Beyond Expansion: Egor Maslennikov on Delivery, Community, and Object 1’s Next Chapter

Object 1 founder and Chairman Egor Maslennikov discusses driving the developer’s next phase.In this Q&A, Entrepreneur Middle East talks with Egor Maslennikov, founder and Chairman of Object 1, talks about scaling with discipline, building communities, and the strategy shaping the Dubai-based developer’s next chapter of growth.

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Object 1

Object 1 entered the UAE market in 2022 and has grown rapidly in a short period. Looking back, what have been the most defining milestones in the company’s journey so far?

“When we entered the UAE market, our ambition was not simply to launch projects but to establish a long-term development platform capable of contributing meaningfully to Dubai’s urban landscape. The first milestone was building the right foundation—assembling a team that shared our vision and creating the operational structure required to support sustainable growth.

Over the past few years, we have expanded significantly, launching more than 30 projects across some of Dubai’s fastest-growing residential communities like JVC and JVT.

However, I believe the most defining milestone is not the number of launches or sales achievements. It is the fact that we have reached the stage where our first developments are now being completed and handed over.Every developer can present a vision, a concept, or a master plan. The true test begins when residents receive their keys and start living in the spaces you have created. Reaching this point marks an important transition for Object 1—from a company focused on growth and expansion to one increasingly focused on delivery and long-term resident satisfaction.”

RA1N Residence and V1TER are the first projects to complete handover this year. What does this milestone represent for the company?

“For us, the handover of RA1N Residence and V1TER represents the beginning of a new chapter. The development process often focuses on planning, design, construction, and sales. Handover shifts the conversation entirely. Suddenly, every decision that was made throughout the development cycle is being experienced by real people in real time.

This milestone is important because it validates our ability to execute. At the same time, handovers create an invaluable learning opportunity. They allow us to understand how residents interact with the spaces, which amenities are used most frequently, and what aspects of the living experience matter most after occupancy. These insights become extremely valuable when planning future developments.”

Object 1

Can you tell us more about the concept behind RA1N Residence and what kind of lifestyle it was designed to offer residents?

“RA1N Residence was developed around the idea of creating a calm and balanced living environment within one of Dubai’s most dynamic residential districts.Modern city life is increasingly fast-paced, and we wanted to create a project that offers residents a sense of comfort, convenience, and well-being without sacrificing connectivity to the city.

The concept was inspired by the idea that a home should provide more than shelter—it should support everyday quality of life.The project combines contemporary architecture with thoughtfully designed communal areas and amenities that encourage both relaxation and social interaction.

Particular attention was given to creating spaces that integrate naturally into residents’ daily routines.As people continue to prioritize wellness, we believe developments such as RA1N Residence reflect the direction in which urban residential living is evolving.”

V1TER is another project you have in JVC. What was the vision behind this development?

“V1TER was created with a strong focus on community-oriented living and long-term value creation. Jumeirah Village Circle has evolved into one of Dubai’s most active residential destinations because it appeals to both end-users and investors.

When designing V1TER, we wanted to create a development that responded to both audiences while maintaining a strong emphasis on everyday livability.The project was designed around practical functionality, high-quality finishes, and shared amenities that contribute to a stronger sense of community.

Ergonomics was also carefully considered across both the apartments and common areas, with attention given to the smaller details that can make everyday living more comfortable. Landscaping and greenery were equally important to the design, helping to create a more natural and harmonious environment around the development.support a more complete lifestyle experience rather than simply offering residential units.

This also reflects a wider direction across Dubai, with increasing emphasis on creating greener, more comfortable and liveable urban environments.Our vision was to create a building that would remain relevant not only at launch but throughout its lifecycle.

That means prioritizing quality, efficient layouts, attractive communal spaces, and features that support long-term occupancy and resident satisfaction.”

How have these first handovers helped Object 1 better understand what end users and investors value most after a project is delivered?

“What these handovers have shown us is that people are not only buying square metres. They are choosing a place where they may raise a family, build routines, work, rest, meet neighbors and feel part of a community. This is an important lesson for any developer.

We have seen a growing demand from residents for developments that The UAE has become one of the most attractive places in the world for families and investors to settle. The country continues to invest in safety, infrastructure, education, quality of life and long-term residency, and this gives people confidence to build their future here.

With 2026 marked as the Year of Family, this direction becomes even more relevant. For Object 1, 2026 is also our year of handover, so these two ideas connect very naturally for us.Our responsibility is to create homes that support this kind of life.

This is why we do not look at amenities as additions, but as part of the living experience. Children’s areas, swimming pools, sports zones, lounges, wellness spaces and shared community areas all matter because they shape how residents use the building every day.After handover, you see whether a project truly works for people.

You see if families feel comfortable, if residents use the spaces, if the community feels alive. That is the real measure of success for us.”

Object 1

Object 1 has also announced its expansion into Abu Dhabi. Can you tell us about your recent developments there and why the capital is an important next step for the company?

“Abu Dhabi is a natural next step for Object 1. After becoming one of the top 15 developers in Dubai, we began looking at where our model could create long-term value next, and the capital was the clear direction. Abu Dhabi is planning decades ahead, with Economic Vision 2030 supporting diversification, regulation, quality of life and sustainable urban growth. This direction is very aligned with the kind of communities we want to build.

The market momentum also supports this decision. In 2025, Abu Dhabi recorded AED142 billion in real estate transactions, a 44% increase, while residential sales rose 67% to AED76 billion. At the same time, areas such as Al Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, Yas Island and Masdar City are strengthening the capital’s position as a destination for families, professionals and long-term investors.

Our first project in Abu Dhabi, A1LA Residence on Al Reem Island, reflects this strategy. It will include 171 units across one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as a limited collection of duplexes, with amenities designed around family living, wellbeing and community.

This follows our acquisition of four waterfront plots on Al Reem Island spanning more than 2 million sq ft, with a combined project value of AED4.5 billion.For us, Abu Dhabi is not a short-term opportunity. It is the beginning of a broader UAE growth strategy.”

With more than 20 projects, first handovers underway, and expansion into Abu Dhabi, what does the next stage of Object 1’s growth look like?

“The next phase is about maturity. The first chapter of our journey was focused on establishing the business and building momentum.

The second chapter is about strengthening delivery capabilities, refining our product offering, and continuing to elevate the quality of what we create. Today, Object 1 has evolved into a stable, full-cycle business, bringing project design, development and construction together within one holding company. This gives us greater control across the entire development process and allows us to continuously improve from one project to the next.

We will continue expanding our portfolio across the UAE while remaining disciplined in our approach. Growth is important, but sustainable growth is even more important. As we begin handing over more projects, our focus is not only on maintaining momentum but on strengthening every part of the business as we scale.

Our objective is not simply to build more projects—it is to build better projects, informed by the lessons we gain from every completed development. We also see significant opportunities in technology, sustainability, and wellness-focused design.

As cities evolve and resident expectations continue to change, developers must be prepared to adapt. Ultimately, our goal remains unchanged: to create developments that deliver lasting value for residents, investors, and the communities in which we build. The projects we are handing over today are only the beginning of that long-term vision.”

Object 1

Object 1 entered the UAE market in 2022 and has grown rapidly in a short period. Looking back, what have been the most defining milestones in the company’s journey so far?

“When we entered the UAE market, our ambition was not simply to launch projects but to establish a long-term development platform capable of contributing meaningfully to Dubai’s urban landscape. The first milestone was building the right foundation—assembling a team that shared our vision and creating the operational structure required to support sustainable growth.

Over the past few years, we have expanded significantly, launching more than 30 projects across some of Dubai’s fastest-growing residential communities like JVC and JVT.

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