What are the best areas for expats to live in Dubai?

Expert Info

on 22 Jun 2016

Hi, we get loads of questions about the best areas and suburbs for expats to live in within Dubai, so we're starting this thread with a few comments from our contributors:

Q: Which are the best places/suburbs to live in the city as an expat?

A: Dubai Marina is the best place to live as an expat. But for those expats with families or those expats who want to live in a villa, Jumeirah or Umm Sequim are more suitable areas. (Emily is a young American woman living in Dubai)

A: Any. You can live in the original city or in one of the many new developments in New Dubai (where foreigners can buy freehold property). The better quality accommodation is generally in the new developments, including waterfront properties on manmade lakes and canals. (an American Expat woman)

A: Popular areas for families are developments such as Arabian Ranches and Emirates Living areas such as The Meadows, The Springs and The Lakes, as well as the Palm Jumeirah. For traditional style villas close to all amenities, Jumeirah and Umm Suqueim are popular. For apartments, Dubai Marina, The Greens and the area around Old Town, close to Burj Khalifa. (expat from the UK)

A: I am, of course, biased as I love our area, but Arabian Ranches is a great place to live – it’s away from the hustle and bustle of the city, there’s a retail centre, a world-class golf course and an equestrian centre with two polo fields. It’s beautifully landscaped with play areas and swimming pools inside the gated communities. However, you may have trouble getting your children into JESS, the local school, due to long waiting lists.

Other popular areas for expats include Jumeriah which is close to the beach; Greens/Springs which are less expensive than Jumeriah, The Palm Jumeriah, Green Community; and Dubai Marina. We started out in Mirdiff, which also has a lot going for it. (Marianne is a mother and freelance writer from the UK)

A: I live on Sheikh Zahed road, near shops, hotels and restaurants. (Clare is an expat from South Africa)

A: There are several areas in Dubai that are considered particularly “Western”, for example Dubai Marina, Springs or Arabian ranchos. However, it is quite typical for Western expats to live in other areas too. There is no segregation. Expats are living everywhere. (Sergey is a Russian expat)

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