Best areas to live in Dubai with family

• Popular Areas for Villas
• Popular Areas for Apartments
• FAQs

Dubai boasts a diverse array of exceptional residential communities. However, with so many choices, selecting the perfect family home requires careful consideration of factors like school accessibility, work commutes, local amenities and budget. Keeping this in mind, here are our top choices for the best areas to live in Dubai with family, including villas and apartments.

BEST AREAS TO LIVE IN DUBAI WITH FAMILY – VILLAS

• Arabian Ranches
• Palm Jumeirah
• Jumeirah Park
• Emirates Hills
• Al Barari
• Mirdif

Dubai is an excellent place to start and live with family. With this thought in mind, here are some of the best residential areas in Dubai that boast an impressive range of villas.

The most popular family-friendly area with villas in Dubai is Arabian Ranches, followed by Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Park, Emirates Hills, Al Barari and Mirdif.

ARABIAN RANCHES

Our top pick for one of the best areas to live in Dubai with family is Arabian Ranches. It is a haven for families seeking a tranquil escape from city life. This meticulously planned community boasts spacious villas that offer privacy and comfort. Residents enjoy a strong sense of belonging fostered by regular community events like Market Days and barbecues, making it an idyllic suburban lifestyle choice.

Buying villas in Arabian Ranches can be a good start if you are interested in investing in a popular residential community. Here are the sales trends:

• The average price for a 3-bedroom villa in Arabian Ranches is AED 4.73M.
• It goes up to AED 7.36M and AED 10.95M for 4 and 5-bedroom houses, respectively.
• Bigger units, like a 6-bedroom villa in Arabian Ranches, can easily cost you AED 15.6M.

Are you not ready to jump into the strain of buying a property in Dubai? Worry not; you can consider renting villas in Arabian Ranches to enjoy similar facilities.

• Tenants looking to move to this family-friendly area can expect to pay rent of AED 243k for 3-bedroom villas.
• Rent for 4-bed villas is around AED 399k; for a more spacious 5-bedroom villa, it is AED 508k per annum.
• The yearly rent for a 6-bedroom villa in the community is AED 768k.

PALM JUMEIRAH

The Palm Jumeirah remains an enduring symbol of luxury living in Dubai. This iconic man-made island continues to captivate residents and visitors with its stunning waterfront vistas and world-class amenities.

Featuring a wide array of family-friendly attractions and boasting a prestigious address, Palm Jumeirah villas and apartments offer an unparalleled resort-style lifestyle.

Want to experience living in this iconic project? Here’s what sales trends say about buying a villa in Palm Jumeirah:

• Invest in a 3 BHK villa in Palm Jumeirah for AED 24.6M.
• You are expected to shell out around AED 30.6M for a 4-bedroom villa in the community.
• A 5-bedroom villa in The Palm has a staggering price of AED 44.7M.
• To own a 6-bedroom villa here, you must put in a whopping AED 68.3M on average.

Those searching for villas for rent in Palm Jumeirah won’t be disappointed either. The rental trends show that:

• The starting price for renting a 3-bedroom house in Palm Jumeirah is AED 202k.
• If you are keen on larger units, the prices for 4-bedroom villas average at AED 1.1M. Whereas AED 1.45M is the starting price of 5-bed houses.
• You can rent a 6-bedroom villa in The Palm for AED 2.18M annually.

JUMEIRAH PARK

A sprawling 380-hectare community developed by Nakheel Properties, Jumeirah Park offers over 3,000 luxurious villas for rent or purchase. Nestled between Jumeirah Lake Towers and Jumeirah Islands, this eco-friendly neighbourhood prioritises family living.

Residents enjoy various amenities, including jogging and cycling paths, children’s play areas, green parks, gyms, retail centres, a nursery, a school and sports courts.

For those interested in living here, below are the sales trends in Jumeirah Park

• You are expected to shell out AED 6.1M for a 3-bedroom villa in Jumeirah Park.
• Buying a 4-bed villa here will cost you approximately AED 7.61M.
• AED 10.8M is the average asking price for a 5-bed villa for sale in Jumeirah Park.
• The budget for buying a 6-bedroom villa here is a whopping AED 15.5M.

However, if you want to enjoy the perks of living in a popular villa community without investing, villas for rent in Jumeirah Park are a sound choice.

• Tenants can expect to pay a starting rent of AED 347k for 3-bed houses.
• You’ll have to pay a yearly rent of AED 429k for a 4-bedroom villa in Jumeirah Park.
• Renting a 5-bedroom house here can cost around AED 514k per annum.
• The average rent of a 6-bed villa in Jumeirah Park is AED 1.21M per annum.

EMIRATES HILLS

Emirates Hills is also among the best areas to live in Dubai with family. Easy access to retail centres, parks and offices makes it a firm favourite with families in Dubai.

This gated community boasts some of the best schools, including Dubai International Academy and Emirates International School. You can even bring in a furry friend, as this is one of the pet-friendly communities in Dubai.

If you are willing to invest in Dubai properties, villas for sale in Emirates Hills are a fantastic choice. Check out the sales trends here:

• You can expect to pay AED 55M for an upscale 4-bed villa for sale in Emirates Hills.
• Meanwhile, the luxurious 5-bed villa in the community has a price tag of AED 53M.

On the other hand, prospective tenants will find a large portfolio of villas for rent in Emirates Hills.

• Renting a 5-bedroom villa in the community will cost around AED 1.77M annually.
• A rental 6-bed villa in Dubai Hills Estate comes with a price tag of AED 2.83M per annum.

AL BARARI

Al Barari is next on our list of the best areas to live in Dubai with family. The place is a green sanctuary, providing the ideal space for your kids to have some outdoor fun. The area is popular for its villas available in 3 to 6-bedroom configurations.

All these factors make buying villas in Al Barari a sound choice!

• Buying a 4-bed villa in the community can easily cost AED 7.71M.
• You need around AED 15.1M to buy a 5-bedroom villa in Al Barari.
• Purchasing a 6-bedroom villa here means shelling out AED 27.2M.

By keeping sustainability at the forefront of the project’s blueprint, Al Barari became an instant hit among investors and homeowners. Not only this, but the meticulously planned community with its luxury lifestyle amenities has resulted in high demand and sales of its units.

Bayut’s sale transactions for villas in Al Barari show that the community had AED 424M worth of sales in the first half of 2024.

Impressive, right? You can also experience living in this eco-friendly community by renting villas in Al Barari.

• A 3-bedroom villa for rent here will cost approximately AED 343k per annum.
• Renting a 5-bed or 6-bed villa in Al Barari means keeping AED 879k and AED 1.3M as your annual housing budget.

MIRDIF

Mirdif is a well-established neighbourhood renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere. Featuring spacious villas and townhouses equipped with community pools and parks, it caters perfectly to families seeking ample space. The presence of reputable schools, nurseries in Mirdif and shopping malls further enhances the community’s appeal as the best area for families to stay in Dubai.

Such facilities and more ensure that Mirdif’s villas for sale are always in demand. The sales trends in the area show the estimated prices of the properties.

• The sales price to buy 3-bedroom villas in Mirdif is around AED 4.81M.
• The 4-bedroom villas for sale in Mirdif start at AED 5.12M.
• Those interested in buying 5-bed villas here can expect to pay around AED 6.15M.

There’s also a wide choice of villas for rent in Mirdif.

• Tenants can expect to pay an annual AED 125k for 3-bed homes and AED 150k for 4-bed villas in Mirdif.
• Renting a 5-bedroom villa can cost you AED 181k annually
• The annual rent for a 6-bed villa in the community is AED 212k.

BEST AREAS IN DUBAI FOR FAMILIES – APARTMENTS

• Dubai Marina
• Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT)
• Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
• Palm Jumeirah
• Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
• Motor City

Do you love living in apartments? Worry not; we have got you covered!

It is true that while most enjoy the space and luxury of a villa, some people prefer apartments. Here’s a list of the best areas to live in Dubai with family for apartment-lovers.

Dubai Marina takes first place on our inventory of the best areas to stay in Dubai with family. The runner-ups on our list include Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), Palm Jumeirah, JBR and Motor City.

DUBAI MARINA

Dubai Marina is a vibrant waterfront community renowned for its luxurious high-rises, world-class dining choices and entertainment options. Ideally situated with excellent transportation links, this sought-after neighbourhood offers residents easy access to shopping, healthcare and other essential amenities.

Want to wake up to a stunning sea view daily? Check out these apartments for sale in Dubai Marina:

• You can expect to pay AED 1.27M for buying a studio in Dubai Marina.
• Buying a 1-bed unit here can cost around AED 1.68M.
• You’ll have to pay AED 2.79M for a 2-bedroom apartment for sale in Dubai Marina.
• A 3-bedroom unit for sale here is available for AED 4.56M.

But if you aren’t looking for permanent residence, apartments for rent in Dubai Marina bring you similar amenities and facilities.

• The asking rent for studio apartments is AED 60k per year.
• You are expected to pay an average of AED 100k annually for 1-bed apartments in Dubai Marina.
• The 2-bedroom flats for rent in Dubai Marina cost approximately AED 162k annually.
• Those interested in renting 3-bed units in Dubai Marina must have an annual rental budget of AED 255k.

JUMEIRAH LAKE TOWERS (JLT)

Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) is a dynamic community with residential, commercial and leisure spaces. Its prime location, excellent transport links and various amenities make it popular with families. Residents enjoy spacious apartments with balconies overlooking the lake and numerous parks, playgrounds and sports facilities.

If this feels like a good investment opportunity, check out sales trends in JLT.

• The average cost of buying a 1BHK flat is AED 1.4M per year.
• Buying a 2-bedroom apartment in JLT means shelling out AED 2.13M.
• The asking price for a 3-bedroom flat averages AED 3.03M.

The apartments for rent in JLT are popular with families. Tenants can rent a studio apartment for AED 62k.

• The annual rent of a 1-bed flat in JLT is AED 90k.
• You’ll have to pay a rent of AED 133k for a 2-bedroom apartment in JLT.
• The housing budget for a 3 BHK rental apartment here is AED 196k per annum.

DUBAI SILICON OASIS (DSO)

Dubai Silicon Oasis is another excellent area for families. It is a thriving, family-oriented community offering a range of residential options, including towers and compounds.

Designed with families in mind, these residences boast several amenities such as playgrounds, swimming pools, fitness centres and running tracks, providing everything needed for a fulfilling family lifestyle.

Apartments for sale in DSO are comparatively affordable:

• You’ll need an average of AED 417k to buy a DSO studio.
• Buying a 1-bed flat here can easily cost AED 653k.
• The average sales price of a 2-bedroom apartment in DSO is AED 1.13M
• For those looking for bigger units, a 3-bedroom flat for sale here can cost AED 1.57M.

For those looking to rent an apartment in DSO, the rent for a studio starts at AED 42k per annum.

• The 1 and 2 BHK flats for rent here can easily cost you AED 58k and AED 81k, respectively.
• The annual rent of a 3-bed apartment in DSO is AED 118k.

PALM JUMEIRAH

Palm Jumeirah is undoubtedly one of the best areas to live in Dubai with family. By boasting a monorail, massive malls and prestigious schools, The Palm represents a perfect combination of luxury and convenience.

The island’s wide spectrum of activities ensures there’s never a dull moment for families living there. Who wouldn’t love a swim with the dolphins in Atlantis or a spectacular performance at the Cirque du Soleil?

If talking about flats for sale in Palm Jumeirah, the starting price for a studio is AED 1.53M.

• Buying a 1-bed flat here can easily cost AED 3.25M.
• The average sales price of a 2-bedroom apartment in Palm Jumeirah is AED 5.58M.
• For those looking for bigger units, a 3-bedroom flat for sale here can cost AED 10.1M.

Potential tenants will find rental apartments in Palm Jumeirah with different layouts and configurations boasting sea views.

• Tenants can expect to pay a starting price of AED 105k annually for studio flats.
• Renting a 1 BHK in Palm Jumeirah can cost around AED 166k annually.
• The average rent of a 2-bed flat in the community is AED 238k per annum.
• A 3-bedroom apartment for rent is available for AED 307k annually.

JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE (JBR)

Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) is a coveted beachfront destination in Dubai, renowned for its iconic landmarks, The Walk and The Beach. This bustling community features over 40 high-rise residential and hotel towers, offering residents a luxurious lifestyle. JBR’s prime location in Dubai Marina makes it a popular choice for renting premium apartments.

If you are searching for ready apartments in a family-friendly area of Dubai, apartments for sale in JBR bring you a lucrative deal.

• The 1-bedroom flats for sale here can cost around AED 2.58M.
• Buying a 2-bedroom unit in JBR will cost you AED 3.05M.
• You’ll have to pay approximately AED 4.20M to own a 3-bed apartment in JBR.

The high-rise apartments for rent in JBR are the perfect beachfront property for families in Dubai.

• A tenant can expect to pay AED 132k annually for a 1BHK flat.
• A 2-bedroom flat for rent in JBR is around AED 170k.
• The average rent for a 3-bed flat in JBR is AED 230k annually.

MOTOR CITY

Last but not least, Motor City rounds up our list of the best areas to live in Dubai with family. The area portrays a desirable community with charming cobbled streets and expansive properties. Neighbouring Dubai Sports City and Dubai Studio City, this motorsports-themed development by Union Properties offers a blend of residential, commercial and automotive-related facilities.

Ready to take a look at apartments for sale in Motor City? Here are the sales trends in the area:

• You can expect to pay AED 922k for a 1-bedroom apartment in Motor City.
• Buying a 2-bedroom unit here can easily cost around AED 1.54M.
• The average asking price for a 3-bed apartment for sale in the area is AED 2.22M.

The apartments for rent in Motor City are known to be large and airy. This is one of the reasons why this area is a favourite among tenants.

• The price of renting a 1 and 2-bedroom apartment in Motor City ranges from AED 79k to AED 126k, respectively.
• The starting rent for a 3-bedroom unit is around AED 173k per annum.

FAQs about the Best Areas to Live in Dubai with Family

WHAT IS THE EXPECTED ROI ON APARTMENTS FOR SALE IN FAMILY-FRIENDLY AREAS IN DUBAI?

Here are the rental yields for families investing in apartments in the best areas in Dubai.

Area	ROI
Area Dubai Marina	ROI 5.81%
Area Jumeirah Lake Towers	ROI 7.01%
Area Dubai Silicon Oasis	ROI 8.87%
Area Palm Jumeirah	ROI 4.52%
Area Jumeirah Beach Residence	ROI 5.09%
Area Motor City	ROI 8.03%

HOW MUCH RENTAL YIELD CAN I EXPECT ON INVESTING IN A VILLA HERE?

Villas for sale in the best areas to stay in Dubai with family offer the following rental yields:

Area	ROI
Area Arabian Ranches	ROI 4.85%
Area Palm Jumeirah	ROI 3.74%
Area Jumeirah Park	ROI 5.16%
Area Emirates Hills	ROI 4.82%
Area Al Barari	ROI 6.29%
Area Mirdif	ROI 4.00%

Bayut’s Dubai Sales Transactions page offers a detailed index of real estate transaction data from the Dubai Land Department, including property sales history, annual sales volume and area-specific transactional values. This resource enables you to make informed decisions by comparing advertised prices with actual transactional prices for properties of interest.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE PET-FRIENDLY AREAS IN DUBAI?

If you have a fur baby, you’ll look for a pet-friendly building or a villa. The most popular pet-friendly areas in Dubai are JLT, JVC, Dubai Sports City, Dubai Hills Estate and Downtown Dubai.

WHICH IS THE BEST AREA FOR INDIAN EXPATS TO LIVE IN DUBAI?

The best residential area in Dubai for Indian families include JVC, Bur Dubai, Al Barsha, Dubai Sports City and Al Furjan.

WHICH IS THE BEST AREA TO LIVE IN DUBAI?

Dubai is a melting pot of cultures. There’s plenty to do and the job market is lucrative. Ample public transport and world-class healthcare facilities are a plus!

However, deciding which area to live in is subjective to budget, preference and requirements. Some people like a waterfront suburban community and some like living in a skyscraper.

This brings us to the end of our guide on the best areas to live in Dubai with family. We hope this article answers your question of ‘where to live in Dubai with a family?’ and gives you an idea of which community suits your needs best.

However, if this is your first time living in the city, our guide on how much does it cost to live in Dubai can help you categorise the major expenses you would be bearing.

Similarly, if you are looking for the best area to stay in Dubai for a holiday with your family, hotel apartments in Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Bluewaters Island and Downtown Dubai would be a good choice.