters, comprising more than 1,400 residential units. This scale places it among the largest branded residences in Dubai, reflecting the ambition of the Chelsea and DAMAC partnership.

Designed by Gensler, the project fuses sleek modern lines with subtle Chelsea-inspired details. Residents will enjoy unique amenities rarely seen in residential towers, including:

• A rooftop football pitch, echoing the club’s sporting DNA

• Infinity pools overlooking the Arabian Gulf

• Cryotherapy and wellness facilities

• Private cinema and entertainment areas

• Family-friendly spaces such as kids’ play areas and landscaped terraces

In the competitive field of branded residences in Dubai, Chelsea Residences introduces a completely new dimension: sports identity embedded into luxury living.

Prices and Payment Plans for Chelsea Residences 

According to DAMAC’s official releases, starting prices are:

• 1BR apartments from AED 2.17M

• 2BR apartments from AED 3.13M

• 3BR apartments from AED 4.94M

International listings have recorded higher figures, such as a 2BR unit advertised at ~AED 4.96M, highlighting how pricing can vary depending on floor, view, and configuration.

The standard DAMAC payment plan follows a 60/40 structure:

• 20% down payment

• 40% through installments during construction

• 40% upon handover in Q4 2029

Buyers must also budget for extra costs, including:

• 4% Dubai Land Department (DLD) fee

• Trustee fees of AED 2,000–4,000

• Up to 2% agent commission

For investors evaluating whether to buy apartment in Dubai today, the Chelsea Residences represents both an opportunity to enter a branded luxury market and a chance to secure property in a rising district.

Impact of the Chelsea–DAMAC Collaboration on Dubai Real Estate

This project matters because it demonstrates how global sports can drive real estate trends. Industry data (Knight Frank, 2023) shows that branded residences in Dubai sell 25–30% faster and at premiums of ~30% compared to standard properties. The association with Chelsea amplifies this effect by appealing to a global fan base.

Demand from international buyers who want a tangible connection to the club will likely accelerate absorption rates, while DAMAC benefits by setting a benchmark for luxury property projects in Dubai that link sport and lifestyle.

The location further strengthens the investment case. Investing in Dubai Maritime City means betting on a district with expanding infrastructure, new transport links, and a strategic position between old Dubai and the modern Downtown core. For many, this collaboration could be a turning point in how football branding integrates into Middle Eastern real estate markets.

Sustainable Design in Chelsea and DAMAC Collaboration

A defining element of the Chelsea Residences is its commitment to sustainable design. DAMAC has increasingly aligned with Dubai’s Green Building Regulations, incorporating:

• Energy-efficient systems to reduce electricity demand

• Daylight optimization through floor-to-ceiling windows

• Natural ventilation to minimize reliance on air conditioning

• Water-saving systems, including smart irrigation and low-flow fixtures

For long-term investors, this translates into reduced operating expenses (OPEX) and stronger resale value, as global buyers increasingly prioritize sustainability.

The project also reflects broader themes of sports branding in real estate, showing that football clubs can add cultural value to buildings while complying with foreign investment in UAE property requirements. For those deciding between buy property in Dubai today or waiting, Chelsea Residences proves how off-plan options can align with the future of buying ready or off-plan property in Dubai?

Jersey Sponsorship and DAMAC’s Branding Role

DAMAC’s role as Chelsea shirt sponsor for the remainder of the 2024/25 season was more than a temporary deal. By featuring its logo on matchday kits, DAMAC extended the partnership beyond property to global audiences in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

This short-term sponsorship, distinct from long-term kit contracts, highlighted how DAMAC strategically used football visibility to boost its image in the Middle East real estate market.

For Chelsea, it represented another global partnership under Todd Boehly’s ownership, blending sport with commercial innovation. For DAMAC, it provided a rare opportunity to market apartments to millions of fans worldwide under the narrative of the Chelsea and DAMAC partnership.

Chelsea Residences Investment Risks and Buyer Guidelines

While the opportunity is exciting, buyers should approach with informed caution:

• Construction timeline: Handover is scheduled for Q4 2029; delays could affect investment horizons.

• Pricing differences: Media prices are indicative; actual contract figures may differ by unit, floor, and sea view.

• Mandatory costs: Include 4% DLD fee, trustee fees of AED 2–4K, and up to 2% agency commission.

• Payment structure: DAMAC’s 60/40 plan allows structured installments, supporting buying property in installments Dubai.

• Residency benefits: Purchases over AED 2M may qualify buyers for the Dubai Golden Visa, adding a powerful lifestyle advantage.

For anyone analyzing Dubai property costs, factoring in these risks ensures a realistic financial plan.

Chelsea Residences vs Other Branded Residences in Dubai

The Chelsea Residences is best understood by comparison:

This shows how Chelsea Residences stands out as the first sports-branded residence in Dubai, with scale and uniqueness on its side. Just as many celebrities buy homes in Palm Jumeirah and Downtown, Chelsea Residences positions DMC as a new aspirational hub.

Chelsea Residences and the Future for Investors in Dubai

In conclusion, the DAMAC and Chelsea collaboration is more than a commercial deal—it’s a sign of how Dubai real estate continues to innovate. By merging football culture with luxury living, DAMAC has opened the door to a new audience of buyers and investors.

For those exploring investing in Dubai Maritime City, the Chelsea Residences offer both a strong brand identity and the promise of long-term capital growth in a rising waterfront district.

If you’re weighing options between Maritime City and other coastal communities in Dubai, reach out to Kotook advisors for tailored guidance and insight into the Best Areas to Invest in Dubai.