Dubai is as family friendly as it is a paradise for singles and working professionals. Ranked one of the most secure cities in the world, Dubai is known as a safe haven for families from all over the world. Not only is Dubai safe and secure, but it is also built on a strong culture of family values, including a focus on world-class education and family-friendly lifestyle communities. Beyond this, you’ll also be happy to know that there are a vast number of family-friendly entertainment and leisure activities to ensure that you and the kids never have a dull day.
Before we begin our journey through the most desirable family neighbourhoods in Dubai, there are a few things you should consider before making a final decision.
Things to consider when choosing a family home in Dubai
First of all, don’t immediately commit to the first place you see. There are so many options that offer unique advantages and lifestyles, so it’s a good idea to explore thoroughly before making a final decision. Luckily, you have the option of staying in a fully-serviced hotel apartment in most neighbourhoods in Dubai without making any long-term commitment or signing a rental contact. This gives you the freedom to experience what life will be like for your family in various places and help you decide on the ideal location. You might even end up staying indefinitely in a hotel apartment that meets all your needs, as is the case with many families new to the city!
The most important points to consider when choosing a new home for your family are proximity to work, schools, supermarkets, parks, malls and other places you think your family is likely to want to visit often. Keep in mind though that Dubai does have a superb public transport system, so getting around quickly and efficiently shouldn’t be too much of a problem as long as you are close to major roads and metro stations. Something else you might want to think about as a new family in Dubai is residential areas within an expat community. This opens the door to more social opportunities with like-minded expats who can help you navigate your new life in Dubai.
Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of the city centre or a newly developing community neighbourhood nearby, and whether you’re on a tight budget or can afford to splurge a bit more on all the trimmings, here are some residential areas for you to explore:
AL BARSHA & BARSHA HEIGHTS
Al Barsha is potentially the most popular destination for expats moving to Dubai. In close proximity to 2 of the major arterial roads, Al Barsha is easily commutable for workers in Media City, Internet City and Emaar Business Park.
One of the greatest advantages about living in Al Barsha is the fact that it is easily accessible by both public transport users and those with their cars. Al Barsha 1 is serviced by two metro stations: Mall of the Emirates Metro Station and Mashreq Metro Station, with feeder buses also servicing other areas in Al Barsha. The Barsha Heights Metro Station is named Dubai Internet City, and has a walkway over Sheikh Zayed Road to Internet City.
Residents also won’t have to go far to find all basic amenities such as shops, convenience stores, places of worship and reputed schools in Al Barsha.
Prominent schools in the area include Kings School in Al Barsha 3 which follows the British curriculum and is mainly favoured by the British expats residing in the area. For the American/IB system, there is GEMS Dubai American Academy, The American School of Dubai, Dubai National School and Al Mawakeb School in Barsha Second.
Where to stay
The Adagio Premium Dubai Al Barsha aparthotel is located in Al Barsha on Sheikh Zayed Road and only a 5 minute walk from Mashreq Metro Station. Adagio is part of the Accor Hotels Group and one of their Extended stay brands. This property has 199 premium apartments well furnished and functional, and fitted with a fully-equipped kitchen. There are 1,2,3 and 4 bedroom apartment options.
Amenities:
- Swimming Pool
- Gym
- Laundry Facilities
- Coffee Shop
- Hotel Bar
- 24hr reception
- Parking
- Concierge
- Meeting Rooms
- Close to A Metro
Experience the convenience of hotel apartment living with monthly payment options and all bills included. Located in the centre of Dubai, makes this the perfect place for those on the go. Offering convenient access to the metro station, as well as three of the City’s major roads, including Sheikh Zayed Road, both ways. The Apartments offer a good size space with good amenities for long stay guests.
Amenities:
- Swimming Pool
- Gym
- Laundry Facilities
- Coffee Shop
- Parking
- Close to A Metro
DUBAI SILICON OASIS
Silicon Oasis is a particularly popular neighbourhood for expats because of its strategic location between Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and Dubai-Al Ain Road, close proximity to schools, and it's affordable rental prices.
Affectionately known as the “city within a city”, Silicon Oasis started as a hub for tech start-ups but has since also grown into a vibrant residential district. Some of the best universities in Dubai are located nearby in the neighbouring community of Academic City. These include Heriot-Watt University Dubai and Manipal University Dubai.
Where to stay
Discover a refreshingly different way to stay in Dubai’s tech playground at Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis. Located in Dubai Digital Park, Dubai’s first smart city project built with the latest AI and IOT technologies, our cool spaces are packed with personality and style.
Get comfortable in our stylish hotel in Dubai, featuring spacious rooms and apartments with everything you need and nothing you don’t. Filled with bold statement design and dressed in bespoke wallpaper, you’ll find a kitchenette with all required facilities for long stays, comfy king-size beds, rain showers, bedside USB ports, and fast and free Wi-Fi throughout. Choose from a range of studio, 1 or 2-bedroom apartments in the heart of Dubai Silicon Oasis.
Amenities:
- Swimming Pool
- Gym
- Laundry Facilities
- Work Space
- Coffee Shop
- Restaurant
- Hotel Bar
- Pet Friendly
- Parking
- Meeting Rooms
- Spa
- Business Facilities
AL JADDAF
A prime location in the heart of Dubai, Al Jaddaf promises an active lifestyle with many outdoor activities for fitness freaks and sports lovers. Located west of the Dubai Creek, in close proximity to the business hub of Dubai as well as prominent schools, it is well positioned for working professionals and families alike. Access to public transport is easy via the Al Jaddaf Metro Station which is served by the Green Line of Dubai Metro.
Notable schools near Al Jaddaf include Dubai English Speaking School (DESS) and Dubai Gem Private School. These are two of the most notable schools in Dubai, a short drive away from here. Al Jaddaf is also home to Swiss International Scientific School.
Where to stay
The Occidental Al Jaddaf is a new hotel concept located close to Dubai Creek and with easy access to Downtown Dubai. The modern rooms and the comprehensive facilities make this hotel an excellent choice for both leisure and business long-stay guests.
With 365 large, bright rooms and suites featuring avant-garde design are fitted with every amenity convenient for your stay. The proximity to Dubai International Airport, Healthcare City, DIFC and Downtown, make the Occidental Al Jaddaf a sensible location choice. The Stage Lounge & Bar is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset and views of Dubai, including the Burj Khalifa.
Amenities:
- Swimming Pool
- On Site Shop
- Gym
- Laundry Facilities
- Work Space
- Coffee Shop
- Restaurant
- Hotel Bar
- Parking
- Concierge
- Meeting Rooms
- Spa
- Salon
- Room Service
- Business Facilities
- Close to A Metro
DOWNTOWN DUBAI
Home to the world’s tallest tower, Burj Khalifa, as well as the Dubai Mall and Dancing Fountains, Downtown Dubai is one of the city’s most popular tourism hubs. Dubbed by many as the “centre of now”, residents will enjoy a contemporary, family-friendly lifestyle with the perks of luxury homes, and world-class shopping and entertainment experiences.
While Downtown Dubai is a good option for expat families, bear in mind that you’ll have to deal with the hustle and bustle of the city.
Apart from the many taxis that service the area, bus stops on the F13 route, as well as The Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa Metro Station and Emirates Towers Metro Station are available to those relying on public transportation in Downtown Dubai.
While there aren’t any schools in Downtown Dubai itself, schools in the neighbouring localities are not more than a 15-minute drive away.
Where to stay
Rove Downtown offers everything you need to explore Dubai without borders. You can stay for as long as you like and enjoy fully-serviced convenience and affordability without having to commit to a long-term rental contract.
Expect comfortably-sized Rover Rooms packed full of essentials, free Wi-Fi, a 48” interactive in-room TV, friendly service and plenty of leisure options with a 24-hour gym, an outdoor pool and sundeck, as well as lots of games in common areas.
Amenities:
- Swimming Pool
- On-site Shop
- Gym
- Laundry Facilities
- Work Space
- Coffee Shop
- Restaurant
- Hotel Bar
- Parking
- Meeting Rooms
Soaring high above Dubai’s financial district, Jumeirah Emirates Towers is one of the region’s most iconic buildings.
Comprising two equilateral triangles, this landmark structure is home to 400 rooms and suites with 11 world-class restaurants and nightlife venues and The Boulevard - an upscale retail and dining complex. Located minutes from Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Dubai World Trade Centre and The Dubai Mall, Jumeirah Emirates Towers is Dubai’s leading city lifestyle destination and a place where guests can effortlessly switch between business and leisure.
Amenities:
- Swimming Pool
- On Site Shop
- Gym
- Laundry Facilities
- Work Space
- Coffee Shop
- Restaurant
- Hotel Bar
- Parking
- Concierge
- Meeting Rooms
- Spa
- Salon
- Room Service
- Business Facilities
- Close to A Metro
DUBAI MARINA & JBR
Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence (fondly dubbed JBR) are considered to be among the trendiest places to live in Dubai, with a wide variety of modern attractions and things to do. Ideally suited for young singles and couples who enjoy fine dining, luxury shopping, beach combing and a buzzing nightlife, Dubai Marina and JBR promise all of this as well as easy access to the rest of the city. However, many families also call Dubai Marina and JBR their home because of it’s ideal location on the waterfront and family-friendly attractions and activities.
There are two metro stations nearby: Damac Properties Metro Station and DMCC Metro Station, both of which provide a quick way for working professionals to get to work and back.
Schools are located in nearby areas such as Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim and The Springs. These include Horizon International School, Dubai British School.
Where to stay
Rove Dubai Marina gives great access to the Marina area including Marina Mall and the Beach, and Jumeirah Beach Residence is within walking distance. It's also only a short hop to Jumeirah Lake Towers, Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters Island. Marina living is fun! Lots of shops and restaurants, as well as the beach are all nearby.
Expect comfortably-sized Rover Rooms packed full of essentials, free Wi-Fi, a 48” interactive in-room TV, friendly service and plenty of leisure options with The Daily Restaurant, an outdoor pool and 24-hour gym, as well as lots of common areas for work, play or relaxing.
Amenities:
- Swimming Pool
- On Site Shop
- Gym
- Laundry Facilities
- Work Space
- Restaurant
- Parking
- Meeting Rooms
- Close to A Metro
Jumeirah Living Marina Gate offers a luxury hospitality experience. Located in Dubai Marina’s Waterfront and surrounded by restaurants, malls and services. Marina residents have access to Jumeirah’s impeccable standards for a curated lifestyle with 104 serviced apartments, plus private residences and 15 villas.
The 104 residential suites feature views of the waterfront, with full-height glass window walls. Suites include a balcony, a bedroom with a private bathroom, a separate living area and a fully equipped open-plan kitchen.
Amenities:
- Swimming Pool
- On-site Shop
- Gym
- Laundry Facilities
- Coffee Shop
- Restaurant
- Hotel Bar
- Parking
- Concierge
- Meeting Rooms
- Spa
- Room Service
- Business Facilities
Located in Jumeirah Beach Residence with the beach and everything you need conveniently located within easy walking distance.
Beautifully appointed, fully furnished accommodation that is well equipped to quality standards, offering the added flexibility of providing self-catering facilities, makes these ideal apartments for families or long stays. The sophisticated decoration and functional furnishing of these apartments near the beach also makes for a home away from home.
Amenities:
- Swimming Pool
- On-site Shop
- Gym
- Laundry Facilities
- Restaurant
- Parking
- Concierge
- Spa
- Room Service
DUBAI MEDIA CITY
Dubai Media City is a reflection of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s vision of transforming Dubai into a knowledge-based society. Following his concept, it was designed to be the headquarters for global and local media houses. Established in the year 2000, Dubai Media City has grown into a regional hub for media companies, where a community of freelancers, SMEs, start-ups and large enterprises co-exist. The integrated infrastructure has made it a hotspot for the development of media industries.
The area is reachable by metro, tram and buses, and also has a number of supermarkets, schools and health facilities in the vicinity. Media City is also located close to Dubai Knowledge Park, a free zone with the purpose of developing the talent pool in the UAE and promoting the region as a knowledge-based economy.
Where to stay
Fully equipped suites and apartments offer you a home away from home for your long term stay in Dubai. Feel at home at Arjaan by Rotana Dubai Media City, where your comfort is a priority.
Choose from a variety of fully furnished 1, 2 & 3-bedroom apartments in the heart of new Dubai. This 4 star property provides all spaces with a living, dining and kitchen area and is ideal for any long staying guest.
Amenities:
- Swimming Pool
- On Site Shop
- Gym
- Laundry Facilities
- Work Space
- Coffee Shop
- Restaurant
- Hotel Bar
- Parking
- Concierge
- Meeting Rooms
- Room Service
- Business Facilities
- Close to A Metro
Situated on Sheikh Zayed Road, alongside Media City, Internet City and Sufouh Beach, La Suites Dubai offers 4-star, deluxe serviced apartments which occupy the top 23 levels of Sidra Tower with breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and the Dubai cityscape. With 265 hotel rooms and luxurious studio, one, two and spectacular three-bedroom penthouses, there is ample choice for the discerning businessman, families and leisure travellers seeking space and superb facilities for an extended stay.
La Suites has all the amenities you would expect of this level of serviced accommodation, plus kids club, squash court and tennis court.
Amenities:
- Swimming Pool
- On Site Shop
- Gym
- Laundry Facilities
- Work Space
- Coffee Shop
- Restaurant
- Parking
- Concierge
- Meeting Rooms
- Spa Salon
- Room Service
- Business Facilities
- Close to A Metro
LOCATIONS CLOSE TO EXPO 2020
The much anticipated Expo 2020 Dubai is almost upon us, and the excitement is tangible! Having been postponed in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic, the Expo 2020 will now officially take place from 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022. With so much to see and do during the Expo 2020, you’ll need a comfortable, accessible place to rest your head each night. Rates will inevitably increase from the current price levels for the Expo period, but there are some great accommodation options to check out.
Where to stay
For a 5-star hotel, boutique experience, only 15 minutes from Expo, this hotel provides a great base for any long stay in Dubai. This 5 star property is ideally located with shopping and retail stores on your doorstep and beaches close by. Enjoy easy access to JBR beach, Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Lake Towers, plus, it’s only 15 minutes drive from Expo 2020 and 30 minutes from both of the Dubai Airports.
An Iconic building, the architecture, style and intricate designs are influenced by the adventurer Ibn Battuta's travels. Choose from rooms, suites and apartments, as well as great on-site amenities including 4 restaurants, rooftop pool, spa, gym, salon and conference & meeting facilities.
Amenities:
- Swimming Pool
- On-site Shop
- Gym
- Laundry Facilities
- Work space
- Coffee Shop
- Restaurant
- Hotel Bar
- Parking
- Concierge
- Meeting Rooms
- Spa
- Salon
- Room Service
- Business Facilities
- Close to a Metro
Rove At The Park provides a fantastic option for long-stay guests. It is located moments from three world-class amusement parks and walking distance from the Dubai Outlet Village. Expo 2020 and Dubai South are a short drive away with Dubai Marina and JBR only 20 minutes away.
Expect comfortably-sized Rover Rooms packed full of essentials, free Wi-Fi, a 48” interactive in-room TV, friendly service and plenty of leisure options with The Daily Restaurant, an outdoor pool and 24-hour gym. As well as lots of common areas for work, play or relaxing.
Amenities:
- Swimming Pool
- On Site Shop
- Gym
- Laundry Facilities
- Restaurant
- Parking
- Meeting Rooms
