Dholera Smart City Construction Updates 2025: India’s First Greenfield Smart City Gains Momentum

Table of Contents
- Recent Construction Milestones in Dholera
- Dholera Smart City Phases and Timeline
- Infrastructure and Connectivity Projects
- Residential and Industrial Development Status
- Investment Trends and ROI Potential
- Expert Commentary and Builder Trust
- FAQs
Dholera Smart City in Gujarat is experiencing rapid infrastructure and construction progress in 2025, including major milestones like the activation of ABCD Building, expressway work, plug-and-play industrial zones, and Dholera International Airport updates. Positioned as India’s first and largest greenfield smart city under the DMIC corridor, Dholera is attracting investors, NRIs, and developers with its Phase-1 readiness, high ROI potential, and 100% RERA-approved plots.

Recent Construction Milestones in Dholera

Dholera Smart City has entered a critical execution phase in 2025 with major physical progress visible across core infrastructure components:
- ABCD Building Operational: The city’s administrative and command center is fully functional, managing smart infrastructure systems.
- Plug-and-Play Industrial Plots Ready: Over 5,600 acres of activation area have been developed with internal roads, water supply, ICT, and power.
- Expressway Progress: Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway work is over 60% complete as of Q1 2025.
- 6-Lane Roads, Streetlights & Water Drainage: More than 70% of core urban infrastructure is ready.
- International Airport Update: Dholera International Airport’s first phase construction is underway after receiving key environmental and MoCA clearances.
Dholera Smart City Phases and Timeline
Dholera is divided into development phases:
- Phase 1 (2020–2026): Covers 22.5 sq. km of the Activation Area; 80% progress as of early 2025.
- Phase 2 (2026–2032): Will expand infrastructure towards the central business district and residential clusters.
- Full Completion Target: By 2040, the city aims to be home to over 2 million residents and become India’s largest planned smart metropolis.

Infrastructure and Connectivity Projects

Expressway and Metro:
- Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway: 109 km project by NHAI with expected delivery by 2026.
- Dholera Metro Rail: Approved 35.7 km route from Ahmedabad to Dholera with 20 proposed stations.
Utilities:
- 440 MLD water treatment plant and 50 MLD sewage facility operational in Phase 1.
- 250 MW solar park approved; to power the smart grid.
- Substations and underground cabling nearly 85% complete.
Residential and Industrial Development Status
Residential Plots: NA, NOC & title-clear projects by GIDB, SmartHomes, etc., with possession by 2026–27.
Industrial Growth: 130+ approvals in EV, logistics, semiconductors & defense.
Rental Zones: Govt. pushing PPP model for affordable housing & co-living.

Investment Trends and ROI Potential


Land Prices in Dholera Smart City (2023 vs 2025)
Zone / Area | 2023 Price (INR/sq.yd) | 2025 Price (INR/sq.yd) |
Activation Area | ₹6,000 | ₹12,500 |
Residential Zone | ₹3,500 | ₹7,800 |
Industrial Zone | ₹2,800 | ₹9999 to 15000 |
- Projected ROI: 40–60% in 2 years for early-stage residential plot investors.
- NRI Interest Surge: 35% spike in NRI bookings in 2024-25 owing to improved connectivity and IT-SEZ policies.
Expert Commentary and Builder Trust
“Dholera is no longer just a concept; it is a reality now. With on-ground infrastructure almost complete in Phase 1, the project has moved from promise to performance,” says Arvind Mehta, Urban Development Analyst.
- Developer Trust: Only developers with NA (Non-Agricultural) land, valid NOCs, and title-clear documents are being allotted plots in residential zones.
Frequently Asked Questions – Dholera Smart City 2025
1. What is the latest construction update in Dholera Smart City?
As of 2025, the ABCD Building is fully operational, the Dholera Expressway is nearly 60% complete, and residential plots are being handed over to investors and buyers.
2. Is Dholera International Airport under construction?
Yes. Construction of the first runway and passenger terminal has begun. Phase-1 of the airport is scheduled for completion by 2027.
3. Are residential plots in Dholera NA, NOC, and title-clear approved?
Yes. All active residential plot developments in Dholera are allotted only to developers with NA (Non-Agricultural) land, valid NOCs, and title-clear documentation to ensure legal transparency and buyer trust.
4. What is the expected ROI from investing in Dholera in 2025?
Investors can expect a projected 40–60% ROI over the next 2 years, driven by massive infrastructure development and early-stage property appreciation.
5. When will Dholera be fully livable?
Phase-1 will become livable by 2026, with essential amenities. Full-scale urban livability with smart infrastructure is expected between 2028 and 2030.