Where do expats and locals live in Dubai?

Dubai is a dream destination for many. Whether it is for tourism or settling in, the city is at the top of its game compared to the rest of the world when it comes to modern and safe lifestyle. However, Dubai is not only about the glittering skyline we see in pictures and the glamor lifestyle we come across on social media, but it also includes the residential areas that include villas and townhouses away from the hustle bustle of the city. This is where most expats and locals live in Dubai.

Dubai Population : locals live in Dubai

Expatriates cover the majority of the city’s population. Approximately, 85% of Dubai’s population are expatriates. Only 15% of the population consists of native citizens.

Where do expats and locals reside in Dubai locals live in Dubai

Dubai is home for people from all around the world. There are different communities residing in Dubai based on various factors like – budget, leisure requirements, nationalities, convenience, etc.

Most expatriates choose to live in communities that resonate with their nativity, while others prefer a more diverse lifestyle, whereas the locals prefer to live in villas and mansions away from the commotion of daily life, in a family friendly neighborhood that includes convenience and amenities.

Let us find out where do locals and expats live in Dubai.

The locals/Emiratis live in these areas in Dubai:

• Mirdiff: A perfect residential area for families. It is close to the Dubai International Airport. The locality has everything necessary like supermarkets, restaurants, pet salons, a food court and entertainment activities. An easy access to the Mirdiff City Center to fulfill all your retail and entertainment needs. Schools are available in close proximity, as well. Enjoy a modern and simple lifestyle in Mirdiff at a starting price of AED 8,000 per month.

• Al Khawaneej: One of the farming communities in a large desert area, Al Khawaneej has the majority of Emirati nationals living here. The area includes the Last Exit, a renowned hangout spot with food trucks and instagrammable aesthetics. Being a center for agricultural practices, this community includes a variety of outdoor activities, lakes, stables etc. Al Khawaneej has many residential villas that can be rented at approximately AED 200,000 per year with units of 5 bedrooms or more.

• Al Barsha 2 / Al Barsha South: The area consists of a majority of close gated villas. The locals reside here with their families. One can buy a villa in this community for AED 5,000,000 approximately.
• Jumeirah / Umm Suqeim: You will find a lot of villas by the sea shore here. Located close to the calmness of the oceans and the convenience of stores and health care clinics. A perfect suburb lifestyle achieved by the citizens in this locality. The villas are available for sale in Jumeirah and Umm Suqeim at a starting price of AED 1,200,000.
• Emirates Hills / The Springs: These are gated communities that consist of townhouses and villas where the citizens mostly reside with their entire family. The community includes beautiful lakes, a tranquil environment and luscious green surroundings and has amenities like swimming pool, kids’ playing areas etc. It is a family friendly area. The prices for villas here start at AED 8,000,000.

The most common places expats choose to reside in Dubai

• Dubai Marina: Leisure lifestyle at its best. The youth individuals and couples mostly reside here mainly for its abundance of nightlife, leisure dining and stunning views. Public transport is easily accessible. The stunning Jumeirah Beach is close by to enjoy the sandy and beachy lifestyle. An ultra modern living lifestyle can be yours at a starting price of AED 580,000 and can be rented at a starting price of AED 6,000 per month. Dubai Marina mostly has 1 – 2 bedroom apartments only.

• Business Bay: As the name suggests, Business bay is the center of numerous businesses located in offices in high-rise skyscrapers. A busy lifestyle surrounded by a hustle-minded crowd. This hub of growth and progress includes plenty of residential and commercial spaces.

The starting price to rent an apartment in Dubai’s most busy area is AED 57,000 per month.

• Jumeirah: Jumeirah is a large area consisting of various communities i.e,

1. Jumeirah Lake Towers – Consists of plenty of commercial skyscrapers, restaurants, and residential spaces.
2. Jumeirah Beach Residence – As the name suggests, a home close to the beach. A perfect place for beach lovers. This pet-friendly community also provides many other amenities like – fast food and fine dining restaurants, salons and spas, supermarkets etc.
3. Palm Jumeirah – A luxury waterfront living on the man-made islands called The Palm with a convenient neighborhood with all essentials like supermarkets and hospitals. The starting price to enjoy the luxury at Jumeirah is AED 8,000 per month for studio apartments.

Both, expats and locals live in these places:

• Arabian Ranches: A place that feels home and speaks luxury. Arabian ranches is one of the most popular areas with luxurious villas and apartments surrounded by great schools, a beautiful equestrian center, hospitals, a lake and two mosques at its disposal. Not to forget, it houses a well maintained golf course, too.

The starting price to buy an apartment or villa in Arabian Ranches is AED 1,400,000 and AED 85,000 per month to rent.

• Downtown Dubai: Every shopping enthusiast’s dream is to live right next to a mall. Residents at Downtown Dubai enjoy easy access to the largest mall in UAE – Dubai Mall. The home to the Dubai Fountain, an Ice Rink and many other leisure and shopping activities. An ultra luxurious living lifestyle located right in the center of Dubai. The tallest building in the world – Burj Khalifa is located in Downtown Dubai.

Enjoy living at the hub of luxury and entertainment at a starting price of AED 7,000 per month for Studio Apartments.

Conclusion

Dubai offers great lifestyle opportunities suitable for people all around the world. The multicultural adaptation of the city is what attracted a number of residents. The locals prefer to live in the calm localities in Dubai compared to the busy communities. This city has been one of the few cities to bounce back from the COVID-19 crisis spectacularly, creating great real estate investment opportunities, making more people move in.

For more information on moving into Dubai and real estate queries, contact us.