Index Tower
4.3/57 Reviews
DIFC
About DIFC
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is a globally recognized financial hub located just off Sheikh Zayed Road in central Dubai. Launched in 2004, this 110-hectare free zone operates under an independent legal framework based on English common law and is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). Home to over 3,000 registered companies, DIFC serves as a gateway to the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) markets, making it a preferred base for banks, investment firms, and professional service providers.
While DIFC is best known for its commercial role, it has evolved into a high-end residential and lifestyle destination. The district features luxury apartments, award-winning restaurants, art galleries, boutique hotels, and regular cultural events. With its cosmopolitan atmosphere, direct access to the Dubai Metro, and proximity to Downtown Dubai, DIFC offers a unique blend of business and leisure living in the city's heart.
Key Highlights
- Financial free zone regulated by DFSA
- Independent legal system through DIFC Courts
- Home to over 3,000 international firms and financial institutions
- Offers 50-year tax-free guarantees on corporate income and profits
- Residential towers, art galleries, Michelin-starred restaurants, and luxury hotels
- Direct metro access via the Financial Centre Metro Station on the Red Line
Location and Transportation
DIFC is located along Sheikh Zayed Road between Downtown Dubai and Trade Centre. It offers direct connectivity via the Financial Centre Metro Station, which links the area to Dubai Marina, Business Bay, Dubai International Airport, and many other key areas. Sheikh Zayed Road allows fast access to major districts such as Dubai International Airport, Dubai Mall, and Dubai World Trade Centre.
DIFC has a prime central location on Sheikh Zayed Road near Downtown Dubai and World Trade Center.
Properties in DIFC
DIFC is known for its luxury residential offerings, focusing on high-rise apartments and penthouses. Units range from studios to three-bedroom layouts, offering views of the Burj Khalifa, Zabeel, or Sheikh Zayed Road.
Apartments in DIFC are known for their luxury and stunning views. They often come with floor-to-ceiling windows, modern finishes, and shared amenities such as rooftop pools, gyms, concierge services, and secure parking. Apartments in DIFC range in size from 490 to 1,800 sqft, with an average of 1,000 sqft.
While the area primarily attracts finance, law, and consulting professionals, it appeals to investors seeking high-yield centrally located property in a stable, regulated environment.
Real Estate Market Snapshot
- Studio: AED 75K–135K/year
- 1-Bedroom: AED 95K–260K/year
- 2-Bedroom: AED 150K–280K/year
- 3-Bedroom: AED 250K–450K/year
Rental prices in DIFC are generally 15–30% higher than neighboring communities such as Business Bay or Downtown Dubai. While Business Bay offers more affordable options for similar apartment sizes, DIFC commands a premium due to its prime location, luxury towers, and proximity to major financial institutions.
- Studio: AED 1,349,000 – 2,200,000
- 1-Bedroom: AED 1,600,000 – 4,500,000+
- 2-Bedroom: AED 2,400,000 – 7,800,000+
- 3-Bedroom: AED 4,300,000 – 15,800,000
Price trends
Studio apartments rented in DIFC
The data displayed is based on average prices and sizes of all apartments in DIFC.
Average prices
| Type | Avg. Price (AED/ year) |
|---|---|
| Studio | 80,000 |
| 1 Bedroom | 140,000 |
| 2 Bedrooms | 212,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | 326,000 |
| 4 Bedrooms | 562,000 |
The data displayed is based on average prices and sizes of all apartments in DIFC.
Recent rental transactions
No result matching search
Sorry, we currently have no transaction matching your search. You could try the new search criteria.
Explore properties in DIFC that match your interest
See All
Average rental yield: ≈ 5.5%–6.5% annually – higher than central areas like Downtown (4–5%).
Ongoing developments, including new luxury residential projects and premium office expansions, are expected to further enhance property values and long-term ROI. For investors seeking a central location with strong rental demand, prestige, and capital growth potential, DIFC offers a compelling mix of stability and future upside.
Lifestyle in DIFC
DIFC offers a polished city lifestyle that suits professionals who want to live close to work without giving up their quality of life. Residents have easy access to restaurants, cafes, galleries, salons, gyms, and daily services all within walking distance. The district's layout makes it easy to move between homes, offices, and shops, especially with Gate Avenue acting as the main pedestrian link through the area.
Despite being a business hub, DIFC has a surprisingly residential feel, especially in the evenings when restaurants fill up and art galleries host openings. With regular wellness pop-ups, networking events, and art installations, the area blends work and life in a way few other districts in Dubai can match. It's not a typical residential neighborhood, but it offers a unique balance for those who prefer an active, central lifestyle with everything nearby.
Pros & Cons of Living in DIFC
- Prime central location: Easy access to Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, and Sheikh Zayed Road.
- Prestigious address: Iconic financial hub with a luxury lifestyle image.
- Luxury apartments: Modern high-rise buildings with premium finishes and amenities.
- Vibrant lifestyle: Close to restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and cultural events.
- High security and well-maintained community: Professional management ensures safety and cleanliness.
- Excellent connectivity: Near Metro stations, major roads, and future Blue Line extension.
- Strong rental and resale value: High demand among professionals and investors.
Comparison with Other Dubai Communities
Compared to other areas, DIFC offers a premium, central-luxury lifestyle with high-end residential and commercial spaces, making it ideal for professionals and investors seeking prestige and strong rental demand. However, it comes with higher costs, limited green spaces, and fewer family-oriented amenities compared to communities like Dubai Marina or Jumeirah, which may offer more schools, parks, and villa options.
How Ras Al Khor Compares to Nearby Communities?
While DIFC appeals to professionals and investors seeking a prestigious, central location with luxury apartments, Business Bay offers more varied residential options and slightly more affordable urban living.
| Feature | DIFC | Business Bay |
|---|---|---|
| Property Type | Luxury apartments, limited freehold | Apartments & some low-rise buildings |
| Lifestyle | Corporate, high-end, cosmopolitan | Urban, mixed-use, slightly more affordable |
| Commute to Downtown | 5–10 min | 10–15 min |
| Rental Prices | Highest among the two | 10–20% lower than DIFC |
| Investment Potential | High due to limited supply & prestige | Moderate – good yields, more affordable entry |
| Amenities & Lifestyle | Fine dining, art galleries, financial hubs | Cafes, retail, some leisure options |
Amenities in DIFC
DIFC is designed to support both residential and business needs. Most buildings have supermarkets, salons, medical centers, and other everyday services within walking distance.
Latest Reviews in DIFC - What Local Says
| 🏡 Family Perspective | --------- | 🏢 Business Perspective |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance & Cleanliness: ★★★★★ | Maintenance / Infrastructure: ★★★★★ | |
| Connectivity & Commute: ★★★★★ | Accessibility / Roads: ★★★★★ | |
| Safety & Security: ★★★★★ | Staff / Security: ★★★★★ | |
| Public Transport Access: ★★★★☆ | Traffic Management: ★★★★☆ | |
| Noise & Surroundings: ★★★★☆ | Noise Levels: ★★★★☆ | |
| Retail & Amenities: ★★★★★ | Parking / Loading Areas: ★★★★☆ |
Top Community Experts
Looking to rent or buy in DIFC? Explore top real estate agents in DIFC who specialize in apartments, off-plan developments, and investment opportunities across the community.
DIFC stands for Dubai International Financial Centre. It is a special economic zone in central Dubai that serves as a financial hub for the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region.
What Locals say about DIFC
Convenience haven
An absolute convenience haven! The tower boasts a 24-hour supermarket, laundry services, a barber shop, a variety of restaurants, a cozy coffee shop, and even a spa—all within the confines of the building! What more could a tenant ask for? Well, how about a fantastic pool, a well-equipped gym, and a barbecue area offering breathtaking views! The tower goes above and beyond with expansive closed gardens and serene seating areas on every seventh floor, providing perfect spots for tenants to relax even in the scorching summer weather. Its prime location ensures easy access to DIFC and Sheikh Zayed Road, merely a one-minute walk to DIFC and a quick five-minute stroll to Emirates Towers Metro Station. The high floors offer a mesmerizing view of DIFC.
Read moreAfter the renovation, trully one of the best buildings for living experience in DIFC
We are living in this building from 2022. Before we used to live in Index Tower and Burj Daman. And was always told by the real estate agents that Sky Gardens is not considered as a good building. However after more than one year of living here, we can tell that the living experience in Sky Gardens is really the best in DIFC. The consierge and security guys are very-very helpful and super friendly. The maintenance and cleaning is at the highest level. The building has been recently renovated with very luxurious finishing: new lobby, new elevators, all the wall painted. The location of this builing is one of the best ! It is just in front of the Four Seasons hotel and all the top restaurants. Just to cross the street ( compare to the Index towers where we had to walk through the shopping mall ( empty at night ) for 15-20 min to reach the main area of DIFC ) . And the general services of Sky Gardens provide for most demanding lifestyle. For example: - you can order a variety of fresh juices, smoothies, salads, fusion food just by What's App from the in-building cafe and they will bring it to your door within 5 - 10 minutes. Very useful compare to usual deliveries in Dubai. - there are three in-building wellness and beauty salons that provide various types of massages and treatments - in-building laundry service to your door - 24/7 supermarket - the swimming pool and big jacuzzi are on the top floor and it s a very cozy area - the brand new new machines in the gym All of the above makes living in there such a great experience. We have several properties around the world, including in London, Monaco etc. and honestly this building deserve to be rated very high.
Read moreGreat living experience!
Nothing can be compared to this tower when it comes to luxurious living experience! I have been living here since 2020 and when it comes to level of services and facilities, Sky Gardens is no. 1 Among others places I lived in! You pay a bit extra than average rent around but you get stylish designs, wonderful maintenance and a tower full of facilities. Everything is maintained on regular basis and you feel you live in a brand new property! Oh yeah, let’s not forget those fancy sky gardens inside the tower itself ( A place to read a book or do some work in! ) The location is superb where it is a street crossing to DIFC and 5 mins walking to the nearest metro station. They do regular activities such like free ice cream where families can enjoy it :) Love it!
Read moreThe best building I've lived in
Lived in this building twice. Best location across the street from DIFC and all its hustle and bustle, made so many friends there and the building is so convenient with a mini mart, drycleaner and hair salon in the lobby.
Read moreGreat location and high class people
Great location with 1 walking minute to DIFC and DIFC Avenue. 5 walking mins to Metro & Sheikh Zayed Rd. with view on most beautiful building in the world (Future Museum). Maintenance is great and layout of Studios are outstanding
Read moreBest Location in DIFC Opposite Zuma
Awesome location for DIFC professionals. Roll out of bed and straight to work. The building has a great Gym, sunny roof top pool and easy parking. Location cant be beaten.
Read moreSuperior location! laundry, Berber shop, Inside gardens every 7 floors...etc
24hours Supermarket in the tower, laundry, Berber shop, restaurants, coffeeshop and spa inside the tower!!! What else a tenant need? of course a very nice pool, GYM and barbecue area with a wonderful view! Great & big closed gardens and setting areas every 7 floors where tenants can sit in Summer hot weather! Great location with easy access to DIFC & Sheikh Zayed Rd. 1 walking minute to DIFC & 5 mins walking to Emirates Towers Metro Station. Wonderful view for high floors with DIFC side. I've lived here for 4 years and I wish I've never moved from this tower last year!
Read moreExtremely noisy
If you’re facing happiness street you will have the luck to have Four Seasons blasting all Types of music from 9pm until 3am every day of the week, without exception. The building management does little about it, and does not seem very concerned. I seriously regret renting here.... please don’t make this mistake. There’s better options for the same price or less.
Read moreNice Bulding but poor maintenance
The main entrance smells always bad, even some parts of the flat have a bad smell either from the AC or down in the flat. Over all good building but fells like it’s expired
Read moreSkygardens DIFC
Skygardens difc is good value and large apartments but not pet friendly so if you love your 4 legged friends this is not the place for them. AC bills are also extremely high as tenants also pay for the common areas. For singles it’s a great building as It’s conveniently located in the difc and the access to the highway is fast and easy for work.
Read moreAmazing Place in DIFC
Amazing building, the view from my apartment was the best I had till date, overlooked the entire Zabeel. Building is conveniently located with almost everything within walking distance or a 5 min cab ride. Staff are extremely helpful and kind. Sadly had to move due to job requirements. Would definitely recommend staying here.
Read moreBeautiful Property
Beautiful property with amazing view of Zabeel, Building is well maintained and staff are very helpful. Tenants and neighbors are quite friendly. Walking distance from the metro line. A Lot of cafes, bars and restaurants around the area.
Read moreHorrible management, very old equipment, not friendly staff
Moving in and out of this property is a nightmare! The management is really not helping you and tricking you with legal stuff that you cannot do anything about. Read your contract carefully before signing! Also the AC is the biggest joke ever. They increased the price by 30% without any notice, charge with no real measure, there are no counters in the apartments and then charge you whatever they want! It is impossible to contact this company as they hire a remote call center that the only job is to contact relay your call by sending an email to the management. Worst experience as a tenant in this tower.
Read moreGood choice
Great choice , very nice place to live , beautiful building i like the tent outside during Ramadan and friendly staff, it deserve what you are paying.
Read moreOverpriced
The studio apartments are way to overpriced in my opinion comapred to what you can get elsewhere nearby
Read moreBalcony views
Some of the units in that Building is just unbelievable. Great view of buildings and gorgeous side of Zabeel Park and palaces.
Read more