Best Art Districts to Live in Dubai

Al Quoz is a centrally located district between Al Khail Road (E44) and Sheikh Zayed Road (E311). It’s close to Al Safa, Umm Al Sheif, Umm Suqeim, and Business Bay.

It is a popular place among local families and expats who've been in Dubai for years. Al Quoz is where industrial warehouses co-exist with contemporary art galleries, unique boutiques, and quirky cafes.

Al Quoz Residential Areas

The residential areas of Al Quoz 1, 2, and 4 are in the northeastern part and offer villas, occupied predominantly by Emiratis, as well as the apartment communities of Al Khail Gate and Al Khail Heights.

Apartments for rent in Al Quoz range from studios to 3-bedroom apartments, while villas range from 4 - 7-bedroom homes.

Al Quoz Industrial Areas

Meanwhile, Al Quoz Industrial areas 1, 2, 3, and 4 are in the southwest of Al Quoz and are being developed by the Dubai Municipality as industrial and mass accommodation areas.

Al Quoz 1 is home to multiple car showrooms. Commercial properties in Al Quoz, Dubai include warehouses, labor camps, offices, showrooms, plots of land, and staff accommodation units.

Arts and Culture Scene in Al Quoz, Dubai

At first glance, Al Quoz might not look like an art hub, however, it has deeply embedded itself in Dubai’s artistic and cultural scene, with its art galleries, performance spaces, and photography studios, many of which are based in repurposed warehouses.

The main artistic hotspot in Al Quoz is Alserkal Avenue, a hub of some of the top art galleries in Dubai. Alserkal is also home to Cinema Akil - an independent movie theater - and artisanal cafes, food trucks, and boutique shops. It hosts a variety of creative events and workshops regularly.

Another creative space in Al Quoz is The Courtyard, just opposite Alserkal. It’s a green space with quirky cafes, concept stores, and a theater, all set amid Greco-Roman, classical Egyptian, and French facades.

Transportation & Metro Stations in Al Quoz

Transportation is extremely convenient at Al Quoz to cater to the large working population. There are two metro stations in Al Quoz, Equiti, and Onpassive metro stations, both on the red line. Bus stops are dotted all around the area and taxis are easy to find. 

Parking in Al Quoz, Dubai

Apartment complexes have dedicated parking spaces and villas have covered parking.

Dubai Design District, or commonly referred to as D3, is the heart of creativity and innovation in Dubai. Located by Dubai Creek and lined with magnificent skyscrapers while overlooking Burj Khalifa, D3 is the home to all that is avant-garde, from the iconic Dubai Design Week and Sole DXB, to major international brands and design houses such as Nike and Adidas. Not only that, but the area is brimming with vibrant murals and artisanal cafes and restaurants guranteed to delight anyone with fine taste.

The unique feature of this amazing community is its ability to bring together creative professionals from across various disciplines such as fashion, art, architecture and design. This thriving hub features plenty of family-friendly attractions such as cafes, restaurants and an array of retail outlets offering everything from luxury items to everyday needs. The area also boasts pleasant public spaces with plenty to explore including promenades, parks and playgrounds – perfect for families looking to spend quality time together.

Given that D3 is an art and business hub, it mainly includes commercial, retail, and hospitality properties. However, the residential properties available in Dubai Design District are luxurious apartments ranging from studios to 4 bedroom apartments offering breathtaking views over the Burj Khalifa.

Developed by TECOM Group in 2013, D3 not only provides a fashionable environment but also ensures top-class amenities including a selection of excellent schools, gyms and sports facilities catering to every need imaginable, making it ideal for both living and working alike. Not only that, but Dubai Design District also caters to nature lovers thanks to its close proximity to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, where they can watch migratory birds like flamingos and herons.

All in all, Dubai Design District is the perfect place for every creative soul and fashion enthusiast, with great access to the best of what Dubai has to offer.

Al Jaddaf is a culturally rich area located in Bur Dubai along the Dubai Creek. Its name literally translates to "The Rower" as it was used as a dhow building site and is also home to the Dubai Ship Docking Yard, known as Jadaf.

Moreover, Al Jaddaf houses the Dubai Culture Village, aka Jaddaf Waterfront, an upscale neighborhood offering elegant waterfront properties along the Dubai creek.

The area has a lot to offer to its visitors and residents. It boasts a unique atmosphere and highlights that make it stand out from the rest of the city. The vibrant environment provides plenty of entertainment for those looking for some fun.

For instance, Zabeel Stadium which hosts a variety of concerts is located in Al Jaddaf. Additionally, the nieghborhood is the homeground of Al Wasl Football club. So entertainment and sports enthusiasts are sure to get their fill here.

The community is full of modern apartments, villas, and other properties available for rent or purchase, depending on one's needs. Developers such as Binghatti and Azizi have contributed significantly to Al Jaddaf's development, offering quality housing options with excellent amenities. Most properties come with features such as gyms, pools, and other facilities which make them very sought after by potential renters or buyers.

Affordability is also a bonus when considering Al Jaddaf as an option for residence. Renting does not cost too much compared to some areas in Dubai which makes it suitable for families on tighter budget constraints but still wanting access to all the modern comforts that living here would provide them with.

In summary, Al Jaddaf stands out among its peers in many aspects - from its numerous attractions to its great affordability - making it an attractive place to live in Dubai whether you are looking for just a short stay or more permanent residence options.

Bur Dubai is the cradle of heritage in Dubai. It was the first original settlement in the emirate before it transformed into the modern metropolis that it is today.

Located on the western side of Dubai Creek, ‘Bur Dubai’ translates to ‘Mainland Dubai’, referring to Bur Dubai’s separation from Deira by the Dubai Creek. In the past, people had to use an abra (a traditional wooden boat) to go from Bur Dubai to Deira and vice versa. Today, they use the Al Maktoum Bridge and Al Shindagha Tunnel, which connect both neighbourhoods.

Bur Dubai is like a time capsule, where Dhows (traditional boats) loaded with everything from textiles to technology dominate the Dubai Creek. They invoke the spirit of Dubai’s original trading roots, which shaped it into the trade hub that it is today.

In contrast to Dubai’s modern architecture and new ports for massive ships, Bur Dubai displays its rich history unapologetically. It brims with bustling squares and narrow streets that hold both residential corners and commercial hubs together like beads on a string. For those reasons, it’s a popular spot for those who want to experience Old Dubai.

A Closer Look at Bur Dubai

Adding to its importance is the fact that it houses many consulates, temples, and the Ruler’s Court. Not only that, but it’s also the site of many tourist hotspots, including renovated historic buildings and museums.

Popular landmarks include the Al Fahidi Historical District, also known as Al Bastakiya, Al Shindagha Historical District, the Dubai Museum, the Textile Souk, the blue-tiled Iranian Mosque, and the Grand Mosque which features the city’s tallest minaret. Shopping streets and dinner cruises on dhow boats also abound in the area.

Bur Dubai even has a Hindu temple that dates back to the 1960s, which made it a home base for many expat Indian families. As a result, there are many Indian restaurants and shops in the area.

Moreover, Bur Dubai contains many subcommunities such as Oud Metha, Al Mankhool, Al Jaddaf, Culture Village, Al Karama, Al Raffa, and Umm Hurair, making it a very popular place to rent apartments in Dubai.

The plethora of amenities in the area boosts its popularity, as there are many schools, parks, clinics, cafes, and restaurants in Bur Dubai.

Properties in Bur Dubai

There’s a wide variety of properties available in Bur Dubai thanks to the many districts it includes. Here you’ll find modern mid-rise apartment buildings, older ones with vintage apartments, hotel apartments, and even villas.

Generally speaking, Bur Dubai is known for offering cheap apartments for rent in Dubai, although prices vary by area and building. Areas like Al Fahidi and Al Raffa are quite affordable, while Jaddaf, Oud Metha, and Al Mankhool are on the pricier side. 

You will find studios, 1, 2, 3, and 4 bedroom apartments, as well as villas that go up to 6 bedrooms and more. The majority of apartment buildings are located in Oud Metha, Al Jaddaf, Al Hamriyah, and Al Raffa. These are mostly low and mid-rise buildings that get rented out quickly thanks to their affordable prices and amenities close by. Moreover, since some of the buildings are quite old, most of the apartments are unfurnished. 

Those looking for villas in Bur Dubai will find them in Mankhool, Al Hamriya, and Al Kifaf. These units are quite spacious and come with a whole host of amenities.

Given its buzzing commercial scene, it makes sense for Bur Dubai to have commercial properties. Here you’ll find offices, business centres, showrooms, retail spaces, and shops for rent in Bur Dubai. Popular locations for shops include Mankhool, Oud Metha, Al Raffa and Al Souk Al Kabeer, while the offices for rent in Bur Dubai are available in those areas as well as Khalid Bin Al Waleed Road and Al Ghubaiba Area.

Transportation in Bur Dubai

Bur Dubai is extremely well connected by public transport, with metro, bus stations, and even water transport all available.

Metro Stations in Bur Dubai

There are numerous metro stations in Bur Dubai on both the red and green lines to serve the different communities in the area. These include: 

Metro Stations on the Green Line:

• Al Ghubaiba
• Dubai Healthcare City
• Al Jadaf Metro Station
• Oud Metha

Metro Stations on the Red Line

• ADCB Metro Station
• BurJuman: this is a transit station serving both the red and green lines

How to Reach Bur Dubai by Ferry

If you want to take the scenic route, catch The Dubai Ferry to and from Bur Dubai. It departs from Al Ghubaiba. For a shorter trip, take the traditional abra which crosses the creek from Bur Dubai to Deira and vice versa.

Bur Dubai Tourist Attractions & Things to Do

• Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood: travel back to life in Old Dubai in the 19th century at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, also known as Al Bastakiya. Walk down narrow winding lanes between old buildings and wind towers to discover plenty of cultural activities, art galleries, museums, events, and local food. The Dubai Museum and The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) are located here.


• Al Seef: this waterfront destination by the Dubai Creek offers contemporary dining experiences in the traditional setting of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.


• Textile Souk: dazzle your eyes with a feast of colours at Textile Souk, a prominent market offering vibrant fabrics such as raw silk, cotton, and embroidered materials. There’s no limit to the colours and prints you can find there. You can also find skilled tailors to customise any clothing of your choice.


• Meena Bazaar: known as Dubai’s ‘Little India’, Meena Bazaar offers all kinds of products from South Asia such as perfumes, fashion, food, and spices.


• Museum of Illusions: travel from the past to the future at the Museum of Illusions, located in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Trick your mind with creative optical illusions and take social media-worthy shots.


• Zabeel Park: with a size equivalent to 45 football fields, Zabeel Park is one of the biggest parks in Dubai. It’s also home to a popular attraction, Dubai Frame, from which people can look at both old and new Dubai. Zabeel Park also has jogging and walking tracks, barbecue, and picnic areas.


• Zabeel Palace: served as the home of The Late HH Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum from 1965 to 1990. It’s an architectural masterpiece that once stood alone in the desert and is now surrounded by Dubai’s modern skyline.


• WAFI City: this unique Ancient Egyptian-themed mall was among the first large malls in Dubai since it opened in the early 1990s. It’s home to the iconic AYA Universe.


• AYA Universe: lose yourself in a surreal world of celestial bodies, illuminated gardens, and colourful rivers with 12 zones of interactive installations and experiences. Aya Universe is located in WAFI City.


• Abra Tours: Take an Abra from Bur Dubai to Deira on the other side of the Dubai Creek. It’s an unmissable experience in Bur Dubai.

Possible Challenges

Traffic, parking, and noise are issues that people tend to complain about since Bur Dubai is a bustling area. It also gets quite congested during peak hours so you’ll have to plan your commute to avoid these times.

With that being said, some residential buildings are located on quieter streets where you can avoid the bustle.

An upscale neighborhood that’s among the most luxurious in Dubai, Emirates Hills takes after the popular Beverly Hills in USA. Similarly, it’s home to celebrities, politicians, and businessmen, making it one of the city’s most exclusive communities, and one of the best places to buy luxury villas in Dubai.

It's known for the massive 18-hole Montgomerie golf course, which has most of the community’s properties overlooking its beauty. Another major hotspot is the 36-hole Emirates Golf Club in Emirates Hills 2.

Emirates Hills is part of the Emirates Living project, which includes The Springs, The Meadows, and The Lakes, all of them neighboring Emirates Hills.

Why Emirates Hills is in a League of Its Own

The Peak of Grandeur: Emirates Hills is not just a neighborhood; it's a statement. Picture yourself in a majestic villa, meticulously crafted with the finest materials and boasting breathtaking views of the iconic Montgomerie Golf Club.

Exclusivity at its Finest: As one of Dubai's first freehold property areas, Emirates Hills attracted a distinguished community of affluent families and discerning individuals. This created an ambiance of unmatched sophistication and prestige that sets it apart from the rest. The villas for sale in Emirates Hills are among the most expensive in the UAE. If you want to really customize your home, you can build your own villa on one of the plots for sale in Emirates Hills.

More Than Just Luxury: Beyond the opulence, Emirates Hills nurtures a strong sense of community. Residents enjoy access to premium amenities, including the prestigious Emirates Golf Club and the serene Montgomerie. Parks, recreational areas, and a sparkling swimming pool provide plenty of opportunities for leisure and recreation.

A Family-Friendly Oasis: Despite its grandeur, Emirates Hills remains a haven for families. It has access to excellent international schools like Dubai International Academy, which is located in the community, and Emirates International School, located in Meadows. Moreover, the gated community offers 24/7 security services and kids playgrounds, making it ideal for families.

Lifestyle in Emirates Hills Dubai

Life in Emirates Hills is synonymous with serenity and exclusivity. Wake up to panoramic golf course views, enjoy a round of golf at your doorstep, or simply relax by your private pool, the choice is yours. With lush landscaping and a tranquil ambiance, Emirates Hills offers a welcome escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

A Prime Location

Strategically located within Emirates Living, Emirates Hills enjoys proximity to key areas of Dubai. The bustling hubs of Dubai Marina, JBR, and Dubai Media City are a short drive away, while major highways provide seamless connectivity to the rest of the city.

Live Your Legacy at Emirates Hills

Emaar’s Emirates Hills isn't just a place to live; it's a legacy. Owning a piece of this prestigious community is a testament to your success and a sound investment in your future. If you seek the pinnacle of luxury living in Dubai, look no further than Emirates Hills.

Downtown is Dubai’s crown jewel: it hosts the city’s best tourist attractions, such as Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. It also offers an array of housing, entertainment, and shopping options that never fail to impress. As the name suggests, it’s at the heart of Dubai, located along Sheikh Zayed Road next to Business Bay.

It's easily accessible by the Burj Khalifa/ Dubai Mall metro station as well as buses and taxis. Downtown Dubai is a hub of activity, with regular shows and festivals, hotels, and fine dining restaurants, there’s never a dull moment. Dubai Opera is also in the area, and it hosts a variety of events such as concerts, theater plays, ballet, opera, conferences, and exhibits.

Key Highlights

• Centrally Located
• Home to Dubai’s most popular attractions such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and the Dubai Fountain
• The beating heart of Dubai
• Vibrant lifestyle filled with events & activities
• Holistic community with all kinds of amenities

Attractions & Things to do in Downtown Dubai:

Whether you want to relax, party, or shop, Downtown is the place to be. It attracts flocks of tourists and residents alike since it has it all. Emaar Properties developed the area to be all-inclusive and attract people from all over the world.

Burj Khalifa tops the list of attractions in Downtown Dubai. You can admire its glittering lights up close or go to the observation deck, ‘At the Top’ to get panoramic views of the city from the 124th floor. But even if you’re not interested in acting like a tourist, you can marvel at the Burj from the many restaurants and hotels that overlook it. 

Speaking of restaurants and hotels, there are countless options to choose from, offering all kinds of cuisines and stunning views. As for hotels, you can pamper yourself at the spas and infinity pools at a number of luxurious hotels, such as Address Skyview, Sofitel Dubai Downtown, and Armani Hotel by the Burj Khalifa.

When it comes to shopping, nothing beats Dubai Mall, with over 1,200 shops from a wide range of brands. However, Dubai Mall is a universe of its own that offers far more than just shopping. It’s home to many attractions such as The Dubai Fountain, Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, Dubai Ice Rink, and KidZania.

If you’re craving a taste of heritage, head to Souk Al Bahar to dine and shop for traditional items such as carpets and handicrafts in an old-souk setting. Meanwhile, if you need to relax or take a walk, Burj Park is a great option. Enjoy walking or cycling with a view of Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain.

Lifestyle & Real Estate in Downtown Dubai

The lifestyle in Downtown Dubai is quite upscale, with a variety of luxurious amenities and leisure options available. People from all nationalities live here, testifying to Dubai’s diverse culture.

Real Estate in Downtown Dubai also tends to be opulent. In fact, the area is among the most popular choices for those looking for luxury apartments for rent in Dubai. However, apartments for sale in Downtown Dubai are also quite popular among investors, thanks to the area’s evergreen value.

While it’s primarily a vertical community offering apartments, penthouses, and hotel apartments, there are a few villas available in Downtown Dubai.

Properties here come in a variety of designs, from contemporary skyscrapers to low-rise Arabesque buildings, appealing to different tastes.

Moreover, Downtown has pretty much everything a community should have. The area brims with cafés, restaurants, and nighttime venues, many with views of the Dubai Fountain.

Meanwhile, parents have the option of several nurseries and kid’s clubs to entertain their children. Another major perk of living in Downtown Dubai is its excellent connectivity to the rest of the city. It’s centrally located and has direct access to public transportation like the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall metro station, as well as buses and taxis.

It doesn’t get better than the Dubai Marina if you want to live in one of the city’s most stylish neighborhoods. It is a high-rise district home to residential and serviced apartments and hotel towers offering an array of entertainment venues and restaurants.

Established in 2003, Dubai Marina is a man-made canal city built along a 3 km stretch of the Arabian Gulf’s shoreline. Developed by the reputable Emaar Properties, it quickly became one of Dubai’s most luxurious neighborhoods.

It lies along a canal dotted with yachts and framed by some of Dubai’s highest skyscrapers. In fact, it’s known as the ‘Tallest Block in the World’, as it’s home to many of the world’s tallest residential buildings. Many of these high-rise buildings feature stunning waterfront views, making Dubai Marina one of the most popular areas for renting and buying luxurious apartments.

The popular leisure and residential district of Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) is located in Dubai Marina. It was developed by Dubai Properties and contains 40 towers with a capacity of 15,000 people. JBR is known for its beach, restaurants, nightlife, and sand-colored JBR residential complex. 

Another prestigious development in Dubai Marina is Dubai Harbour, a seafront district developed by Meraas with a 120,000 sqm cruise facility that can berth up to 700 boats and yachts. It lies at the intersection of Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters Island and contains a variety of residential buildings, dining and leisure facilities. 

Dubai Marina is located on Interchange 5 between Jebel Ali Port and the area that contains Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, and the American University in Dubai. It’s also close to Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), Dubai Internet City, and Palm Jumeirah.

Key Highlights:

• One of the most iconic areas in Dubai
• Popular Tourist Destination
• Waterfront Community
• Home to JBR and Dubai Harbour
• Highly attractive to investors 
• Efficient Public Transportation with access to 2 metro stations and a tram
• Known as the ‘Tallest Block in the World’ as it contains some of the world’s tallest residential buildings
• Key Locations: Dubai Marina Walk, Pier 7, Dubai Marina Mall, Dubai Marina Yacht Club
• Offers some of the most luxurious apartments in Dubai

Lifestyle & Things to Do in Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina is a major tourist destination since it epitomizes what Dubai is best known for, the tallest buildings, and a lifestyle of luxury. Some of the tallest buildings in Dubai Marina include Cayan Tower, Princess Tower, Elite Residence, Ocean Heights, and Marina 101, all of which are part and parcel of Dubai’s skyline.

Moreover, Dubai Marina is home to upscale alfresco dining spots, mostly present on the Dubai Marina Walk and Pier 7. 

Visitors and residents can shop, dine, and watch movies at the Dubai Marina Mall, or pamper themselves at the many spas and hotels available. 

Swimming and watersports are also popular activities in JBR, a subcommunity in Dubai Marina. Yacht cruises and watersports are also available at the well-known Dubai Marina Yacht Club.

Thrill seekers can head to Xline Dubai Marina, the world’s longest urban zipline. Expect to whoosh through the skyscrapers at a speed of 80 km/h and 170 meters high on a 1 km long zipline that gives you a bird’s eye view of Dubai Marina. 

If that’s not enough for those who love to fly, then Skydive Dubai would be an excellent option. It offers an unparalleled skydiving experience with an iconic view of Palm Jumeirah.

Those who like to stay active can jog or cycle along the Dubai Marina Walk, or head to the countless fitness centers available.

Dubai Marina is also popular for water cruises. You can rent a luxurious yacht or a traditional Dhow boat to explore the glitzy neighborhood by water.

The area is a playground for social butterflies who love living life to the fullest. Marina residents love the water views from the buildings’ balconies, whether of the marina itself or the open sea poised by some of Dubai’s most recognizable skyscrapers. The apartments for rent in Dubai Marina are constantly in high demand, as are the apartments for sale in Dubai Marina, thanks to the area’s timeless value.