Home to architectural marvels and an international community, Dubai is celebrated as one of the best cities for stylish living. This fascinating desert metropolis doesn’t disappoint, hosting a range of exceptional residential communities, each with a unique charm.
8 of the Best Places to Live in Dubai
Whether you prefer urban living in sky-soaring towers, serene homes nestled against lush fairways, or waking up to stunning views of the Arabian Gulf, Dubai is happy to serve the best. This list highlights the best residential communities in Dubai, showcasing the city's ability to cater to various lifestyles and preferences while maintaining a high standard of luxury and comfort.
Emirates Hills
Emirates Hills is a name that resonates with exclusive living in Dubai, famed for its ultra-luxurious, bespoke villas. Developed by Emaar and designed by master architect Desmond Muirhead, this gated community features 600 prime homes, each unique and exuding distinct design styles. Its lush, green setting is complemented by the 18-hole Montgomerie Championship Golf Course. Unlike other upscale areas, it offers a tranquil environment without skyscrapers and building clusters making it perfect for large families. The diversity of architectural styles and impeccable amenities, including private pools and immaculate gardens, make Emirates Hills a truly exceptional neighbourhood.
Jumeirah Golf Estates
Jumeirah Golf Estates is one of Dubai's top residential communities, offering a life of peace, nature, and serenity. Spanning 2,800 acres, it features two world-class golf courses and 16 subcommunities with various architectural styles such as the Mediterranean-inspired villas in Flame Tree Ridge and contemporary homes in Sanctuary Falls. Residents enjoy stunning golf course views, landscaped gardens, and wildlife-friendly parks. Home to over 4,000 trees, 15 lakes, and 340 bird species, it's the ideal space for nature lovers. The community's spacious homes and tranquil environment are highly favoured by affluent families and golf enthusiasts.
Al Barari
Al Barari, meaning 'wilderness' in Arabic, is a botanical sanctuary, and arguably one of the most beautiful residential communities in Dubai. With over 500 plant species, this eco-friendly community offers an escape from city life with tree-lined roads, lakes, and waterways fostering a rich ecosystem. Located off Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, near Global Village, Al Barari combines seclusion with accessibility to major business and social districts. The gated community features prime and super-prime villas with landscaped gardens and infinity pools, attracting affluent residents. Amenities include restaurants, wellness facilities, cycle paths, and playgrounds, as part of an idyllic residential retreat.
Dubai Hills Estate
Dubai Hills Estate is an ideal family-friendly community known for its manicured green parks, pedestrian-friendly streets, and top-tier amenities like Dubai Hills Mall and Golf Club. This gated estate offers a mix of modern apartments, townhouses, villas and bespoke mansions making it a top choice for both residents and investors. The community’s serene environment, combined with its connectivity to key business and leisure hubs, makes it highly desirable. Families appreciate the social atmosphere, with numerous cafés, restaurants, and public parks adding to the neighbourhood's charm. The architectural style is predominantly contemporary, emphasising clean lines and natural light, creating a harmonious combination of nature and luxury.
District One
Residing in Mohammed Bin Rashid City, District One is a private gated community known for its luxury villas, stunning Crystal Lagoon and proximity to Downtown Dubai. Perfect for families, this exclusive area spans 1,100 acres of parkland and 26 million square feet of open space, offering tranquillity and wellness. The community is home to super prime villas and grand mansions with smart, urban designs, large private pools, and exquisite finishes. Residents can choose an active lifestyle with amenities like swimming, kayaking, and extensive jogging trails. Architectural styles vary from contemporary to modern Arabic, catering to an international demographic seeking an indoor-outdoor living experience.
Palm Jumeirah
This palm-shaped island often called the 'eighth wonder of the world,' is home to high-net-worth individuals with a mix of properties that range from modern penthouses with panoramic views to expansive villas with various architectural styles, private beach access and pools. The properties extend across all 17 Fronds, Crescent, and Trunk. Residents enjoy exclusive beach clubs, fine dining, family-friendly parks, and entertainment. The island’s dining scene includes seven Michelin-star restaurants, and its Aquaventure Waterpark holds multiple world records. Palm Jumeirah combines luxury, privacy, and a resort-like lifestyle, amid a sophisticated waterfront haven that continues to soar in popularity.
Downtown
Downtown Dubai is a showcase of Dubai’s ambitious vision and prosperity coming to fruition with the world’s tallest building, largest mall, and grandest choreographed fountains, all located in the district. Loved for its striking postmodern architecture and world-class luxury, this neighbourhood attracts an affluent international community, including professionals and young couples. Its high-rise apartments are favoured by those seeking urban sophistication in the heart of the city. Despite bustling streets filled with tourists, residents enjoy privacy in exclusive, well-secured buildings with private outdoor spaces. Ultra-luxurious penthouses, spacious duplexes, and modern apartments in Downtown’s prestigious addresses like the Burj Khalifa and The Address Boulevard offer awe-inspiring views, designer finishes, and unmatched convenience, making it a prime location for contemporary urban living.
Jumeirah Bay Island
One of Dubai's most expensive communities, Jumeirah Bay Island represents the heights of affluence and exclusivity in the country. With just 128 plots, this seahorse-shaped island is home to the prestigious Bulgari Hotel and Resort, the world-first Bulgari Yacht Club, and opulent Bulgari branded residences, the only ones in the MENA region. Known as "billionaire’s island," it has the highest density of billionaires in the UAE, surpassing Emirates Hills and Palm Jumeirah. The island’s prime location, connected to the mainland by a 300-metre bridge, ensures seclusion and easy city access. Properties feature custom-built mansions and Bulgari-branded apartments and penthouses, overlooking the marina and the Arabian Gulf, that create a sophisticated waterfront living experience.
Closing Thoughts
Choosing where to live is a deeply personal decision, and the definition of a perfect home can vary greatly from one person to another. For some, it's the buzz of city life and the convenience of being close to work and entertainment. Others find solace in the tranquillity of waterfront living on Palm Jumeirah or the lush green surroundings of communities like Emirates Hills and Al Barari. Ultimately, finding the right place to call home in Dubai is about aligning your lifestyle preferences, priorities, and aspirations to ensure that your home is not just a place to live, but a reflection of your unique desires and dreams.
