Table of Contents
What to know before living in Dubai?
Dubai is one of the most popular cities in the world for people to live and work in. With its modern infrastructure and thriving economy, Dubai offers something for everyone. From its iconic skyline to beaches and adventure, it’s the perfect place to settle. People living here enjoy the highest standards of living in safety, comfort, and ease of access.
Dubai also offers exceptional career opportunities, with large multinational companies and SMEs creating a diverse and cosmopolitan working environment. The city has also seen an emergence of industries such as technology, media, and fashion, creating vast and exciting job openings available in various sectors.
With its unique culture, diversity, western amenities and high quality of life, Dubai is an attractive city for those who want to work and live in an exciting, vibrant city.
Where is Dubai?
Dubai is the United Arab Emirates’ second largest emirate. It is located on the southeast coast of the Arabian Peninsula, in the Middle East. It is bordered by the Omani exclave of Musandam to the north, Abu Dhabi to the south, Sharjah to the east, and Saudi Arabia to the west. It shares land borders with all the other emirates, as well as maritime borders with Qatar in the Persian Gulf and Iran in the Gulf of Oman. Its strategic location along the Persian Gulf and its proximity to Africa and Asia has made Dubai an important hub for trade, tourism, and finance. The city is only 25 kilometres from the border with Oman, making it one of the most accessible cities in the region.
What is Dubai's population?
Dubai is a bustling and cosmopolitan city comprised of hundreds of nationalities and backgrounds. According to the official 2020 figures, Dubai’s population stands at 3,337,167 people. Of this number, only 17% are locals known as Emiratis. The remaining 83% of the population is made up largely of expatriates from the Indian subcontinent, making Indians the largest expatriate demographic group.
Due to the influx of foreign nationals, the population is very young with the median age being 32.5 years, lower than the global average. The majority of the population is also highly educated and 25% have acquired a graduate degree or higher.
The city is extremely diverse as evidenced by over 200 different nationalities and cultures living and utilizing the services in the booming emirate. One of the most interesting facts about Dubai is that it has the highest population density in the world with 21,000 people per square kilometre.
Overall, Dubai has seen tremendous growth over the years. It is home to many different ethnicities, languages, religions, and nationalities all living in harmony. It’s unique mix of citizens has made it an incredibly vibrant place to work and visit.
What is the official language of Dubai?
The official language of Dubai is Arabic, but English is widely spoken by almost all of the city’s population. As a major international hub, Dubai has many residents of different nationalities which is why such a range of languages are spoken in the city. According to 2017 estimates, English is the most spoken language in Dubai while only 18 percent of the population speaks Arabic.
How many languages are spoken in Dubai?
- Arabic: It is the official language of the United Arab Emirates and the most spoken language in Dubai. It is used in government, business, education, and daily life.
- English: English is widely used in Dubai’s business and educational environments. In addition, it is becoming popular as a language of choice for communication among locals and with tourists.
- Hindi: Many Bollywood movies are filmed in Dubai and the city is also home to a large population of South Asian expatriates, so Hindi is a common language in the city.
- Urdu: Urdu is the national language of Pakistan and is widely spoken in Dubai as a result of the large Pakistani population.
- Farsi: Farsi is spoken mainly by Iranians who live and work in Dubai.
- Tagalog (Filipino): Tagalog is the language of the majority of Filipino expatriates in Dubai.
- Russian: Russian is widely used in Dubai, mainly by expatriates from the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe.
- French: French is spoken mainly by Western expatriates in Dubai.
- Japanese: Japanese is used mainly by Japanese expatriates.
What is Dubai's culture and customs?
Dubai is a multicultural city filled with people from many backgrounds and cultures, yet the local Emirati culture remains strong in the city. As a resident, it is important to familiarize oneself with local culture and customs out of respect for the Emirati people.
Greetings are a key part of Emirati culture. Whether meeting family, friends, or strangers, an Emirati handshake, along with a few polite words, is expected to show respect. Modesty is another principle to abide by, as heavily exposed skin is considered immodest. This is especially true when visiting a mosque; visitors are expected to dress modestly and cover their heads.
When entering an Emirati home, it’s important to take into consideration that removing one’s shoes may be required and certain items should not be touched, such as photographs of family members. Consumption and lifestyle habits are also important; for instance, consuming or selling alcohol outside of dedicated areas is prohibited and pork products are not generally favored in local restaurants.
In public and social settings, it is generally best to avoid discussing sensitive topics, such as religion and politics. Additionally, one should be mindful of various customs; for instance, a strict dress code is typically enforced in more traditional restaurants, gestures that may be interpreted as rude or offensive are best avoided, and physical contact between genders should be kept to a minimum.
Overall, it is important to practice cultural sensitivity when visiting or living in Dubai to show respect for the Emirati culture. Becoming familiar with local customs and keeping etiquette in mind can help ensure a good experience when interacting with local Emiratis.
What is Dubai's time zone?
Located in the Middle East, Dubai, United Arab Emirates uses the UTC+4 Gulf Standard Time for all its time zones. This places their clocks three hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +3) and eight hours ahead of the United States’ Eastern Standard Time (EST +8). Dubai observes daylight-saving time each year, setting the clocks ahead by one hour during spring, and back one hour in fall, pushing the clocks ahead to UTC+5 during that time period. This annual procedure of changing the clock ahead and back tends to cause confusion among the general population, and so annual bulletins are released to the public with information about the start and end date of the daylight-saving time, as well as adjustments to the city’s time zone. Through this practice, Dubai residents are able to enjoy natural sunlight after sunset during spring and winter, while also having extra light stays in the morning during fall and winter.
What is the currency used in Dubai?
The currency used in Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). Exchange rates with other countries are generally very competitive, so travellers may find their money goes further. Money can be exchanged at banks, airport currency exchanges, and money changers throughout the city. The exchange rate at the airport is generally higher than in other locations, so travellers should plan accordingly. ATMs are widely available in the city, and debit and credit cards can be used in most places. For personal convenience, it is also possible to carry some US Dollars as a backup.
How is the weather in Dubai?
Dubai sits within the Arabian desert and almost all of its rainfall occurs between the months of November and April, when hot humid conditions can be expected. Summers in the city are hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to as high as a scorching 49°C, although they usually average around 40°C. The winter season is much cooler, with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 24°C.
Throughout the year Dubai enjoys plenty of sunshine. Although humidity can be quite uncomfortable during the summer months. One can expect between 8-9 hours of sunlight every day during winter months and 11-12 hours of sunshine across the summer months.
Below is a table which shows the weather changing across the year in terms of Average mean temperatures (in Celsius).
| Month | Avg Temp (°C) |
|---|---|
| January | 19°C |
| February | 20°C |
| March | 23°C |
| April | 26°C |
| May | 32°C |
| June | 36°C |
| July | 38°C |
| August | 38°C |
| September | 35°C |
| October | 31°C |
| November | 26°C |
| December | 21°C |
What is the healthcare system like in Dubai?
The healthcare system in Dubai provides both public and private healthcare to its citizens and residents. All residents in Dubai are eligible to receive public healthcare services, including preventive, curative, and rehabilitative care, as per United Arab Emirates Law. This is done through the Dubai Health Authority, which oversees the public hospitals and medical centres in Dubai.
In terms of private healthcare, there are many private hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities in the region that are independently managed. These healthcare providers offer high-quality services to their patients, including more advanced treatments, technology, and specialized medical centres. Private health insurance is widely available in Dubai, allowing patients to access the private healthcare providers which are usually better equipped than the public.
All healthcare facilities in Dubai, both public and private, follow the guidelines set by the Dubai Health Authority, ensuring that the quality of care is up to international standards. The government of Dubai has also set out certain incentives and subsidies for residents to ensure affordability and accessibility of healthcare.
What is the education system like in Dubai?
Dubai’s education system is renowned for its high standards. The educational system is diverse, incorporating both private and public schools (K-12). Private schools typically provide a broad range of curricula, including the American, British, French, German, and International Baccalaureate (IB). These schools are divided into three tiers: low-cost, or budget; mid-range, or affordable; and higher cost but better-quality.
In addition to the English and Arabic educational systems, Dubai is home to a wide variety of international schools. Most of these offer world-renowned curricula including the IB, American Advanced Placement, International General Certificate of Secondary Education, and the American High School Diploma. These international schools use English as the language of instruction and incorporate extra-curricular activities ranging from sports to music and art.
With the increasing number of expatriates living in Dubai, the city has positioned itself as an international hub, and the city’s educational system has been kept up to date with this shift. The government of Dubai provides its students with specifically designed programs and classes to promote an intercultural understanding. These allow students of different nationalities to learn from each other and grow their global awareness in a safe, multicultural environment.
Overall, the education system in Dubai is well organized. Schools are equipped with the latest technology, and teachers are highly trained and experienced professionals. It provides excellent learning opportunities for students, enabling them to be successful and competitive throughout their academic journey.
What style of architecture is in Dubai?
Dubai, known for its opulence and modernity, showcases a variety of architectural styles. Some of the most dominant styles that have become globally renowned include the Post Modern, Islamic, and international styles. The postmodern style is often characterised by its integration of modern and traditional elements and is usually expressed in grandiose shapes and vibrant colours. Meanwhile, Islamic architecture reflects the region’s cultural heritage, with structures designed in the form of a Mosque or inspired by Islamic art motifs. Then there is the international style, which typically combines elements from all over the world in a creative and sophisticated manner. This style is mostly seen in iconic buildings like the Burj Khalifa or Dubai Mall. Dubai also showcases plenty of Neo-Classical, Mediterranean, and Contemporary designs, all of which blend into the city’s distinctive skyline.
What is Dubai famous for?
- Burj Khalifa: Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, standing at 828 meters high. It has 162 floors and some of the best observation decks overlooking Dubai.
- Palm Jumeirah: This is a man-made island in the shape of a palm tree that is a luxury resort with various attractions. It includes the famous underwater ‘Atlantis the Palm’ hotel.
- Miracle Garden: Miracle Garden is the world’s largest flower garden, with a variety of flowers and plants laid out in grand patterns. It is one of the most colourful attractions of Dubai.
- Wild Wadi Water Park: Wild Wadi Water Park is one of the biggest water parks in the Middle East, offering a vast array of activities like bungee jumping, kayaking and more.
- Dubai Mall: Dubai Mall is the largest shopping mall in the world and has more than 1200 stores and attractions from around the world.
- Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark: Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark is situated in the iconic Palm Jumeirah. You can explore the waterpark’s many exciting attractions and slides through the six levels of adventure.
- Ski Dubai: Ski Dubai offers an alpine experience with real snow all year round in the Mall of the Emirates. It features ski-runs, a snow park, and a chairlift that climbs to the highest point.
- Dessert Safari: A Dessert Safari is a fun way to experience the rugged terrain of the Dubai desert. It includes thrilling activities such as sand-skiing, modified off-road driving, and traditional camping.
What is the public transportation system in Dubai?
Dubai is one of the most modern cities in the world, offering a wide range of transportation options for its citizens and visitors to get around. The city has a comprehensive public transport network including a metro system, tram, buses and taxis.
The Dubai Metro is the world’s longest driverless metro system, with two lines covering over 100 miles and serving 52 stations. With fares as low as 1 dirham (roughly 20 cents) one way, the Dubai Metro is a cheap and reliable option for getting around. The network operates from 6am to 11pm, with additional late nights services available on weekends.
The Dubai Tram is a 5.9-kilometre monorail system with 14 stations located throughout the city. This system is a convenient way to travel to and from popular tourist attractions and beachfront locations. It is also wheelchair accessible and features a host of other amenities such as the free Wi-Fi.
The Dubai bus network offers over 100 routes across the city, with fares as low as 2 dirhams (0.40 USD roughly) one way. The buses are frequent, air-conditioned, and offer wheelchair facilities. Passengers can find real-time bus arrivals on the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) website and app.
Lastly, Dubai has an extensive network of metered taxis operated by the government regulated “Dubai Taxi Corporation”. These cars come equipped with air conditioning and passengers can flag them down or call for pick-up. The fares are slightly more expensive than the other public transport options but are still relatively affordable.
All in all, Dubai has a wide range of reliable and cost-effective transportation options for everyone to get around. Tourists can take advantage of the public transport facilities and explore the iconic attractions of the city without breaking the bank.
What are the best shopping malls in Dubai?
- Dubai Mall: The world’s largest shopping and entertainment complex, housing over 1,200 stores and hosting a diverse range of attractions, including the world’s largest indoor aquarium, ski dome, and luxury hotel.
- Mall of the Emirates: One of Dubai’s most popular malls, with over 700 stores, a 20-screen cinema, and an indoor ski park.
- Deira City Centre: Home to over 370 international brands, a cinematic experience, and a wide range of family-friendly activities.
- Ibn Battuta Mall: The world’s largest themed shopping mall, inspired by the travels of the famous explorer Ibn Battuta. Each court is themed on a different region in the world, making it a unique shopping and entertainment experience.
- Marina Mall: Luxury shopping with seven levels of exclusive stores and restaurants, and a range of entertainment options including a bowling alley and ice rink.
- Festival City: Features a wide variety of brands, the Festival Bay entertainment district, and a golf course and driving range.
- Wafi Mall: Upscale mall with a unique Arabian theme, offering a variety of luxury brand stores, restaurants, and a cinema.
What are the popular local shopping markets in Dubai?
- Naif Souk: This is the oldest Souk in Dubai, and it is known for its spices, textiles, fabric, and gold. Located in Deira.
- Dubai Gold Souk: This souk is one of the most famous in Dubai, and it is known for its jewellery, gemstones, and gold. Located in Deira.
- Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood: This souk offers handicrafts, antiques, and souvenirs. Located in Bur Dubai.
- Deira Fish Market: This is the largest fish market in Dubai, and it offers a variety of fresh seafood, fish, and dried goods. Located in Deira.
- Al Ghurair Centre: This souk is known for its shops, fine jewellery and haute couture stores. Located in Deira.
- Meena Bazaar: This market is known for its traditional clothes, accessories, jewellery, and spices. Located in Bur Dubai.
- Souk al Bahar: This souk offers a wide variety of items including perfumes, carpets, jewellery, and souvenirs. Located in Downtown Dubai.
- Zabeel Market: This market features traditional items like kaftans, carpet, spices, and souvenirs. Located near Zabeel Park in Dubai.
- Dubai Textile Souk: This market is known for its traditional clothing, fabrics, silk, and anything related to textiles. Located along the Dubai Creek in Deira.
How is the nightlife in Dubai?
Dubai’s nightlife is full of energy and exciting nightlife activities. The city is home to world-class nightclubs where people from all over the world come to dance and socialize. Popular hotspots include Zinc Club at the Crowne Plaza hotel, Barasti Beach Bar, and Atelier – M. There are also lounge bars where you can relax and watch the numerous fountains and spectacular fireworks shows, as well as live music venues, shisha cafes, and open-air cinemas that show the latest movies.
Cultural considerations must be kept in mind when enjoying the nightlife in Dubai. Alcohol is strictly regulated and can only be consumed by non-Muslims in designated areas. Women must wear modest clothing, and although mixed gender couples can be seen in public, any physical contact is forbidden. Furthermore, visitors should be aware of local laws, such as being aware of any curfew or alcohol consumption restrictions.
Finally, the legal age for drinking alcohol in Dubai is 21, and visitors must have official identification to purchase and consume it. Visitors should also be aware that any public intoxication could result in arrest or a hefty fine. All in all, the nightlife in Dubai is an incredibly fun experience for those who follow the rules and cultural considerations.
What is the local cuisine like in Dubai?
The cuisine of the United Arab Emirates, often referred to as Emirati cuisine, reflects the country’s culture and its pre-existing history. Emirati cuisine features spices, seafood, and the staple dish of rice. Popular dishes include Machboos, a spicy rice dish with meat, which is a favourite among locals and visitors. Other dishes include hummus, a chickpea dish served with pita bread, along with kebabs, shawarma, and falafel. Traditional desserts include tamr Hindi, a date dessert, and Umm ali, a pastry dish that is filled with nuts and drizzled with syrup. Traditional beverages include lahuh, a flatbread often served with tea, kahwa, a traditional Arabic coffee, and sahlab, a hot beverage made from milk, sugar, and corn starch. In addition to the traditional dishes, the United Arab Emirates also has many international restaurants, providing visitors with a diverse culinary experience.
What outdoor activities can you enjoy in Dubai?
- Beach Activities: Dubai has an array of exhilarating beach activities, from jet skiing and windsurfing to scuba diving and snorkelling. With calm, tranquil waters, visitors can soak in the beauty of the Arabian Gulf.
- Desert Safari: Adventure seekers can explore Dubai’s vast desert by embarking on a desert safari. Ride through the countless sand dunes on a 4×4 or on the back of a camel. Fun activities include sandboarding, dune bashing, and camping in the desert.
- Kite Surfing: Brave the Arabian waters and soar through them on a kite surfing adventure. With strong winds, kite surfers can drift through the waters and relish in the ocean breeze.
- Skiing: An indoor skiing facility, Ski Dubai, allows visitors to experience a taste of winter in the desert. Whether it’s skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, or snow rafting, guests can have unlimited fun at this picturesque snow resort.
- Hiking: For nature lovers, there are plenty of popular hiking trails in and around Dubai. Discover the Arabian wilderness from Jebel Jais to Hajar Mountains.
- Golf: With an array of championship golf courses, golf enthusiasts are sure to enjoy a challenging round. The courses come with breathtaking views of the city skyline and Arabian Gulf.
- Camel Racing: An exciting activity not to be missed when in Dubai is camel racing. Thousands of spectators gather to support their favored camels and cheer on during races.
Are there any famous festivals and events that take place in Dubai?
- Dubai Shopping Festival: Dubai’s annual shopping extravaganza runs from late December to March, giving discounts on numerous items from around the world.
- International Film Festival: Dubai hosts one of the largest international film festivals in the Middle East, showcasing the best of cinema from all over the world.
- Desert Classic Rally: A four-day rally race over the sand dunes of Dubai, this event is a big draw for car enthusiasts and luxury-oriented tourists.
- International Horse Riding: Year-round horse racing, the Dubai World Cup is the highest-stakes horse riding event on the international circuit.
- Arabian Travel Market: The region’s leading travel and tourism event, the Arabian Travel Market attracts thousands of delegates from across the globe.
- National Day: Commemorating the formation of the United Arab Emirates, the annual National Day celebrations comprise of parades, fireworks, concerts and other cultural events.
- Dubai Marathon: This annual event takes place in January and attracts amateur and professional runners alike.
- Global Village: The world’s largest seasonal cultural extravaganza, Global Village boasts festivals, events, culture, shopping and entertainment from 90+ countries.
- Khaleeji Festival of Art: An extensive three-month celebration of the UAE’s local and regional heritage, Khaleeji is a great way to experience traditional Emirati culture.
These events help to demonstrate Dubai’s ambition and vision for the future. The focus on sustainability and innovation, showcased through events like Expo 2020, has made Dubai a desirable destination for international investors and expatriates seeking growth.
What are the work opportunities in Dubai?
- Tourism: Boasting world-class attractions and tourist destinations, Dubai has become one of the top tourist destinations in the world, with a goal to become the world’s largest cruise port by 2020.
- Finance and Banking: Dubai is the financial and banking nucleus of the Middle East, rivalling Shanghai and Hong Kong. Several international banks, including HSBC and Citibank, have a presence in the city.
- Real Estate: Dubai’s real estate industry continues to expand and the city is known for its iconic skyscrapers, such as Burj Khalifa and Marina Torch, as well as its luxury residential developments.
- Shipping and Logistics: Due to its strategic geostrategic location, Dubai has become a major shipping and logistics hub with the world’s busiest cargo airport (Dubai International Airport).
- Business Process Outsourcing (BPO): Dubai has emerging as a hub for business process outsourcing due to its highly competitive workforce and its commitment to the development of the industry.
- Energy: Dubai’s energy sector is a major contributor to the country’s GDP with a variety of businesses ranging from exploration and production to oil and gas services.
- Manufacturing: Dubai is at the forefront of manufacturing in the Middle East region. In most cases, it is the primary regional supplier of industrial products, machinery, and electronics.
- Media and Entertainment: Dubai is quickly establishing itself as a hub for media and entertainment and is home to various news networks, global awards, pacts, and international events.
- Trade: Known as the “City of Merchants”, Dubai has long been a major trading hub in the Middle East.
What is the best investment in Dubai?
Dubai is an attractive destination for foreign investors due to its developed infrastructure, strong legal framework, stable economy, and excellent financial centre. The city offers a wide range of investment opportunities ranging from real estate, banking, infrastructure, hospitality, healthcare, and finance.
Residential Property Market in Dubai:
The residential property market in Dubai is one of the most attractive investment opportunities in the region. The city offers a great lifestyle, world-class services, and a desirable investment climate. The market is also fuelled by rapidly increasing demand for housing, as prices in neighbouring cities such as Abu Dhabi continue to rise.
Factors that make it attractive:
- A stable and attractive economic environment
- An open and liberal business environment
- Low taxes
- Proximity to attractive markets in the MENA and Asia regions
- High returns on residential real estate investment
Potential Return on Investment:
Investors in the residential property market in Dubai can expect high returns. Property rates are rising steadily, with prices in some areas increasing by up to 10% annually. Rental yields are also attractive, ranging up to 8%, making this one of the most attractive investment opportunities in the region.
Key Areas for Investment:
The most attractive areas for investment include Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), and Palm Jumeirah, which offer attractive property rates and rental yields. Other areas that are also popular for investors include Dubai Sports City, The Greens, The Views, and International City.
Overall, investing in the residential property market in Dubai is a good choice for investors looking for attractive returns and a secure investment. With the city’s growing economy, strong legal framework, and liberal business environment, investors in Dubai can look forward to a promising future.
Is it safe to live in Dubai?
Dubai is renowned for its safety, both for its residents and its visitors. It has one of the lowest crime rates in the world and is highly monitored by security forces, which makes it one of the most secure countries in the region. As such, residents have little to worry about when it comes to their personal security and can safely walk, shop, and use public transport with minimal risk of encountering danger.
Tourists can also be sure of their safety in Dubai, as the city is highly geared towards accommodating and protecting foreign nationals. For instance, cameras are in place throughout the city to deter criminal activity and the police are always on guard, ensuring the security of both locals and visitors. Furthermore, access to consular assistance, counselling, and medical services is available should an emergency occur. Overall, Dubai remains a safe city for both residents and tourists alike.
How is expat life in Dubai?
Living as an expatriate in Dubai is an incredibly rewarding experience. The country is known for its welcoming atmosphere, modern infrastructure, and stunning architecture. Those looking to immerse themselves in Arabian culture will find plenty of opportunity to do so, with festivals and events all year round. Dubai is also known for its high standard of living, with excellent healthcare, transport, and plenty of employment opportunities. However, the high cost of living in Dubai can be an issue, and expats should remember to budget and plan accordingly. Additionally, expats should check the laws and regulations of the country, as the layout of these differs from what they might be used to at home. Despite these challenges, expats who are up for the adventure of living in Dubai can find life there to be incredibly enjoyable and fulfilling.
What is the cost of living in Dubai?
- Rent: Depending on the neighbourhood, rental costs of studio and one-bedroom apartments can start from AED 500 – 10,000 ($136 – 2,722) per month.
- Food: Basic meals can cost AED 30 – 50 ($8 – 14) per person, and a meal for two at a mid-priced restaurant may cost around AED 200 ($54).
- Transportation: Public transportation costs AED 2-5 ($0.5-1.3) depending on the trip. Taxis cost AED 40-50 ($11-13).
- Entertainment: Movie tickets are AED 25-45 ($7 – 12), while a cup of coffee is usually around AED 15 ($4). The cost of entrance tickets to most popular attractions such as the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo starts from AED 70 ($18).
What are the different neighbourhoods in Dubai?
| Neighbourhood | Characteristics | Types of Residents |
|---|---|---|
| Old Dubai | Rich History | Tourist, locals, expats |
| Burj Khalifa and Downtown Individuals | Luxury shopping | Highly affluent |
| Mall of the Emirates families | Lively entertainment | Young professionals, |
| Jumeirah Beach Residence travellers | Beautiful beaches | Expatriates, luxury |
| Al Quoz | Up-and-coming area | Investors, artists |
| Umm Suqeim | Family friendly | Families, professionals |
| Dubai Marina travellers | Marina vibes | Creative professionals, luxury |
What are some famous residential areas in Dubai?
- Dubai Marina: This vibrant residential area is located in the heart of Dubai. Overlooking Dubai’s iconic skyline, Dubai Marina is home to numerous restaurants, shops, luxurious residences, and malls.
- Business Bay: This newly developed area is located in the heart of Dubai’s financial district. Along with its luxurious residential complexes, Business Bay is home to many of the city’s prestigious businesses and organizations.
- The Greens: Located close to the Dubai Marina, The Greens is a vibrantly designed community known for its excellent amenities, including parks, pools, and a golf course.
- The Palm Jumeirah: This world-famous development features a multitude of luxury residences and hotels, as well as some of the city’s trendiest restaurants and nightlife spots.
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC): This up-and-coming residential area is becoming one of Dubai’s most sought-after neighbourhoods. It is known for its abundance of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as its well-maintained green spaces and lush gardens.
Properties Price Range and Market Trends
The current real estate climate in Dubai is hot, with a steady rise in property values and an influx of buyers from all over the world. Dubai is the destination of choice for people looking for an attractive, exotic city to invest in. The current property prices and market trends in the city reflect the steady influx of buyers and the improved outlook of Dubai as a great place to live and invest.
The average price for a 2-bedroom apartment in the city centre currently stands between AED 1.3-1.7 million, while a mid-range 4-room apartment may cost around AED 2.0-3.0 million. This range depends on the area, the availability of amenities, and convenience to employment centres, shopping, and leisure spots. In well-known areas like The Dubai Marina, The Palm Jumeirah, or Downtown Dubai, prices may be far higher.
Dubai is an ever-growing and evolving city, so many expats choose to rent apartments rather than buy. There is a wide range of residential areas and rents also vary widely, but the average rent is AED 64,000 for a two-bedroom apartment. The market remains healthy despite the current COVID-19 pandemic, with demand for rental properties continuing at a steady rate.
Overall, the market outlook for Dubai’s property market is very positive, with a range of options in different locations and price ranges. With secure supplies of housing, and a city being built with more space than ever before, it’s a great time for investors to get involved in the dynamic and vibrant Dubai real estate market.
Is it worth buying property in Dubai?
Buying property in Dubai comes with many potential benefits and potential challenges. Despite challenges, Dubai offers a variety of residential and commercial properties that offer attractive rental yields, stable capital appreciation, and high-quality lifestyle choices. Market trends for real estate in Dubai tend to be stable and have consistently seen growth in recent years. Recently, the area around Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) has become very popular due to attractive rental yields, increased infrastructure, and superior quality of life.
In addition to attractive rental yields, Dubai allows foreign investors to purchase real estate with no restrictions on capital from outside of the country. This has made Dubai an attractive investment destination for foreign investors and has caused an increase in demand and prices for property in the area.
Given that Metro Dubai is well-connected to the different parts of the city, as well as other parts of the region, living in JVC is a comfortable and convenient prospect. JVC boasts a wide array of lifestyle amenities and offers an attractive quality of life for its residents. Residency laws in Dubai are generally welcoming towards long term residence for expats, making JVC a very appealing place to settle in.
Despite the benefits of buying property in Dubai, there are a few potential challenges. Property costs in Dubai can be steep and government-imposed fees and taxes can be high. Due to the strict regulations and various fees, it is important to hire a reliable real estate expert to ensure that the entire process is seamless and smooth.
In conclusion, buying property in Dubai—especially in JVC—has its benefits, such as attractive rental yields and potential capital appreciation. However, potential challenges, such as high taxes and fees, should be considered when making a decision to invest in real estate in the area.
What are the most common property types that you can purchase in Dubai?
- Apartments: These are the most popular kind of property available in Dubai. Most are high-rise and offer a range of layouts and sizes, from one to three bedrooms. These usually come with balconies offering stunning views of the city. Many newer developments also offer luxurious amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and spas.
- Villas and Townhouses: Villas and townhouses are a great option for those looking for more privacy. These properties offer more space and come in a range of sizes, from two to five bedrooms. They also often come with large balconies or terraces, as well as private outdoor areas and gardens.
- Land: Buying a piece of land in Dubai is popular amongst investors. Land can be used for commercial or residential purposes, depending on what is approved for the area. Development restrictions and regulations should be checked to ensure whether the plot can be used for any specific purpose.
- Off-Plan Properties: Off-plan properties in Dubai are popular amongst investors as these allow buyers to purchase before construction is completed and see their asset’s value increase over a period of time. Off-plan properties come with payment plans, which are flexible and designed to meet the requirements of the investors.
- Industrial and Commercial Properties: Investors looking for commercial or industrial real estate will have to be extra vigilant in researching the desirable areas. These kinds of properties include warehouses, industrial plants, workshops, and other commercial space. They are usually more expensive than residential properties but also provide a high return on investment.
