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- Reaffirming commitment to Syria’s future, built on decades of trust
Dubai, UAEMay 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Emaar Properties PJSC (DFM: EMAAR), one of the world’s most valuable and admired real estate developers, today announced its intention to exit the joint venture structure of “The Eighth Gate,” a landmark integrated development in Yafour, Damascus, marking a decisive new chapter in Emaar’s long-standing relationship with Syria. Moving forward, the company will operate independently in the country, without reliance on any partners.
First conceptualized in 2005, “The Eighth Gate” is Syria’s first master-planned community. The $500 million integrated development, located in Yafour, 22 kilometers from downtown Damascus, spans a total area of 300,000 square meters and integrates commercial, retail, hospitality, and residential components.
This operational model adjustment underscores Emaar’s enduring confidence in Syria’s economic recovery and its belief in the transformative value “The Eighth Gate” brings to urban development. By operating independently, the company will ensure that “The Eighth Gate” meets the rigorous standards consistently upheld across Emaar’s global projects. The project will also benefit from Emaar’s disciplined operations and design philosophy, which have shaped iconic destinations such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Hills Estate, and Emaar Beachfront.
Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar Properties, said: “Our decision to exit the joint venture structure of ‘The Eighth Gate’ reflects our unwavering belief in Syria and its people. Emaar has always held the conviction that great cities deserve high-quality communities, and Damascus is one of the greatest cities in the world.”
“The Eighth Gate” holds deep significance within Syria’s national vision. Its name pays homage to Damascus’ legendary seven ancient gates—a civilization that once welcomed the world with openness, becoming an eternal symbol. The project aims to serve as a modern “eighth gate”: honoring Syria’s extraordinary cultural heritage while ushering in a new era of growth, commerce, and community development for the country.
Editor’s Note:
About Emaar Properties
Emaar Properties PJSC, listed on the Dubai Financial Market, is a global real estate developer and premium lifestyle provider with significant operations in the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia. As one of the world’s largest real estate companies, Emaar holds a land bank of approximately 600 million square feet in the UAE and key international markets.
With an exceptional delivery track record, Emaar has handed over more than 129,100 residential units since 2002 in Dubai and other global markets. Emaar boasts a strong portfolio of sustainable income-generating assets, including approximately 1.4 million square meters of leasable revenue-generating assets, and 41 hotels and resorts with over 10,000 rooms (including owned and managed properties). Today, around 28% of Emaar’s revenue comes from its shopping malls, hotels, leisure, entertainment, commercial leasing, and international operations.
Emaar’s landmark projects include the global icon Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall—the world’s most visited retail and lifestyle destination—and The Dubai Fountain, the world’s largest performing fountain.
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