Best Places to Live in Dubai For Families

Discover the best areas to live in Dubai with a family

Finding the best area to live in Dubai with a family is no easy task. After all, there are tons of options to choose from, with all of the developments springing up. The upside of having so many options though is that there’s a community for everyone.

To find a new home for your family, you need to consider your unique needs. For instance, are your kids young or old, do you drive or use public transportation? Where do you work? Do you prefer a calm neighborhood or a vibrant one? What’s your budget? What amenities do you need? All of this will factor into your decision.

While every family is different, we’ve rounded up some of the best places to live in Dubai with family based on popularity. These areas have many amenities such as parks, supermarkets, nearby schools and hospitals, and more.

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Arabian Ranches

4.2/5

About

This premium suburb by Emaar is one of the best residential areas in Dubai for families. Homes here exude luxury and are surrounded by lots of greenery and amenities.

Arabian Ranches is home to Arabian Ranches Golf Club, Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club, and multiple retail and dining options. You’ll also find schools and mosques here, ensuring everything you need is nearby.

Whether you decide to rent or buy a villa in Arabian Ranches, rest assured that you’ll be living in a holistic community that appeals to every member of the family.

Arabian Ranches is located along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and Al Qudra Road D63, close to Dubai Butterfly Garden and Motor City.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Villa prices starting from

For rent : 165,000 AED/year

For sale : 3,000,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

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Jumeirah

3.6/5

About

This neighborhood is a timeless favorite thanks to its waterfront location near Jumeirah Beach and Kite Beach, as well as the abundance of schools, restaurants, and clinics. Villas for rent in Jumeirah range from 3 to 6-bedroom units.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 52,000 AED/year

For sale : 2,150,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

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Mirdif

3.3/5

About

Another well-established neighborhood, Mirdif has been one of the best places to live for families for years thanks to its large villas and affordable prices.

Despite being located away from the city center, it has everything residents need nearby including schools, malls, and parks, most notably the massive Mushrif Park which is great for outdoor activities.

The villas for rent in Mirdif mainly range from 3 to 5-bedroom villas, though you might find a few 6-bedroom villas.

Those looking for apartments for rent in Mirdif can choose from studios to 4-bedroom units.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 45,000 AED/year

For sale : 597,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents

3/5
Personal review as a tenant -uptown mirdif residence
Janet Navarra, 9 years ago
Mirdif Tulip
I have been living in uptown for 3 years . Currently they are imposing charges for parking fee for visitors free for 2 hrs thereafter 10dhs from Monday to Sunda...Read more

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Al Furjan

4/5

About

Al Furjan is an extremely family-friendly area thanks to its calm ambiance, green spaces, and availability of villas, townhouses, and apartments, catering to families of different sizes and budgets.

Al Furjan is located next to Discovery Gardens and Ibn Battuta Mall, and has its own metro station. Moreover, it’s home to Arcadia Global School, The Arbor School, Jebel Ali Village Nursery and two community malls, Al Furjan Pavilion and Al Furjan West Pavilion.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 38,000 AED/year

For sale : 445,024 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents

4/5
The Fern Heights
Sheila Cua, 2 years ago
The Fern Heights
Area is very good, near Discovery Garden metro. Also there are supermarkets nearby. Building is not that much soundproof, i can hear the cars very loud at night...Read more
2/5
Poor facilities
Anna, 5 years ago
Freej Residence
Tap water is yellow on the first run of the faucet, after not using it for long hours. Pool has no temperature control. Always cold water. No gym, no playgroun...Read more
1/5
Poor Construction and Maintenance team
Xoxo, 2 years ago
Azizi Plaza
It’s not about maintenance the building has lots of leakage and flaws. Maintenance team is poor but building management is ok but they never responds but action...Read more
4/5
Amazing property
Niharika padwal, 2 years ago
Victoria Residency
It's an amazing property. Clean, maintained, parking, security, everything is upto the mark.
1/5
Bad Experience - Building is Not ready
Yasmine, 5 years ago
Topaz Avenue
I recently moved in to the building and I do NOT recommend anyone to consider moving in anytime before October. I am facing inconvenience and discomfort because...Read more
4/5
Rose 13,Al Furjan Dubai
Dr Aqsa Khalid, 2 years ago
Rose 13
Rose 13 is a new building with free chiller/pool and gym. No parking issue in the area. The maintenance staff is amazing and is just a call away. Its a very pea...Read more

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Jumeirah Lake Towers

3.9/5

About

JLT is one of the best places to live in Dubai for families looking for apartments. The highrise community is extremely walkable as it’s built around lakes with promenades.

Nearly every amenity is available too. The area is rich with restaurants and cafes, supermarkets, and beauty salons, and is served by two metro stations. The flats for rent in Jumeirah Lake Towers come on high floors with expansive city views.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 45,000 AED/year

For sale : 470,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

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DAMAC Hills

3.9/5

About

DAMAC Hills 1 and 2 are some of the best areas to live in Dubai with a family. These gated communities have all kinds of amenities families would need, along with affordable apartments, villas, and townhouses for sale and rent.

DAMAC Hills is home to the Trump International Golf Club which has an 18-hole golf course, a health club, swimming pools, fitness centers and restaurants.

Not only that, but you’ll also find water lagoons with water slides and trampolines in the community. It's a popular spot among people looking for affordable Dubai homes for sale.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 40,000 AED/year

For sale : 490,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents

3/5
Decent
Diane, 2 years ago
Carson
The building is good enough. Well-built and does what you need it to do. Good for tenants.

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Jumeirah Village Triangle

4/5

About

Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT) is one of the best affordable family areas in Dubai thanks to its calm atmosphere, prime location, and abundance of amenities like schools, hospitals, and supermarkets.

It’s home to Sunmarke School, Arcadia School and Jumeirah International Nursery, making it great for families with kids. The apartments and villas for sale in Jumeirah Village Triangle are more affordable than those in other areas.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 39,000 AED/year

For sale : 420,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents

5/5
Best location with largest garden in Dubai
Resident, 2 years ago
Mediterranean Villas
Location is amazing. It has schools, supermarkets malls and great community. Largest garden size in dubai.
3/5
Value for money
Ayman Alshraideh, 9 years ago
Green Park
A good value for money, a very nice community. Poor in terms of proximity to attractions and public transport.
4/5
Nice
Mirah, 9 years ago
Arabian Villas
Friendly environment with lots of activities provided. Co-operative security
4/5
Overall pretty amazing
Omar Farghal, 2 years ago
Al Jawhara Residences
The building looks reaallyy good inside and out. Although it offers only studios, the space is really good with good views all round. I have never seen a tower...Read more

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Jumeirah Village Circle

3.9/5

About

This popular community is one of the best places to live in Dubai for families thanks to its numerous facilities such as parks, schools, and supermarkets. It has about 33 parks, making it great for playing with kids and enjoying time outdoors.

Moreover, Circle Mall is a large community mall that has a variety of shops, restaurants, Spinneys and a Nesto Hypermarket. JVC is also home to JSS International School.

A wide variety of properties are available for sale and rent in Jumeirah Village Circle such as apartments, villas, and townhouses.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 38,000 AED/year

For sale : 410,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents

4/5
Alfa Residence is the best Building in JVC .
Atif Zubair, 9 years ago
Alfa Residence
Alfa Residence is the best Building in JVC .
4/5
Amazing & Family Friendly Building
Jwallan Pereira, 2 years ago
Sobha Daffodil
Been living for 3+ years and an amazing experience. •family friendly •cleanliness •security and FM staffs are helpful •close to malls and parks •quite neighborh...Read more
2/5
Parking
Muhammad, 9 years ago
Baynonah Business Centre
Kindly proper the parking facility
5/5
Friendly building
Javi, 2 years ago
Roxana Residences
Good building with friendly security and nice common facilities. Good apartments for investment or to live in
1/5
Smell of neighbours cooking
Izzi, 4 years ago
UniEstate Prime Tower
No Gym or pool. VERY bad air circulation system, the smell of the nighbours cooking is unstoppable. I wake up at 5.30 every morning by the smell of frying onion...Read more
4/5
Great building but water quality is not great
AG, 2 years ago
AKA Residence
AKA Residence is a great place for both families and bachelors. However, the water quality is not great on the higher floors. They do clean the water tank eve...Read more
2/5
poor
keerthi Dharma, 2 years ago
GMM Tower 1
1. Average apartment.n2. Spacious rooms. (2 BHK). n3. JVC has too much traffic during peak hours. n
3/5
Pretty good overall
Moath Abunaser, 2 years ago
Grand Heights
I have been in the building for a year, the facilities are okay, the gym needs to be improved. Its a modern building and good overall.
2/5
Not well maintained
Ahmed Khalil, 6 years ago
Laya Residences
The property is not well maintained. Frequent water leaks and lots of noise as the adjoining building is Atlantis staff accommodation. Their bus comes at midn...Read more
2/5
Issues with cleanliness
Fadwa, 3 years ago
Rose 10
This review is based on a one bedroom experience and most is relevant to the building itself Pros: 1- Nice colors finishings 2- Available markets around gives a...Read more

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Motor City

4.2/5

About

Motor City is a great option for those looking for affordable family areas in Dubai thanks to its spacious apartments for rent in Dubai and plenty of green spaces. The area has a calm atmosphere and is home to the Dubai Autodrome and First Avenue Mall. Apartments for rent in Motor City range from studios to 3-bedroom apartments.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 55,000 AED/year

For sale : 550,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents

5/5
Fantastic
Smita, 2 years ago
Oia Residence
Excellent building and fantastic surrounding. Everything like school, community park, play area, hospital, clinic, shopping within 300 m.

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DAMAC Hills

3.9/5

About

Damac Hills is a luxurious residential community located in Dubailand, developed by DAMAC Properties. The gated community is known for its upscale villas, townhouses, and apartments, surrounded by lush green landscapes and world-class amenities.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 40,000 AED/year

For sale : 490,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents

3/5
Decent
Diane, 2 years ago
Carson
The building is good enough. Well-built and does what you need it to do. Good for tenants.

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Arabian Ranches

4.2/5

About

Arabian Ranches is a premium gated villa community in Dubai that’s all about upscale living with a desert-chic vibe. Developed by Emaar Properties and launched back in 2004, it’s located in Wadi Al Safa 6 along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, perfectly placed near Dubai’s Global Village for those weekend adventures.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Villa prices starting from

For rent : 165,000 AED/year

For sale : 3,000,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

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Al Furjan

4/5

About

Al Furjan is a residential community in the Jebel Ali District developed by Nakheel. It offers a wide range of modern villas and apartments at reasonable prices. The peaceful neighborhood is a popular choice thanks to its amazing facilities and prime location.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 38,000 AED/year

For sale : 445,024 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents

1/5
Bad Experience - Building is Not ready
Yasmine, 5 years ago
Topaz Avenue
I recently moved in to the building and I do NOT recommend anyone to consider moving in anytime before October. I am facing inconvenience and discomfort because...Read more
4/5
Rose 13,Al Furjan Dubai
Dr Aqsa Khalid, 2 years ago
Rose 13
Rose 13 is a new building with free chiller/pool and gym. No parking issue in the area. The maintenance staff is amazing and is just a call away. Its a very pea...Read more
2/5
Poor facilities
Anna, 5 years ago
Freej Residence
Tap water is yellow on the first run of the faucet, after not using it for long hours. Pool has no temperature control. Always cold water. No gym, no playgroun...Read more
4/5
The Fern Heights
Sheila Cua, 2 years ago
The Fern Heights
Area is very good, near Discovery Garden metro. Also there are supermarkets nearby. Building is not that much soundproof, i can hear the cars very loud at night...Read more
4/5
Amazing property
Niharika padwal, 2 years ago
Victoria Residency
It's an amazing property. Clean, maintained, parking, security, everything is upto the mark.
1/5
Poor Construction and Maintenance team
Xoxo, 2 years ago
Azizi Plaza
It’s not about maintenance the building has lots of leakage and flaws. Maintenance team is poor but building management is ok but they never responds but action...Read more

Learn more about Al Furjan Discover the available properties

Mirdif

3.3/5

About

Mirdif is among the most popular residential areas in Dubai. It's a calm, family-friendly suburb with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. Its reasonable rentals, many amenities, and peaceful atmosphere all contribute to its popularity.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 45,000 AED/year

For sale : 597,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents

3/5
Personal review as a tenant -uptown mirdif residence
Janet Navarra, 9 years ago
Mirdif Tulip
I have been living in uptown for 3 years . Currently they are imposing charges for parking fee for visitors free for 2 hrs thereafter 10dhs from Monday to Sunda...Read more

Learn more about Mirdif Discover the available properties

The Springs

4.5/5

About

This gated villa community is favoured by young couples with children. The townhouses and villas provide the perfect antidote to the towering skyscrapers outside the community. The Springs Souk services most of your essential shopping and dining requirements.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Villa prices starting from

For rent : 120,000 AED/year

For sale : 2,750,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents

3/5
Need area improvement
Elena Al Sharif, 9 years ago
Springs 2
The building is really huge but they keep maintain the wall inside the house is really thin we can hear our neighbors voice
4/5
Lived in Springs 7 for nineteen years
Arvinder Kochhar, 2 years ago
Springs 7
We have lived in Springs 7 since 2005. It has been a great experience throughout. Emaar has done a brilliant job in consistently maintaining very high levels of...Read more
4/5
Springs 6 is great place
Abed, 6 years ago
Springs 6
Springs 6 is great place, emaar now open new carrefour, the security in springs 6 is excellent they work day and night, the lack is fantastic great view for mar...Read more
5/5
Springs 1 - The perfect location
Dr S.Choudry, 4 years ago
Springs 1
Our children have grown up living in this community. The convenience of cycling to school coupled with the now rebuilt Meadows Village access has proved for us...Read more
4/5
Springs 5
Rad, 9 years ago
Springs 5
Great location, close to Marina, and Jumeirah for a good value for money
3/5
Nice spring
Mahra, 9 years ago
Springs 10
Good to have a property in spring
4/5
Springs 1E
Tanweer Khan, 3 years ago
Springs 9
The view is stunning. It’s a well-maintained property and has the second biggest lake among all the Springs communities. The property is in excellent condition.

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Jumeirah

3.6/5

About

Jumeirah is a coastal area in Dubai that has long been a crowd favorite. It’s known for its breathtaking sea views and upscale lifestyle. Divided into Jumeirah 1, 2, and 3, the area blends luxury living with laid-back beachside charm. It’s well connected to main highways like Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), Al Wasl Road (D92), and Jumeirah Beach Road (D94), so getting around the city is a breeze.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 52,000 AED/year

For sale : 2,150,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Learn more about Jumeirah Discover the available properties

Jumeirah Village Triangle

4/5

About

Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT) is a lively residential neighborhood located in the heart of Dubai, with a diverse range of villas, townhouses, and apartments. Developed by Nakheel Properties, this community is recognized for its peaceful atmosphere and family-oriented environment. The community is designed with a variety of green spaces, parks, and modern amenities, promoting a well-rounded lifestyle.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 39,000 AED/year

For sale : 420,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents

5/5
Best location with largest garden in Dubai
Resident, 2 years ago
Mediterranean Villas
Location is amazing. It has schools, supermarkets malls and great community. Largest garden size in dubai.
4/5
Overall pretty amazing
Omar Farghal, 2 years ago
Al Jawhara Residences
The building looks reaallyy good inside and out. Although it offers only studios, the space is really good with good views all round. I have never seen a tower...Read more
3/5
Value for money
Ayman Alshraideh, 9 years ago
Green Park
A good value for money, a very nice community. Poor in terms of proximity to attractions and public transport.
4/5
Nice
Mirah, 9 years ago
Arabian Villas
Friendly environment with lots of activities provided. Co-operative security

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Jumeirah Village Circle

3.9/5

About

Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) is a popular residential community in Dubai developed by Nakheel. It attracts various demographics, including families, singles, and couples thanks to its many amenities, prime location, and reasonable prices.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 38,000 AED/year

For sale : 410,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents

4/5
Alfa Residence is the best Building in JVC .
Atif Zubair, 9 years ago
Alfa Residence
Alfa Residence is the best Building in JVC .
4/5
Amazing & Family Friendly Building
Jwallan Pereira, 2 years ago
Sobha Daffodil
Been living for 3+ years and an amazing experience. •family friendly •cleanliness •security and FM staffs are helpful •close to malls and parks •quite neighborh...Read more
2/5
Parking
Muhammad, 9 years ago
Baynonah Business Centre
Kindly proper the parking facility
5/5
Friendly building
Javi, 2 years ago
Roxana Residences
Good building with friendly security and nice common facilities. Good apartments for investment or to live in
1/5
Smell of neighbours cooking
Izzi, 4 years ago
UniEstate Prime Tower
No Gym or pool. VERY bad air circulation system, the smell of the nighbours cooking is unstoppable. I wake up at 5.30 every morning by the smell of frying onion...Read more
4/5
Great building but water quality is not great
AG, 2 years ago
AKA Residence
AKA Residence is a great place for both families and bachelors. However, the water quality is not great on the higher floors. They do clean the water tank eve...Read more
2/5
poor
keerthi Dharma, 2 years ago
GMM Tower 1
1. Average apartment.n2. Spacious rooms. (2 BHK). n3. JVC has too much traffic during peak hours. n
3/5
Pretty good overall
Moath Abunaser, 2 years ago
Grand Heights
I have been in the building for a year, the facilities are okay, the gym needs to be improved. Its a modern building and good overall.
2/5
Not well maintained
Ahmed Khalil, 6 years ago
Laya Residences
The property is not well maintained. Frequent water leaks and lots of noise as the adjoining building is Atlantis staff accommodation. Their bus comes at midn...Read more
2/5
Issues with cleanliness
Fadwa, 3 years ago
Rose 10
This review is based on a one bedroom experience and most is relevant to the building itself Pros: 1- Nice colors finishings 2- Available markets around gives a...Read more

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Jumeirah Lake Towers

3.9/5

About

Jumeirah Lake Towers, also known as JLT, is among the most vibrant and popular communities in Dubai. It’s characterised by man-made lakes that are surrounded by skyscrapers, enabling its residents to enjoy waterfront living.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 45,000 AED/year

For sale : 470,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Learn more about Jumeirah Lake Towers Discover the available properties

Motor City

4.2/5

About

One of Dubai’s best budget communities for families, Motor City offers spacious apartments in lush surroundings at reasonable prices. With little traffic, a number of play areas, and community pools, it's no wonder many families are attracted to it.

Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 55,000 AED/year

For sale : 550,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents

5/5
Fantastic
Smita, 2 years ago
Oia Residence
Excellent building and fantastic surrounding. Everything like school, community park, play area, hospital, clinic, shopping within 300 m.

Learn more about Motor City Discover the available properties

FAQ

The best places to live in Dubai for a family are:

Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT)
DAMAC Hills
Arabian Ranches
Mirdif
Al Furjan
Jumeirah Lake Towers
Motor City

Dubai is great for families thanks to its safety, diversity, and abundance of reputed schools, amenities, healthcare facilities, and entertainment options.

On average, a monthly salary of AED 22,160 to 37,460 is recommended for a family of four to cover essentials like housing, schools, groceries, leisure, and transportation.