If you’ve noticed Jumeirah Lakes Towers looking a little less “lakes” lately, there’s a reason.
If you’ve been anywhere near Jumeirah Lakes Towers recently, you’ve probably clocked the big change. Some of the lakes that give JLT its name have been drained, leaving behind concrete and confusion. FACT has done some digging and found out that these lakes have been drained to welcome a new development called Bay360.
Now, there’s an answer. The drained lakes are part of preparations for Bay360, a new waterfront community destination designed to slot into everyday life in JLT. Think of it as a lifestyle hub where residents and office workers can dip in for coffee, lunch meetings, errands, after-work dinners, and low-key weekend walks, all in one integrated setting.
Set along the lake, with the water expected to return once works are complete, Bay360 is being built around a landscaped promenade. This walkway will form the backbone of the development, encouraging strolling, casual meetups, and outdoor dining. Shaded seating areas and public spaces are also part of the plan, helping the waterfront feel usable throughout the day rather than reserved for cooler months only.
Food and retail will take centre stage. Bay360 will introduce 13 dining outlets spread along the waterfront, backed by 17 lifestyle retail units and essential services aimed at daily convenience. A Spinneys supermarket is also on the blueprint, adding to the practical appeal for anyone living or working nearby.
It is not just about places to eat and shop. The development will also incorporate office spaces and medical clinics, creating a mixed-use environment intended to keep the area active from morning through evening. Connectivity is another key focus, with upgraded pedestrian routes linking Bay360 to surrounding clusters and improving walkability across the district, including easier access to the metro.
Construction is currently underway, with completion scheduled for 2027. While the drained lakes may feel like a drastic change for now, they are a temporary phase. Once finished, Bay360 will restore JLT’s identity with a brand new addition.
GO: Visit www.bay360.ae for more information.