Noteworthy Neighbourhoods in Dubai You May Not Know About

Everyone knows Dubai as the city of dreams and opulence, where soaring skyscrapers touch the heavens and luxury is a way of life. But what about the hidden treasures? Those neighbourhoods that don't make the headlines could be just what you're looking for. Are you on the hunt for a cosy place to live or a savvy investment opportunity? Well, you're in the right place.

In this article, we'll take you on a journey to explore Dubai's not-so-famous neighbourhoods. These are the places that might not show up on the tourist maps, but they still have a lot to offer. So, let's dive in and discover why these neighbourhoods are worth your attention. But first, what are the criteria for these neighbourhoods being “hidden gems”?

• Culture Village — Where Culture Meets Creativity
• Al Badia Hillside Village — Modern Living with an Arabian Touch
• Al Hudaiba — An Affordable Rental Community
• City of Arabia — A Freehold Area with Investment Potential
• Remraam — Tranquil Living with Modern Conveniences
• Tilal Al Ghaf — Resort-Like Living in Dubai

Why These Districts?

You know the popular residential areas in Dubai: Jumeirah Village Circle, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina. They’re great places to call home, and some are even better for investments. But with the spotlights continuously on them, it can get a little crowded.

The choice of these districts stems from the fact that they are often overshadowed by the city's more renowned and prominent areas. Each of these districts has unique attributes and offerings, which are not as widely recognized as those of famous districts. 

You might be thinking, well, the more popular locations must have a higher return on investment than the lesser-known neighbourhoods, but this isn’t necessarily the case. For instance, Al Badia has an ROI of 5.82% (more of this later), similar to Downtown Dubai’s 5.8% ROI. It’s all of the positives but with less of the hustle and bustle.

In these neighbourhoods, you can find the promise of significant investment potential due to ongoing developments and future growth prospects. Simultaneously, they provide a unique lifestyle experience, often offering a more tranquil and authentic side of Dubai than the bustling city centre.

Now, let’s walk through our list!

Culture Village — Where Culture Meets Creativity

The Dubai Culture Village project began in 2006 and is nestled near Al Jaddaf along the majestic Dubai Creek. This neighbourhood — which is a waterfront oasis — spans across an impressive 3.7 million square metres, which features a harmonious blend of residential towers, the opulent 5-star Palazzo Versace Dubai hotel, a picturesque harbour, exhibition centres, and a vibrant waterfront community set to flourish in the near future.

The Culture Village, as its name represents, is a blend of culture and architecture, making it a perfect spot for families, individuals, or even organisations looking to exist closer to Dubai's rich culture amidst the country's ever-growing modernization. This village is home to visual and performing art centres, museums, literary societies, cultural institutions, and schools of arts and creative design, opening a thriving market for creatives. 

Generally, the village is thoughtfully divided into 4 distinct districts: residential, commercial, retail, and shopping, making it the perfect hidden location for every kind of resident. 

It's strategically positioned between two major bridges, the Al Garhoud Bridge and Business Bay Crossing. These bridges provide easy access to critical areas such as Bur Dubai, Al Jaddaf, Downtown Dubai, and Business Bay, enhancing the value of living in Culture Village.

By The Numbers

For families looking to rent an apartment in Culture Village, a 4-bedroom apartment costs around USD 272,294 annually, while a 1-bedroom apartment costs anywhere from USD 59,000. 

For those interested in investment opportunities, consider buying an apartment in popular buildings like D1 Tower, Manazel Al Khor, or Dubai Wharf. 

Since creatives are a major population in the Culture Village, studio flats are also a significant part of this community. Studio flats typically for sale start at USD 152,484, while 1-bedroom apartments go for anything between USD 204,220 and USD 707,964. The luxurious 3 and 4-bedroom apartments, on the other hand, range from USD 1,674,608 to USD 4,084,411.

For those considering real estate investment in Culture Village, this district offers a reliable option. Apartments with smaller floor areas, including studios and 2 or 3-bedroom units, offer relatively quick ROI. On average, a small studio apartment in a multi-story residential complex can yield approximately 6% annually when rented out.

One of the advantages of investing in Culture Village real estate is its high liquidity, thanks to the well-developed surroundings and the affordability of housing prices, which have not yet reached their maximum values.

What Makes This Neighborhood Great?

• Culture Village lives up to its name by aiming to embody the traditions and culture of the United Arabian Emirates. Residents get a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the deep-rooted heritage and traditions of the country.
• Designed to cater to families. The community features state-of-the-art amenities and facilities ideal for families, creating a safe and enjoyable atmosphere.
• The transportation system in Culture Village is well-thought-out and convenient. The community features a developed road network, making it easy for residents with private vehicles to move around. Additionally, parking spaces and the nearby Al Jadaf Metro Station provide convenient options for both private and public transportation.
• Residents can easily access the Dubai Dolphinarium, Jameel Arts Centre, Dubai Mall, and Palm Jumeirah. These attractions offer entertainment, cultural programs, exhibitions, and shopping options, enhancing the lifestyle experience in the community.
• Even though the community is still under construction, it already has a well-developed infrastructure. With proximity to supermarkets, schools, entertainment options, and hospitals, residents have easy access to essential services and daily necessities.

Al Badia Hillside Village — Modern Living with an Arabian Touch

Al Badia Hillside Village exists right in the heart of Dubai Festival City and comprises low-rise apartment buildings perched atop a picturesque hill. This village blends modernity and old Arabian charm and is a perfect residential sub-community for all sorts of residents. The neighbourhood is enveloped by well-established areas like Umm Ramool and Ras Al Khor, offering convenient connectivity via Gateway Avenue.

Like Culture Village, this community thrives on its ability to effortlessly merge the modernity of the UAE and traditional Arabian architecture. This is predominant in the village's cobbled streets, Andalusian design, and abundant greenery, transporting you to Arabia of old, in a contemporary setting. 

This village further contains community parks, fitness centres, supermarkets, mosques, and several options for nursery, primary, and Secondary schools. Popular choices include Cambridge International School, Deira International School, Mini Miracles Nursery, etc. Higher education options include Al Falah University, the University of Modern Sciences, and the University of Cambridge CIE, all within a 10-minute drive.

If you want to live and work in a community where a touch of culture would exist in your daily activities, then the Al Badia Hillside Village is a potential location for you. This is coupled with easy access to fine dining, entertainment, and shopping options, catering to residents and tourists alike.

By The Numbers 

Al Badia Hillside Village contains many property options for families, individuals, and investors. 

A standard 3-bedroom unit in this village typically features airy spaces bathed in natural light, crystal chandeliers, french doors, modern bathrooms, and open windows. The well-designed kitchens offer ample storage, and you'll often find a maid's room for added convenience. The community's amenities include multiple parking spaces, a children's play area, barbeque spots in courtyards, and inviting swimming pools.

For those considering renting, rental prices vary depending on apartment type, with 1-bedroom units typically around USD 20,419. If you want to invest, the sale prices range from USD 503,674 for 2-bedroom apartments to USD 980,120 for 3-bedroom units. 

Al Badia Hillside Village is also a hot spot for investors, as the Village offers a solid return on investment. The 3-bedroom apartments stand out with the highest ROI of 5.82%, followed by 2-bedroom units at 5.31% and 1-bedroom units at 4.91%.

What Makes This Neighborhood Great?

• One of the best places to live near Dubai Festival City
• Offers a high quality of life with its various amenities, such as swimming pools, a gym, a kids' play area, jogging paths, and a view of the golf course. These facilities contribute to a pleasant living experience.
• The proximity to DFC Mall ensures easy shopping and access to various services, providing residents with a hassle-free lifestyle.
• Al Badia Hillside Village benefits from well-connected roads, such as the Business Bay Bridge, Garhoud Bridge, and Emirates Road. This translates to minimal traffic congestion and smooth commuting for residents, saving them valuable time and reducing frustration.
• The apartments in Al Badia Hillside Village are known for their generous sizes. For example, a 1+ study hall unit can offer around 1,700 sq ft of living space, allowing families with children ample room to play and move around comfortably indoors.
• The community prides itself on its high level of security measures, ensuring residents feel safe and protected. This factor contributes to the overall peace of mind for individuals and families residing in Al Badia Hillside Village.

Al Hudaiba — An Affordable Rental Community

Al Hudaiba is a small community in Dubai known for its proximity to Drydocks World and its affordable rental apartments. Primarily a rental community, Al Hudaiba is an ideal setting for singles, young couples, small families, and expats new to the UAE with its affordable apartments. For larger families, it may not be the right fit, thanks to the limited availability of villas. 

Added attractions include basic amenities like education, healthcare, and recreational options. The neighbourhood is conveniently located near Al Jafiliya and Jumeirah 1, with Pearl Jumeirah and Al Mina to the west and various communities in Bur Dubai to the north.

Al Hudaiba's central location makes it accessible to major landmarks and commercial hubs in the city. It's close to pristine beaches in Jumeirah and offers easy access to Dubai Maritime City. Getting around is seamless, with public transportation facilitated by various bus stops, although there is no metro station within the community.

By The Numbers

Al Hudaiba primarily offers rental apartments, with 1 and 2-bedroom units being popular choices. The rental price for a 1-bedroom apartment is around USD 13,613 on average, while 2-bedroom apartments rent for approximately USD 18,513. There's also limited availability of villas, with 2-bedroom options spanning around 1,624 sq. ft. and an average annual rent of USD 22,325.

Being adjacent to Jumeirah 1 and Al Jafiliya, investors in Al Hudaiba properties may expect an ROI range similar to these locations; between 4.2% and 5.1% ROI.

The H1 Building stands out as one of the (if not the most) popular buildings in Al Hudaiba and offers a range of both 2 and 3-bedroom apartments. What sets it apart is the charming terrace garden at its centre. Nearby, the Al Hudaiba Building offers 1 and 2-bedroom flats starting from USD 13,613. Al Wasl Block A is another option adjacent to Crowne Plaza Dubai Jumeirah, featuring 2 and 3-bedroom units starting from USD 16,063.

As an investor, you’ll find Al Hudaiba attractive due to its prime location and diverse property options. The area is experiencing an appreciation in property values thanks to the high rent demand. Consider projects like HG Crowne Plaza, offering both 1-bedroom apartments for rent and sale or Al Owais Building with 1-bedroom apartments.

Bear in mind, however, that this is a non-freehold area — the only one of its kind on our list.

What Makes This Neighborhood Great?

• The apartments in Al Hudaiba are known for their ample space, providing residents with roomy living areas and comfortable accommodations.
• The proximity to 2nd December Street means that residents in Al Hudaiba have easy access to many amazing restaurants, providing a diverse culinary experience.
• Al Hudaiba features a small community garden with rides for kids, a basketball court, and a football pitch, allowing residents to enjoy outdoor activities and social interactions within their community.

City of Arabia — A Freehold Area with Investment Potential

As far as prime locations come, it doesn’t get any more prime than the City of Arabia, with proximity to renowned attractions like Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and Downtown Dubai, not to mention the easy access to major airports, such as Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), which are conveniently just half an hour away.

Despite much of its six sub-communities still in development, the City of Arabia is a vibrant community that seamlessly blends residential properties, commercial spaces, and retail outlets, attracting a diverse range of residents and visitors. The development's vision includes key features like the Mall of Arabia and IMG Worlds of Adventure, designed to create a dynamic and diverse community — including recreational spaces to ensure an engaging and lively atmosphere. This multi-billion dollar project aims to accommodate around 34,000 people and offers a plethora of world-class malls, commercial developments, and residential towers.

Education is a priority in the City of Arabia, with several esteemed schools and colleges nearby. GEMS Winchester School, Dubai, Dunecrest American School, GEMS FirstPoint School, and Lycée Libanais Francophone Privé — Meydan are among the high-quality educational institutions in the vicinity. They collectively offer modern study options and a world-class education for residents.

By The Numbers

Homeseekers and investors will find affordable apartments and residential properties in the City of Arabia. The area's proximity to Dubailand and the ongoing development of infrastructure contribute to its significant growth potential. This developed locality, coupled with numerous amenities and facilities, underscores its appeal to those seeking investment opportunities.

Various apartment types offer compelling ROI opportunities in the City of Arabia:

• Studio apartments offer an average of 6%
• 1-bedroom apartments offer 5.9% ROI
• For 2-bedroom apartments, you can get an ROI of 6.9%
• 3-Bedroom sit at 7.3% ROI
• 4-bedroom apartments, on the other hand, offer investors an expected ROI of 6%

What Makes This Neighborhood Great?

• The City of Arabia is known for its pet-friendly environment, providing a great living space for those who have furry companions. You can enjoy the company of your pets without facing any restrictions or challenges.
• Even though it’s shaping up to be a shopping city, unlike the bustling city centre, the City of Arabia offers a tranquil environment. It provides a peaceful escape from the busyness of central Dubai, allowing residents to relax and unwind.
• The City of Arabia is designed as an integrated community, offering a variety of amenities and facilities within proximity. This means you can find everything you need, from shopping centres to schools, parks, and entertainment venues, all conveniently located within the neighbourhood.