If you own a villa on the Palm Jumeirah, chances are you’ve already seen the value of living in one of the world’s most iconic waterfront communities. But what often goes unnoticed is the behind-the-scenes work that keeps the Palm in top condition work led by the Dutch for over two decades now.
Just recently, Van Oord, a Dutch marine contractor, wrapped up a large maintenance project across the Palm. They moved over 1 million cubic metres of sand to restore and reshape the beaches along the fronds and crescent. This wasn’t just a cosmetic update. It was a functional, long-term fix to preserve the island’s shape and protect properties from erosion and wave impact.
Van Oord isn’t new to the Palm. They were part of the original construction team behind the island back in the early 2000s. Since then, they’ve consistently returned to carry out maintenance works that help keep everything in place: the fronds, the beaches, the shoreline curves that define the Palm's unique layout.
As Dutch contractors ourselves, we’re proud of this legacy. The Dutch have been building and protecting coastlines for centuries not because we wanted to, but because we had to. Our country sits mostly below sea level, so we've become experts at working with water, not against it.
Here in Dubai, that same expertise has played a big role in shaping landmarks like the Palm. But our work isn’t limited to large-scale infrastructure. Increasingly, we’re helping individual property owners like villa residents to protect and maintain their own slice of the shoreline.
And this is where it gets relevant for you.
When you invest in a waterfront home, it’s not just about design or views. The environment around your property is constantly changing. Saltwater, waves, shifting sands all take a toll over time. That’s why shoreline maintenance matters. When done early and properly, it protects your home, prevents larger damage, and helps keep your property value strong.
Dutch contractors offer more than just dredging or beach shaping. We bring a mindset: plan ahead, act early, and build for the long term. Whether it’s reinforcing a private beach, building a small breakwater, or doing regular shoreline checks, we know how to get it done — efficiently and with minimal disruption.
The Palm Jumeirah’s recent upgrade is a reminder that even world-class developments need proper care. And it’s proof that Dutch know-how continues to deliver here in Dubai.
If you’re a villa owner and you’re wondering what it takes to maintain or improve your own shoreline setup, we’re here. Not just as contractors, but as Dutch professionals who take pride in delivering quiet, steady work that lasts.
