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In this series of articles, we will be exploring and reviewing the various neighborhoods that make up the city of Dubai, specifically for new residents seeking to settle down in the city.
Dubai is a city of countless communities, each offering its own unique blend of amenities and lifestyle opportunities. With so many options, the task of finding the perfect home can be overwhelming. But fear not, here we aim to guide you through the maze of neighborhoods and help you discover the one that best fits your needs and lifestyle.
Our previous article covered some of the most captivating communities in Dubai, and now it’s time to uncover even more hidden gems that make this city truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned resident or just starting your journey in this vibrant metropolis, these guides aim to provide you with a comprehensive overview of what each neighborhood has to offer.
Al Sufouh
Nestled along the western coast of Dubai and at the foot of the iconic Palm Jumeirah, Al Sufouh has established itself as one of the city’s most prestigious communities. The neighborhood is home to several world-famous universities, as well as bustling commercial centers, providing endless opportunities for education and career advancement. Properties in Al Sufouh are highly coveted, and the area is renowned for its high standard of living.
The neighborhood is also a hub for technology, media, and education. It includes several clusters of sub-communities, such as Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, and Dubai Knowledge Village. These areas offer cutting-edge resources and facilities to support the city’s innovative spirit.
In addition to its educational and professional offerings, the community has a tranquil, yet posh atmosphere within the bustling city. With everything you could ever need just a stone’s throw away, you’ll never have to venture far from the comfort of your own neighborhood to enjoy all the conveniences of city living.
For families, the community is a dream come true. Children can run and play in the well-maintained parks, while parents can indulge in some much-needed downtime at one of the many cafes or restaurants in the area. The community is equipped with a variety of shops, including supermarkets and specialty stores, where you can find everything from fresh produce to unique gifts.
If you’re in the mood for a truly immersive shopping experience, a visit to the Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a must. This Middle Eastern-style open market offers a modern take on the old-fashioned marketplace, with a diverse range of stores and eateries to explore. For a more upscale shopping experience, head over to the Mall of the Emirates, which is the second-largest mall in Dubai. Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, this magnificent 4-floor shopping complex has high-street fashion and luxury brands that are sure to leave you feeling pampered and spoilt for choice.
For those in search of culinary delights, Al Sufouh is a veritable paradise. From the delectable dining options in the Mall of the Emirates to the diverse dining experiences along Sheikh Zayed Road, this neighborhood is studded with lavish casual and fine dining options.
And let’s not forget about Al Sufouh Beach. Nicknamed as “the secret beach” or “the Black Palace Beach,” this hidden gem is tucked away behind a dense row of palm trees and nestled between two marvels of Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Burj Al Arab. Stretching 2.5 km and over 150 meters wide, this quiet and scenic spot is perfect for long walks, picnics, kite flying, and outdoor beach games like volleyball.
With three Dubai metro stations and several tram stops in the area, commuting to other areas of the city is effortless. Meanwhile, Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Wasl Road provide easy access to destinations like Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, and Al Barsha.
Dubai Media City
Dubai Media City, established in the year 2000, is a place where creativity meets opportunity. Home to over 1,500 companies, including the offices of some of the biggest names in media such as BBC, MBC, CNN, Forbes, Thomson Reuters, and ITP Media Group, this area is the primary commercial district for the digital, publishing, and electronic media sectors.
Despite being a hub for media companies, the community is also a great place to live for working professionals and families, with its diverse range of housing options, convenient transportation links, and ample recreational opportunities.
The neighborhood boasts a skyline dotted with skyscrapers and high-rise towers, showcasing modern engineering and state-of-the-art architecture. The main types of accommodation are apartments and there is a limited number of luxurious villas.
In terms of lifestyle, Dubai Media City is a convenient location surrounded by a wealth of leisure options, providing endless opportunities for residents to relax, unwind, and indulge in their favorite activities. The mesmerizing Al Sufouh Beach is just a mile away, and the bustling areas of Dubai Marina and JBR are within close proximity. If shopping is your thing, larger malls such as Mall of the Emirates and Dubai Marina Mall are under 10 minutes away, and the famous Dubai Mall is just 15 minutes away from the community.
For those who love to dine out, Dubai Media City is a foodie’s paradise, offering an abundance of cafes and restaurants to choose from. The popular hotels of Radisson Blu and Arjaan by Rotana also offer top-notch fine dining options, making it a destination for those who appreciate good food and drinks.
For non-drivers relying on public transportation, Media City is the perfect place to call home. This neighborhood is easily accessible via multiple modes of transportation, including the metro, tram, and bus. This means that you can travel around Dubai with ease, without having to worry about the hassle of driving or finding parking.
Dubai Sports City
Dubai Sports City, located in the western part of Dubai, is the perfect blend of sport, community, and leisure. This suburb area, designed to be a hub for athletic activities, boasts major sporting venues and academies at its center. From football pitches to the International Cricket Council (ICC) training academy and the world-class Els Golf Club, there’s something for every sports fan.
But you don’t have to be a sports fanatic to enjoy life in Dubai Sports City. The neighborhood offers a calm and budget-friendly environment, surrounded by lush greenery, which is suitable for young couples and families, as well as those who just moved to Dubai and want to save money on accommodation while enjoying a peaceful lifestyle.
As the name suggests, when it comes to big sporting events and festivals, Dubai Sports City is at the center of the action, with a lively atmosphere that transforms the area into a buzzing venue. But it is not just a destination for sports enthusiasts, it’s a feast for the senses as well. The community is a food lover’s haven, with a stunning array of trendy restaurants and dining venues to choose from. For those looking to relax, the area is also home to several clubs that offer creative cocktails and a peaceful escape.
Although located away from the bustling downtown, Dubai Sports City is easily accessible via major roadways such as Hessa Street, Al Khail Road, and Sheikh Zayed Road. There are no metro stations in the area, but the community is well-connected by bus links, providing residents with easy access to other major areas in the city.
Jumeirah Village Circle
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) is a new community located in the central part of New Dubai. New Dubai is a rapidly developing area south of Dubai Marina known for its modern architecture, luxury resorts, high-end shopping malls, and iconic attractions like Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah.
JVC is a mega-development featuring modern villas, apartments, and townhouses, all equipped with top-notch amenities in a peaceful environment. The community offers slightly cheaper rents compared to other residential neighborhoods in New Dubai, making it an attractive option for those looking for an affordable yet stylish place to call home.
The most striking thing about Jumeirah Village Circle is the abundance of greenery in the area. With 33 landscaped parks connecting the sub-communities, it provides residents with scenic views of lush landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities such as jogging and strolling along the tracks under the canopy of maintained trees. The community is also home to several schools, fitness centers, clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies, making it a great option for families. However, since it’s a relatively new development, currently it doesn’t have a lot to offer in terms of shopping and dining.
While the location of the neighborhood may be far from the city center, it is still conveniently connected and accessible to most areas of the emirate for residents with cars. Popular destinations such as Dubai Marina and JBR are just a 20-minute drive away. However, for non-driving residents, accessing the development is not as easy since it is currently not served by public transport, so they mainly need to rely on taxis to get around the area.
An alternative solution is to have a professional chauffeur on hand. By downloading the Blacklane app, you can easily access a network of local and experienced chauffeurs, ready to provide you with personalized and reliable transportation services whenever you need them. Whether you have a busy schedule or simply prefer to travel in style, this could be the perfect solution for those seeking convenience and comfort in their daily commutes.
Oud Metha
Tucked away between Al Karama and Al Garhoud lies the residential community of Oud Metha, also known as Al Nasr. This little suburb has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years and has now become a thriving hub that caters to all tastes and budgets.
Despite its central location and close proximity to a range of urban amenities, the community has maintained its position as one of the preferred options for those looking for affordable accommodations in Dubai. However, being situated in the old Dubai area, Oud Metha doesn’t quite offer the same charm as the newer parts of the city. The area is primarily comprised of low-rise apartment buildings, with properties available in studio to 3-bedroom configurations.
While it may be distant from Downtown Dubai, the convenient location of the neighborhood means that everything you need is within easy reach. If you love shopping, the WAFI Mall is just a 5-minute drive away and offers a unique shopping experience, with its Egyptian-style design and array of fashion and department stores. Meanwhile, the Zabeel Furniture Mall and Dubai Outlet Mall are just a 10-minute drive.
Food lovers will be pleased to know that Oud Metha is home to a wide variety of restaurants serving a range of cuisines, from Indian and Pakistani to Lebanese and Turkish. Additionally, the area has several supermarkets, pharmacies, and other essential services, making it a comfortable place to live.
The neighborhood is well-connected to the road network and public transport links, making it easy to get around, although it can get crowded during peak hours. With its affordable rents, prime location, and range of urban amenities, it’s no wonder Oud Metha is one of Dubai’s most sought-after residential areas.
