Nakheel is a real estate developer based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The company was founded in 2002 and is known for developing a number of iconic projects in Dubai, including the Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island shaped like a palm tree; the World, a series of artificial islands in the shape of the world map; and the Jumeirah Islands, a residential development featuring man-made lakes and waterways. In addition to its residential developments, Nakheel also has a portfolio of commercial, retail, and hospitality properties. The company is owned by the government of Dubai and is a part of the Dubai World group of companies.