Are you looking for the best place to live in Dubai to settle in? If you are still unfamiliar with Dubai, then you will be surprised at how many residential communities exist within the city. In addition, many people are moving to Dubai nowadays. Mostly because the city has become a constantly growing economic hub, also, it features various world-class amenities and leisure facilities for its residents. So, explore these top communities in Dubai, along with their locations, features, and more.
- International City
- Dubai Marina
- Al Barari
- Bur Dubai
- Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City – District 1
- Dubai Creek Harbour
- Downtown Dubai
- Arabian Ranches
- Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT)
- Jumeirah Lake Towers
- FAQ
Best Place to Live in Dubai – Top 10 Areas
This list includes the top 10 places to live in Dubai – however, it does not mean these are the only ones. The areas listed below are hand picked based on how often people search for them, and their popularity. In addition, these areas vary between the most expensive place in Dubai to live as well as the most affordable areas.
1. International City
First of all, International City is a massive residential development built by Nakheel. This community stretches for 8 million square metres to accommodate over 60,000 residents. What makes International City unique is its architectural structure. The area is made up of ten clusters inspired by various countries from across the globe. These clusters include the England Cluster, France Cluster, and Morocco Cluster amongst others.
In addition, if you are looking for the cheapest place to live in Dubai – then International City would be at the top options. The area’s buildings are of low-rise nature with excellent amenities. Many of the properties here consist of studios as well as 1 or 2-bedroom apartments. Thus making this residential area the best place to live in Dubai for singles or couples. Additionally, you can easily find apartments for rent in International City – whether furnished or unfurnished.
- Location: Al Warsan region, near highways E311 and E44
- Features:
- Near Centrepoint and Etisalat by E& metro stations
- Serviced by bus line number 310
- Each cluster has different themed buildings
- Dragon Mart residents within the area
- Close to Silicon Oasis City Oasis 2 and its amenities
- The city has over 20 grocery stores spread across it
- Each cluster has fitness centres and grocery stores
- Clusters feature play area for children
- The area is home to various restaurants and cafes
- Average property prices:
- Apartment rent prices: AED 27,000 – AED 105,000 yearly
- Villa rent prices: AED 113,000 yearly
- Apartment sale prices: AED 276,000 – AED 2,852,000
- Villa sale prices: AED 1,447,000
2. Dubai Marina
Secondly, Dubai Marina is one of the city’s most popular destinations. Mainly because it is a vibrant waterfront community with residential options and entertainment venues, this high-rise district was established back in 2003. In addition, a canal was manufactured within its heart, stretching for 3 kilometres into the Arabian Gulf. Also, it is worth noting that Emaar Properties was behind that breathtaking destination.
Moreover, seeking the best place to live in Dubai Marina will put you in front of various residential towers. For example, the area is home to Marina Gate, Elite Residence, and Damac Heights amongst other luxurious towers in Dubai Marina.
- Location: Interchange 5, between Jebel Ali Port and Dubai Internet City
- Features:
- It has Dubai Marina Walk, which is a tourist hotspot
- Various hotels and restaurants
- Dubai Harbour resides within it
- Easy accessibility to the city’s metro network
- It is home to Pier 7, one of Dubai’s biggest restaurants
- The area offers direct access to swimming zones and watersports
- Many cruise ships take off from its harbour
- Average property prices:
- Apartment rent prices: AED 74,000 – AED 1,400,000
- Villa rent prices: AED 484,000 – AED 948,000
- Penthouse rent prices: AED 359,000 – 999,000
- Apartment sale prices: AED 980,000 – AED 14,817,000
- Villa sale prices: AED 12,161,000 – AED 18,995,000
- Penthouse sale prices: AED 7,900,000 – AED 14,879,000
3. Al Barari
One of the good places to live in Dubai is the Al Barari residential area. Many people choose to settle here to escape Dubai’s urban jungle nature and find a more natural and green community. In fact, the word “Al Barari” means a prairie of a vast stretch of grassland, trees, and green bushes. Thus, this community is an eco-friendly and sustainable one that is stretching for 15.3 million square feet.
Furthermore, Al Barari consists of six sub-communities which are: Seventh Heaven, The Nest, Ashjar, The Reserve, The Residences, and The Neighbourhood. All of which feature a picturesque green landscape and access to various amenities. Furthermore, this area is home to “Greenworks Garden”, a botanical garden that is home to more than 500 types of plants, lakes, and freshwater streams.
- Location: between Al Khail Road (E44) and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311)
- Features:
- Various dining venues such as the Farm, the Mill, and Red Tomato Pizza
- Many retail hubs to shop at within the community
- Nurseries and play areas for children
- The community features yoga shalas, treatment rooms, and meditation gardens
- Many designated areas for physical activity, including cycling tracks and fitness centres
- Tens of gardens and parks with various plants and bushes
- The housing includes apartments and villas
- Average property prices:
- Apartment rent prices: AED 111,000 – AED 530,000
- Villa rent prices: AED 165,000 – AED 952,750
- Apartment sale prices: AED 1,025,000 – AED 7,842,000
- Villa sale prices: AED 1,701,000 – AED 1,701,000
4. Bur Dubai
In addition, If you are looking for affordable places to live in Dubai that bring forth a true Emirati experience. Then you must explore the heritage-preserving area of Bur Dubai. This neighbourhood is the first original Emirati settlement. While it has developed greatly over the years, it still holds on to the old traditions, values, and architecture. Bur Dubai is home to many historical sites that tell the story of how Dubai developed into the great city it is today. These historical sites include renovated historic buildings, temples, and the Ruler’s Court and museums. One of the most popular historical destinations in the area is the Al Fahidi Historical District – also known as Al Bastakiya.
- Location: the western side of the Dubai Creek
- Features:
- Oud Metha, Al Mankhool, Al Jaddaf, Culture Village, Al Karama, Al Raffa, and Umm Hurair are sub-communities of Bur Dubai
- The area offers many amenities, such as schools and healthcare clinics
- Many leisure facilities are within Bur Dubai, including restaurants and parks
- Many Shows (traditional boats) roam across Dubai Creek from Bur Dubai
- Several mid-rise properties for rent and sale
- Studio apartments and 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments are available for rent and sale
- A wide range of commercial properties for offices, business, retail, and showrooms
- Dubai metro red and green lines have stations passing by Bur Dubai
- Ferry transportation is available to Bur Dubai
- Many traditional open-air markets, such as textile souk and Meena Bazaar
- Average property prices:
- Apartment rent prices: AED 40,000 – AED 182,000
- Villa rent prices: AED 331,000
- Villa sale prices: AED 2,000,000 on average
5. Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City – District 1
Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City is the most expensive place to live in Dubai amongst others. This is an extremely extravagant residential area that is home to some of Dubai’s most luxurious and expensive properties. Here, you will find sumptuous villas along with world-class amenities and global-standards facilities.
Moreover, at Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City – a wide variety of properties is available. This includes lavish mansions designed to perfect sophistication along with signature plots, waterfront penthouses, and private distinctive villas. Most importantly, living here ensures closeness to various of Dubai’s most famous landmarks and attractions.
- Location: near highway E44
- Features:
- A luxurious family-friendly gated community
- Close distance to Downtown Dubai and Dubai Mall
- Residents and high-net-worth individuals
- Premium waterfront residences at Crystal Lagoon
- Impeccable architecture with massive spaces
- Breathtaking luscious green landscapes
- Various shopping and entertainment options
- Fully equipped gyms, children’s play areas, cafes and restaurants
- Designated entertainment areas for outdoor movies, jogging tracks, and watersports
- Average property prices: AED 3 million – AED 20 million for villas and apartments
6. Dubai Creek Harbour
Dubai Creek Harbour is a residential destination with a magical waterfront district. Settling down here is a dream come true for many people. Here, residents will enjoy living in luxurious properties with scenic and panoramic views. In addition, while this is a somewhat isolated living district, it still is a few minutes away from Dubai’s finest attractions. Hence making it the best place to live in Dubai for tourists who want to explore the city.
Additionally, the housing options here vary between apartments and villas. Regardless, all of these properties feature lavish finishings, massive spaces, and endless amenities to ensure your comfort. The residential space alone is estimated at 7.4 million square metres, 711,399 square metres are for apartments. And 500,00 square metres are dedicated to parks and open spaces.
- Location: Ras Al Khor, near D26
- Features:
- Close distance to Dubai Square and Festival City
- More than 29 residential destinations to choose from – including apartment towers and villas
- Many residential towers feature gyms, saunas, basement parking, and rooftop swimming pools
- Apartments here vary between 1, 2, and 3 bedrooms with fully equipped kitchens, marble bathrooms, and spacious rooms
- Many fine dining venues reside within the area, along with various retail hubs
- The entertainment here features cultural attractions, waterfront events, and family-friendly activities
- Average property prices: prices start from AED 1,621,888 for villas and apartments
7. Downtown Dubai
Another one of the most expensive places to live in Dubai is Downtown Dubai – which does not come as a surprise. Many expats tend to reside here as it offers freehold estates for them to buy. Thus making it the high-performing market it is today. Also, Downtown Dubai fosters an ultra-luxurious lifestyle. It is an exclusive part of the city where many famous bloggers and influencers live. So, expect to see many fancy cars, designer brands, and over-the-top entertainment venues.
Downtown Dubai acts as a centre point, connecting many of the city’s most prominent areas together. This dynamic location is one of the key factors to its expensive nature. Furthermore, many magnificent residential towers in Downtown Dubai offer apartments for sale and rent. These residential towers include One Residence, Rixos, W Residences, Opera Grand, and Emaar Burj Crown.
- Location: Sheikh Zayed Road
- Features:
- Close to Dubai’s finest shopping destination: the Dubai Mall and its luxurious fashion avenue
- Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain are only a few minutes away
- Many high-end 5-star hotels are within the area
- It is home to Souk Al Bahar, which has more than 100 shops and 20 restaurants and cafes
- The area is near the Dubai Opera House
- Downtown Dubai has more apartments than villas
- Here you can enjoy a vibrant nightlife
8. Arabian Ranches
When it comes to the best place for expats to live in Dubai, Arabian Ranches comes at the top of the list. This is one of Dubai’s finest gated communities, and it opened its doors to residents back in 2004. Since then, it has been a residential hub alluring people to settle down within it. It has done so successfully due to its various amenities which include a lavish gold club, polo club and equestrian club.
In addition, it is worth noting that this is primarily a villa community. Featuring private 2-bedroom villas and up to 7-bedroom villas. In short words, this is a suburban haven in Dubai that is both lavish and family-friendly.
- Location: near highway E311
- Features:
- Many service facilities, such as schools, clinics, and supermarkets
- Various leisure establishments, including restaurants, parks, and a dog park
- Surroundings are filled with green stretches of grass and trees
- A safe, family-friendly gated villa community to build long-lasting roots
- Average property prices:
- Villa rent prices: AED 170,000 – AED 885,000
- Villa sale prices: AED 2,650,000 – AED 17,894,000
9. Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT)
Furthermore, one of the best places for families to live in Dubai is Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT). This community is tailored to perfection for mid-income families. Featuring endless amenities to ensure everything you may need is within walking distance. This includes shopping centres, schools, salons and barber shops.
- Location: alongside Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
- Features:
- Home to Jumeirah Park Pavilion
- Safe and cosy for families to settle in
- In the heart of Dubai, ensuring easy accessibility to the rest of the city
- Average property prices:
- Apartment rent prices: AED 45,000 – AED 219,000
- Villa rent prices: AED 128,000 – AED 322,000
- Apartment sale prices: AED 544,000 – AED 3,418,000
- Villa sale prices: AED 1,594,000 – AED 6,193,000
10. Jumeirah Lake Towers
Lastly, Jumeirah Lake Towers is a massive residential hub with 26 clusters. It is the best place to live in Dubai for couples because it offers various studio apartments along with 1-bedroom apartments. Each cluster has various residential towers, most of which are made up of 35 to 45 stories. Living here ensures a comfortable and lavish lifestyle with easy accessibility to multiple amenities such as supermarkets, entertainment venues, and more.
- Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, next to Dubai Marina
- Features:
- It is home to Almas Tower, which has 68 stories
- A 55,000 square metre park resides within the area
- Couples will love the lakeside promenades
- Many amenities, such as restaurants, beauty salons, and more
- Average property prices:
- Apartment rent prices: AED 61,000 – AED 394,000
Apartment sale prices: AED 699,000 – AED 15,000,000
FAQ
Yes, the city still offers many other residential areas, such as Motor City, Al Sufouh, Al Warqa, Jebel Ali Village, and more.
In conclusion, finding the best place to live in Dubai is not a complex matter. The city is filled with residential communities for everyone. Whether you are single, a newlywed, or a parent with children. You will find various areas to accommodate you comfortably. In addition, don’t miss out on the many similar guides on Property Finder’s blog.
