There's something quite special about watching the Dubai sunrise with a four-legged companion by your side. What was once a rare sight in Dubai has become increasingly common, as nearly half of Dubai's expat homeowners in established communities now share their lives with pets. This growing trend is reshaping residential living in the emirate, with developers responding in thoughtful ways.
Palm Jumeirah
For pets and their owners, the day begins with calming moments by the water. Frond Villas feature their own beachfront settings, with homes averaging around 10,519 square feet. The gardens stretch naturally to the water's edge, designed to make outdoor living enjoyable year-round. Artificial grass, which has been used to withstand Dubai's climate, stays below 25 degrees even in summer. It’s complemented by washing stations and shaded areas where pets can cool off.
The Palm continues to evolve with West Beach, where the 1.5-kilometre promenade has become a favourite meeting point for pet owners. Every 200 metres, there are waterfront cafes and quiet gardens where pets are welcome. At places like Jones the Grocer and Lucky Fish, breakfast with a loyal companion has become a neighbourhood tradition. Even the Palm's latest developments, including Palm Beach Towers, reflect this shift towards inclusive living spaces.
Emirates Hills
Emirates Hills is home to some of Dubai's largest outdoor areas, with plots covering 12,000 and 45,000 square feet that create a sense of estate living. The district follows the gentle curves of The Address Montgomerie golf course, where 5 kilometres of tropical tree-lined paths offer the perfect walking routes.
Throughout Emirates Hills, owners have transformed their gardens thoughtfully. Swimming pools give pets a place to cool off, while agility areas under trees provide active play in the shade. These areas bring everyone together, with quieter avenues along the golf course saved for evening. It's the freedom to roam that makes Emirates Hills special – pets have as much space as their owners in one of Dubai's most prestigious addresses.
Al Barari
Al Barari is a community deeply connected to nature, with 60% of its grounds dedicated to botanical gardens and waterways. Time spent here with pets feels like exploring a private nature reserve, with paths winding through themed gardens and gentle streams, making every day feel far from city life.
Each garden ranges from 3,000 to 8,000 square feet, canopied by tall trees. Walking routes crisscross throughout the community with rest stops between them. A pet care facility in the community handles grooming and training.
Dubai Hills Estate
Ten kilometres of walking paths circle Dubai Hills' championship golf course, giving residents endless options to walk their pets throughout the day. The clubhouse area includes a pet daycare with indoor and outdoor spaces, along with veterinary care close at hand.
At the centre of the community is a 54,000-square-foot park, home to Dubai’s largest dog area. Separate zones cater to pets of all sizes, while agility equipment keeps daily routines interesting. In the surrounding villas and mansions, gardens start at 5,000 square feet. Residents have customised these spaces, creating areas that work perfectly for both daily life and outdoor activities.
The World Islands
Just a few minutes off Dubai's coast, The World Islands take beachfront living to another level. Each island covers 250,000 to 500,000 square feet, giving owners the freedom to create exactly what they want. Some have designed gardens that lead to their private beaches, others have added specific amenities for pets. Each day brings a new chance to explore a piece of paradise, with Dubai's skyline across the water.
Living with Pets
Living with pets in Dubai comes with straightforward requirements. The Dubai Municipality manages pet registration and microchipping, with specific guidelines that vary by breed. Communities also have their own preferences regarding where pets can walk and the sizes they accommodate. Services across Dubai cover everything from registration to veterinary care, supplies, and premium boarding facilities.
A World of Care
Pet care in Dubai matches the quality of its communities. The city’s pet hotels feel more like resorts, with individual suites, swimming pools, and staff who treat pets like family. Mobile groomers come straight to the home, and vets regularly make house calls throughout these neighbourhoods.
Daily life is just as convenient. Local shops deliver premium pet supplies directly to the door, while transport services remove the hassle of vet visits and grooming appointments.
Dubai takes a different approach to pet-friendly living. While other cities adapt existing spaces, Dubai designs communities with pets in mind from the start. For anyone moving to the city, this makes finding the right home simpler – the details that matter most for pets are already in place.
