When you think of Jacob & Co., visions of dazzling diamonds, intricate horological masterpieces, and the boldness of avant-garde design likely spring to mind. The luxury watchmaker and jeweler, synonymous with crafting objects of desire, has now set its sights on a new frontier: high-end real estate. Partnering with Ohana Development, the duo has unveiled their joint venture—the $1.3 billion ‘Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana’ in the UAE.
This ambitious project doesn’t just promise luxury; it dares to redefine it. Nestled between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the development offers prime beachfront properties that seamlessly marry Ohana Development’s flair for accessible luxury with Jacob & Co.’s penchant for pushing boundaries. The result? A unique blend of exclusivity, artistry, and functionality that caters to the world’s most discerning buyers.
photo: @Ohana Development and Jacob & Co
A Symphony of Design and Detail
True to Jacob & Co.’s DNA, the design philosophy behind the project draws heavily from the brand’s timepieces and jewelry collections. Think of a villa as a living embodiment of the Astronomia watch: opulent, intricate, and unapologetically bold. The villas and apartments are adorned with architectural elements reminiscent of Jacob & Co.’s hallmark features. From faceted façades inspired by gem cuts to spiral staircases echoing the complexity of a tourbillon, every detail reflects the brand’s artistry.
The properties include everything from one-bedroom apartments to sprawling canal-front mansions. Each unit comes with stunning sea views, resort-style amenities, and bespoke finishes that speak to Jacob & Co.’s craftsmanship. For those who’ve ever dreamed of living inside a work of art, this development might just be the closest realization.
photos: @Ohana Development and Jacob & Co
More Than Just a Home: A Lifestyle
The development’s amenities are just as extravagant as its design. World-first offerings include the Jacob & Co. Beach Club, the Jacob & Co. Residents Club, and even a Seafront Cigar Lounge. Each space has been meticulously curated to embody the essence of luxury living, much like the brand’s watches encapsulate timeless elegance.
Strategically positioned near Al Maktoum International Airport—soon to be the world’s largest—the project also offers unparalleled connectivity. Whether you’re jetting off to Europe or returning from an adventure in Asia, the world feels just a stone’s throw away.
From Wrists to Waterfronts: A Critical Perspective
Jacob & Co.’s foray into real estate is both bold and intriguing. The brand’s transition from luxury goods to high-end living raises important questions about the evolving definition of luxury. Is this an innovative expansion or a calculated overreach?
On one hand, the project’s alignment with Jacob & Co.’s ethos is undeniable. It’s a natural evolution for a brand that thrives on creating experiences, not just products. The collaboration with Ohana Development ensures that the venture retains the craftsmanship and attention to detail that customers expect from the Jacob & Co. name.
On the other hand, skeptics might question whether the brand’s core identity could dilute as it ventures into new markets. Can the spirit of a meticulously crafted timepiece truly translate into the sprawling expanse of a beachfront mansion? Or does this move risk reducing Jacob & Co.’s legacy to just another logo slapped onto a luxury product?
A New Era of Opulence
Regardless of the critiques, ‘Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana’ is undeniably a statement. Scheduled for completion in Q2 2028, this project represents the convergence of haute horology and high-end living. It’s a bold testament to the growing trend of lifestyle branding in luxury markets, where the name on your wrist matches the name on your property deed.
Jacob Arabo’s vision of “experiences that go beyond the ordinary” has taken a literal turn with this venture. Whether the result is a masterpiece or a misstep, one thing is certain: Jacob & Co. is keeping the world watching—and now, living.
