According to a new 2023 global survey, the UAE was ranked the 18th best destination for expats to live and work, out of 59 destinations in the world. The survey highlights expats’ positive reviews regarding the UAE’s safety and stability, travel opportunities, world-class health and transportation infrastructures, as well as a general quality of life and the ease of settling in. Although there isn’t really a “bad” place to live in Dubai, there are certainly some areas primed for young professionals and families coming from abroad.
Let’s begin our journey through the top 12 places in Dubai for expats to live!
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.
Rove Downtown - From AED 7,499 per month
Downtown Dubai, Dubai, UAE
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.
Manzil Downtown - From AED 12,250 per month
Downtown Dubai, Dubai, UAE
Live the ultimate Arabesque experience in the heart of Dubai. Located in the Old Town District of Downtown Dubai, Manzil Downtown, a 10-minute walk from Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, combines traditional Arabesque architecture with contemporary design.
Manzil Downtown features free WiFi in all areas, an outdoor swimming pool with sun loungers that overlook the skyline views. Wall-mounted satellite LCD TVs, free bottled water, tea and coffee facilities in all rooms and 24-hour room service available. Guests can enjoy dining al fresco in the central Arabian-style Courtyard or at Nezesaussi Grill, the ultimate sports hub. The hotel also has a state-of-the-art 24-hour fitness centre and business centre.
Vida Downtown - From AED 12,250 per month
Downtown Dubai, Dubai, UAE
Located in the Old Town District of Downtown Dubai, Vida Downtown, a 10-minute walk from Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, provides a contemporary boutique feel.
This property is a great option for an extended stay with deluxe interior decorations and designer furnishings distinguishing all rooms at Vida Downtown. Each one features unique bathrooms with separate bath and shower; in-room media includes free internet and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels.
The hotel features an outdoor pool, gym, business centre and a contemporary restaurant, 3in1 Vida Downtown.
Sofitel Dubai Downtown From AED 17,400 per month
Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE
Located in the buzzing heart of Dubai, across from the Burj Khalifa, Sofitel Dubai Downtown offers an unforgettable immersion in the art and culture of the Emirates combined with French “art de vivre” and contemporary sophistication.
It is the only international 5-star hotel linked to Dubai Mall through an air-conditioned skywalk and to Emaar Square. Apart from the immediate prime proximity to Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, the hotel is walking distance to Burj Khalifa Metro station and a few minutes away from DIFC, Dubai Opera, City Walk. It also offers a shuttle bus service to Kite Beach and La Mer Beach, plus other destinations across Dubai.
The hotel itself has all the expected amenities and more, for this grade and style of hotel - a perfect option for any extended stay in Dubai!
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.
Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis - From AED 8,000 per month
Silicon Oasis, Dubai, UAE
Located in Dubai Digital Park, Dubai’s first smart city project built with the latest AI and IOT technologies. Radisson RED Silicon Oasis has cool spaces that are packed with personality and style.
This is a great option for long-term stay with a range of comfortable rooms, suites and apartments to choose from. The hotel has a number of amenities, chill at the rooftop swimming pool, fitness centre and with several great places to eat and drink 24hrs a day.
Plenty of room options to suit your needs but all rooms have a desk, a flat-screen TV with casting and private bathroom. The apartments are very specious and the hotel also has interconnecting rooms available for families.
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.
Arjaan By Rotana Hotel Apartment - From AED 7,000 per month
Media City, Dubai, UAE
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.
La Suite Dubai - From AED 4,400 per month
Dubai Media City, Dubai, UAE
Situated on Sheikh Zayed Road, alongside Media City, Internet City and Sufouh Beach, La Suite 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 Suite has all the amenities you would expect of this level of serviced accommodation, plus kids club, squash court and tennis court.
Living in Dubai Creek feels like a neverending waterfront vacation, with gorgeous views, cool waters and loads of luxury amenities. This wildlife haven is also home to over 450 animal species including the renowned pink flamingos, so residents have the combined benefit of being connected to nature and in close proximity to key locations in Dubai.
Al Bandar Arjaan Creek - From AED 8,000 per month
Dubai Creek, Dubai, UAE
Al Bandar Arjaan is located on the north shore of Dubai Creek. The property has excellent facilities and all that you would expect of a Dubai 5-Star hotel apartment complex.
A modern, architecturally-impressive property is connected to the Al Bandar Rotana, creating a Creekside destination for both business and leisure. Dubai International Airport is only a few minutes drive away, and it's convenient for Dubai World Trade Centre and the Diplomatic District.
Major tourist attractions are right on the doorstep too - from malls to the world-famous Souks. The new Al Seef destination is rooted in Dubai’s culture and heritage, with a charming atmosphere that fuses the heritage and modernity of the Emirate. The Dubai Creek Harbour development is also a short drive away, home to live music, DJ sets, movie screenings and unusual casual dining concepts.
A developing residential area, Al Warsan offers contemporary desert living a little further away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Here you can enjoy easy access to some of Dubai’s natural attractions, including the safari park, lakes and mountains. An ideal location for adventurous families who enjoy the outdoors.
Melia Desert Palm Resort - From AED 55,000 per month
Al Awir Road, Dubai, UAE
Set amidst a 160-acre polo estate with contemporary design. A mere 20 kilometres from Dubai’s urban centre, you may find yourself in the lush serenity and sophistication of Meliá Desert Palm.
The hotel is located opposite Dubai Safari Park and overlooks the main championship polo field. From creative restaurants and bars showcasing culinary exhibitionism to indulgent journeys at Samāna Spa.
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.
Suha JBR Hotel Apartments - From AED 8,250 per month
Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai, UAE
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 equipped to the highest 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 our apartments near the beach also makes for a home away from home.
Rove Dubai Marina - From AED 5,999 per month
Dubai Marina, Dubai, UAE
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.
Jumeirah Living Marina Gate - From AED 18,000 per month
Dubai Marina, Dubai, UAE
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.
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. 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.
Adagio Premium Dubai Al Barsha - From AED 8,000 per month
Al Barsha, Dubai, UAE
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.
Grand Heights Hotel Apartments - From AED 7,200 per month
Barsha Heights, Dubai, UAE
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.
Ibis Al Barsha - From AED 3,999 per month
Al Barsha, Dubai, UAE
Comfort on a budget! Conveniently located along Sheikh Zayed Road, the newly renovated Ibis Al Barsha provides a modern yet relaxed vibe offering spacious rooms with a variety of dining options and two meeting rooms. The lobby doubles up as a co-working space or lounge, where you can enjoy a post-work drink and a game of foosball or billiards. This location is perfect for quick access to Sheikh Zayed Road both Dubai and Abu Dhabi bound. Mashreq Metro Station is just a few minutes away, and the Mall of the Emirates, Barsha Heights and Dubai Media City are all also easily accessible.
Embrace your inner child in the Middle East’s largest integrated theme park destination, featuring Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, Legoland Dubai, and Legoland Water Park, all in one incredible location! With over 100 thrilling rides, record-breaking swing ride, family-friendly attractions and captivating live shows, could you think of a better place to spend your days? Ideal for young-at-heart thrill seekers!
Rove At The Park - From AED 2,999 per month
Expo 2020, Dubai, UAE
Rove At The Park is a few steps 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.
A great value option for long-term stay. The hotel has a number of amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, a 24-hour fitness centre, a restaurant and lounge.
All rooms have a desk, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. Interconnected rooms are available for families.
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, it is well positioned for working professionals.
Occidental Al Jaddaf - From AED 13,700
Al Jaddaf, Dubai, UA
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.
Suha Park Hotel Apartments - From AED 6,270 per month
Al Jaddaf, Dubai, UAE
A contemporary design and lavish details highlight the Suha Park Hotel Apartments, Waterfront, Al Jaddaf. Ideal for long stay guests on leisure, or business. Relax in elegant surroundings with fully furnished apartments located within walking distance of the Jaddaf Metro Station and Jaddaf Creek Waterfront.
For laid back, lakeside living close to Dubai Marina (without the price tag!), head to Jumeirah Lake Towers. Residents enjoy a mixed-use community with a friendly vibe and year-round events and entertainment attractions.
Bonnington Jumeirah Lake Towers - From AED 9,500 per month
Jumeirah Lake Towers, Dubai, UAE
Luxury, style and exceptional service. Ideally located in the heart of Jumeirah Lakes Towers along Sheikh Zayed Road, opposite Dubai Marina.
The hotel is within walking distance of restaurants, bars, the metro line and a short drive to a number of malls, JBR beach, and some of the World’s top golf courses, making the Bonnington Hotel an ideal location.
Bur Dubai is one of the most popular places to stay in the city. The luxurious neighborhood is close to public transportation, the convention center and a myriad of attractions and shopping, from the Dubai Museum to BurJuman mall. Bur Dubai is also brimming with popular attractions waiting to be explored. Travel back in time as you follow the enchanting alleyways and enjoy a day of culture and tradition while admiring the well-preserved original architecture, expertly repurposed to ensure that it does not lose its traditional old Dubai feel.
Suha Mina Rashid Hotel Apartments - From AED 5,850 per month
Bur Dubai, Dubai, UAE
Enjoy all that this charming and vibrant district has to offer during your stay at Suha Mina Rashid Hotel Apartments. Offering a tranquil ambience with a modern design to ensure an enjoyable long stay in Dubai. Over 21 floors, the fully-furnished suites and apartments all have a fully equipped kitchen and flat screen TV.
Rove Healthcare City - From AED 4,999 per month
Bur Dubai, Dubai, UAE
Rove Healthcare City gives great access to both Downtown Dubai and the historic neighbourhoods of The Creek, and Deira are just minutes away. Access to Sheikh Zayed Road both Dubai or Abu Dhabi bound is very easy and only 10 minutes away from Dubai Mall.
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. Rove Long-stay guests can expect lots of benefits too.
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