Living in Dubai is a key issue for all expats coming to the UAE. The city is large and so is the selection of residential properties. That's why many people ask themselves where to live and which residential area is best for me?
This question is answered in this article with an overview of the most popular residential areas in Dubai and their advantages and disadvantages.
Where to live in Dubai? 5 criteria
Here are the 5 most important criteria when it comes to choosing the right apartment, villa or townhouse. There is no such thing as the best residential area in Dubai. You should always make your choice individually and consider the following criteria.
Location
Probably the most decisive factor for many is the location. After all, Dubai is big and traffic has also increased in recent years. Accordingly, it is important to find the right property in a location where you feel comfortable and which is also close to the main routes you regularly take.
If you work downtown, for example, you probably shouldn't live in the marina. The journey can take over 1 hour during rush hour.
Price
The decisive factor is, of course, the price of the property or your own budget. Hardly any other city offers such a wide range of prices. From studio apartments that cost €250 per month to villas that cost over €25,000 per month.
Infrastructure
What has become increasingly important is the infrastructure within a community or residential area. After all, having a gym, hairdresser, pharmacy and supermarket within walking distance saves a lot of time and money. The major developers have now recognized this and are planning not only buildings but also entire communities in a targeted manner. This is called a master developer. However, not all areas have one.
Quality
Another important aspect is the quality of the residential area in terms of construction quality. There are major differences here, as different communities are built by different developers. In some cases, there are also differences within a community, as several developers build in some communities at the same time. Creek Harbour, for example, is being built purely by Emaar, while there is a mix in Meydan.
The best residential areas in Dubai
Here is an overview of the best residential areas in Germany that have been particularly popular with expats for years.
Creek Harbor
Among German expats, Creek Harbour is probably number #1. The relatively new residential area is just 15 minutes from downtown and only 10-15 minutes from the airport. It also offers great sunset views of Downtown and the Dubai skyline.
The community itself offers everything you need for everyday life. From supermarkets and restaurants to pharmacies and even a hospital (Mediclinic Creek Harbour).
In the middle of Creek Island there is a park where children can play or run. There is also a kilometer-long promenade around the island.
Emaar Beachfront
Miami Beach in Dubai. This is exactly what you get with Emaar Beachfront. The raised sandbank between the Palm and JBR offers beachfront living with brilliant views of the skyline and the open sea. Prices in the area have risen sharply, but are still affordable for most expats.
Those looking for that vacation feeling are drawn to Emaar Beachfront.
However, the infrastructure is not quite as good as in other areas, as the project is not yet fully completed and space is also limited.
Dubai Hills
The heart of Dubai is in Dubai Hills. This is because it is located right in the middle between the two centers of Downtown and Marina/JBR. If you travel a lot, Dubai Hills is probably the best location, as you can get everywhere relatively quickly from here.
The community itself offers the largest park in Dubai and probably also the best mall. The Dubai Hills Mall is absolutely untouristic and yet offers everything you need. Accordingly, it is very popular with residents.
Dubai Hills is also home to King's College Hospital, one of the best hospitals in Dubai.
If you want to live here, you will find everything from exclusive villas to terraced houses and simple studio apartments. The area is now very large and well developed.
Port de La Mer
European life on the beach can be found in Port de La Mer. Modeled after the port city of Tivat in Montenegro, here you will find low-rise buildings in a beautiful community right by the sea. All residents have access to the marina and the beach, which is located on the other side of the peninsula.
In terms of location, you are more in the north of Dubai, which you should be aware of. The price here is also higher than most new communities due to the limited number of residential units, tranquillity, quality and infrastructure.
Downtown
Big city life in Dubai can definitely be found in Downtown. There are numerous skyscrapers here, including the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa. The world-famous Dubai Mall with its fountain show is also right next door.
Here you will find all the infrastructure you need for daily life, except for a park for walking.
In terms of price, it is still in the middle class compared to other residential areas in Dubai.
Meydan
Meydan is a new up-and-coming district with a good location. The district is close to downtown and has developed enormously in recent years. However, it is still a large construction site and there is building work going on everywhere. The location and new buildings make the district very popular.
Shobha, one of the best developers in Dubai, also builds a lot here, which gives you a higher quality of construction. However, many other developers (Nakheel, Ellington, Azizi...) are also building in Meydan, which makes the prices and supply very different.
Al Barari
"Life is better in Dubai!". Everyone probably knows this phrase and it comes from Prince Marcus von Anhalt. He is also known for his large villa and the Helloween Party in Dubai. This takes place in Al Barari. The green residential district is somewhat removed from the hustle and bustle, but offers plenty of peace and green spaces. You could almost think you were in Europe. It takes 20-30 minutes to get downtown and to the Palm, but you have the most important things on site and you can have everything delivered.
However, the price is definitely above average. Here you pay for peace and exclusivity.
FAQ
An overview of the most frequently asked questions about living in Dubai.
How expensive is it to live in Dubai?
The price range is huge, hardly any other city offers housing at such a different price. For a decent 1 BDR apartment, however, you can expect to pay €2,000-2,5000.
Where do Germans live in Dubai?
Most German expats live in Creek Harbour, Dubai Hills and Marina.
Where do Emiratis live in Dubai?
Locals or Emiratis live mainly in the beach districts of Jumeirah 1-4, where expats are allowed to rent, but ownership is reserved for Emiratis.
Summary
Living in Dubai is a comprehensive topic, as the choice and differences between residential areas in Dubai are huge. It is therefore advisable to inform yourself well in advance, even to rent on a monthly basis and to test several areas at the beginning. Location, price, quality and infrastructure are decisive factors.
