Old Dubai vs New Dubai – Where should you live?
Dubai welcomes people from around the world, and each expat group has different preferences regarding their ideal home. While some prefer areas with high-end accommodation and an extensive portfolio of luxury villas and apartments, others look for more affordable neighbourhoods with strong connections to the region’s rich cultural past. Today, let’s compare life in old Dubai vs new Dubai based on the type of areas, properties, amenities, etc.
OLD DUBAI VS NEW DUBAI – WHAT SETS THEM APART
While you can discover interesting facts about Dubai’s history in old Dubai, new Dubai offers insight into the city’s impressive progress. Let’s look at how living in new Dubai compares to old Dubai.
Old Dubai Area Vs New
Perhaps the biggest difference between old and new Dubai is the type of area or neighbourhood.
DISCOVER THE EMIRATE’S RICH HERITAGE IN OLD DUBAI
Old Dubai typically includes historic residential and commercial hubs like Bur Dubai, Deira, Al Nahda, Al Karama and Al Garhoud that have evolved over time yet retained their old charm.
The low-rise buildings with small cafes, grocery stores and other retail shops on the ground level have simplistic vibes. In particular, districts like Deira and Karama have people flocking to karak chai cafes even during late-night hours.
Overall, life in old Dubai is bustling but lacks glamour. You will find traditional buildings and villas besides decades-old souks and restaurants. Older city districts are also home to some of the most authentic Indian and Pakistani restaurants in Dubai.
EXPERIENCE THE HIGH LIFE IN NEW DUBAI
On the other hand, sleek high-rises in Dubai Marina and Downtown Dubai and the large variety of modern villas/townhouses in Dubai Hills Estate and Arabian Ranches epitomise the glitz and glamour of new Dubai. These newer neighbourhoods have some of the city’s best hotels, nightclubs, entertainment venues, shopping destinations and beautiful promenades, further adding to their appeal.
Dubai Marina has over 200 residential skyscrapers and Downtown Dubai is home to the tallest building in the world – Burj Khalifa. Emaar’s first villa community in the city, Arabian Ranches, has thousands of villas and townhouses distributed across the different sub-communities, surrounded by open green spaces, paved walkways and manicured gardens.
What makes life in new Dubai more convenient is the presence of communal amenities. Most newer neighbourhoods have everything you would want in an ideal address. Gated communities have lush green parks, community pools, clubhouses, gyms, restaurants and even supermarkets. Similarly, districts dominated by apartment buildings like Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, DIFC and Business Bay have no shortage of basic amenities, including grocery stores, eateries, cafes and public transport links.
PROPERTY TYPES – NEW DUBAI VS OLD DUBAI
Both new and old districts have a wide range of property options for residents to choose from. But properties in new Dubai are modern and feature shared common amenities such as pools and gyms.
The most common residential properties in Dubai – villas and apartments – are available for rent and sale in both city areas. Still, the newer districts are preferred by tenants and buyers looking for a bigger inventory of luxury lofts, duplexes, penthouses and apartments for rent in Dubai.
- STUDIO
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- 1 BATH
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- 498 SQFT
- 2 BEDS
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- 3 BATHS
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- 1334 SQFT
- 2 BEDS
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- 3 BATHS
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- 1344 SQFT
- 2 BEDS
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- 2 BATHS
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- 1139 SQFT
- 1 BED
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- 2 BATHS
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- 707 SQFT
- 1 BED
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- 2 BATHS
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- 984 SQFT
- STUDIO
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- 1 BATH
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- 490 SQFT
AMENITIES
While both areas have abundant facilities, the newer areas are more suited to the people of determination. Most apartment complexes and gated villa/townhouse communities in new Dubai have dedicated barbecue areas, daycare centres and fitness facilities like saunas, jacuzzis, swimming pools and sports courts. Some complexes even have parking plazas and multiple podium/basement levels dedicated to parking.
Apartment buildings in older areas usually only have basic facilities like elevators and parking spaces. Often residents have to settle for street parking.
Regarding other amenities, both sides of the emirate offer access to supermarkets, schools, healthcare centres, restaurants and shopping malls. The schools and hospitals in old Dubai are, however, predictably older. More recently launched developments have state-of-the-art fitness centres, healthcare facilities and massive hypermarkets.
ATTRACTIONS – OLD VS NEW DUBAI
Talking about attractions, there is no shortage of tourist hotspots in both older and newer parts of the town.
Old Dubai has historical spots such as Deira Clocktower, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and the ever-popular Dubai Creek.
Newer areas, however, feature concept restaurants and unique coffee places in Dubai besides many of Dubai’s most famous tourist spots. Those worth mentioning include Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain, Dubai Mall, The Pointe Palm Jumeirah, The Palm Fountain, The View at The Palm and the most beautiful building in the world – the Museum of the Future.
PROPERTY PRICES – NEW DUBAI VS OLD DUBAI
Here is a complete breakdown of prices based on the top areas in the older and newer parts of Dubai.
APARTMENTS AND VILLAS IN OLD DUBAI
On average, apartments for rent in Al Garhoud are available for AED 64k. Villas in Al Garhoud are available for AED 198k, on average. You can rent a 3-bed villa in Al Garhoud for AED 140k. A larger 4-bed house for rent would cost you AED 200k.
For those keen on renting in Al Karama, quite a few options are available, from cosy studios to large 3-bedroom apartments. Those interested in rental apartments in Al Karama can expect to pay AED 64k, on average.
Another area in old Dubai that’s popular among tenants is Al Nahda. On average, flats for rent in Al Nahda Dubai are available for AED 45k.
Other preferred areas to rent apartments and villas in old Dubai include Bur Dubai and Deira. While tenants renting apartments in Bur Dubai pay an average of AED 72k, a small inventory of villas in the community is available for an average of AED 377k.
Deira apartments for rent cost AED 56k, on average.
Here’s a breakdown of the average rents for apartments in old Dubai based on bed types.
Area | Studio | 1-Bed | 2-Bed | 3-Bed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Area Bur Dubai | Studio AED 36,000 | 1-Bed AED 56,000 | 2-Bed AED 75,000 | 3-Bed AED 98,000 |
Area Al Nahda (Dubai) | Studio AED 27,000 | 1-Bed AED 36,000 | 2-Bed AED 49,000 | 3-Bed AED 68,000 |
Area Deira | Studio AED 29,000 | 1-Bed AED 45,000 | 2-Bed AED 65,000 | 3-Bed AED 89,000 |
Area Al Karama | Studio AED 38,000 | 1-Bed AED 52,000 | 2-Bed AED 66,000 | 3-Bed AED 90,000 |
Area Al Garhoud | Studio AED 46,000 | 1-Bed AED 52,000 | 2-Bed AED 73,000 | 3-Bed AED 102,000 |
APARTMENTS AND VILLAS IN NEW DUBAI
Property prices in new Dubai are considerably higher compared to older city districts. New neighbourhoods like Dubai Hills Estate, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) and Dubai Sports City offer various residential units, including apartments, villas and townhouses.
Some areas in new Dubai specialise in one property type, like apartments or villas/townhouses. Popular areas for renting apartments and villas in new Dubai include JVC, Dubai Hills Estate and Palm Jumeirah.
Dubai Marina, Business Bay and Downtown Dubai have podium villas, but they are more well-known for their apartments, duplexes and penthouses. Here’s what you can expect to pay for renting apartments in popular new Dubai areas. You can choose from compact studios to larger 3-bedroom apartments.
Area | Studio | 1-Bed | 2-Bed | 3-Bed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Area Dubai Marina | Studio AED 68,000 | 1-Bed AED 103,000 | 2-Bed AED 151,000 | 3-Bed AED 232,000 |
Area Business Bay | Studio AED 65,000 | 1-Bed AED 85,000 | 2-Bed AED 132,000 | 3-Bed AED 183,000 |
Area Downtown Dubai | Studio AED 93,000 | 1-Bed AED 128,000 | 2-Bed AED 240,000 | 3-Bed AED 388,000 |
Area Dubai Hills Estate | Studio AED 55,000 | 1-Bed AED 86,000 | 2-Bed AED 154,000 | 3-Bed AED 231,000 |
Area DIFC | Studio N/A | 1-Bed AED 113,000 | 2-Bed AED 163,000 | 3-Bed AED 220,000 |
- Apartments for rent in Downtown Dubai average at AED 230k.
- On average, tenants can find flats for rent in Dubai Marina for AED 143k.
As stated earlier, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) offers affordable apartments, villas and townhouses. Arabian Ranches by Emaar, Dubai Hills Estate and Jumeirah Golf Estates are popularly known for picturesque villas for rent in Dubai in 3-bed to 7-bed+ configurations.
- 3 BEDS
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- 5 BATHS
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- 1454 SQFT
- 4 BEDS
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- 4 BATHS
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- 4873 SQFT
- 4 BEDS
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- 5 BATHS
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- 2187 SQFT
- 5 BEDS
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- 6 BATHS
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- 7075 SQFT
Arabian Ranches houses for rent are available for AED 216k to AED 427k per annum, based on the bed type. Here are the average rents for villas in some popular new Dubai communities.
Area | 3-Bed | 4-Bed | 5-Bed |
|---|---|---|---|
Area Dubai Hills Estate | 3-Bed AED 328,000 | 4-Bed AED 370,000 | 5-Bed AED 435,000 |
Area Palm Jumeirah | 3-Bed AED 535,000 | 4-Bed AED 1,034,000 | 5-Bed AED 1,221,000 |
Area Jumeirah Golf Estates | 3-Bed N/A | 4-Bed AED 479,000 | 5-Bed AED 713,000 |
Area Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) | 3-Bed AED 142,000 | 4-Bed AED 168,000 | 5-Bed AED 184,000 |
Area Arabian Ranches | 3-Bed AED 216,000 | 4-Bed AED 319,000 | 5-Bed AED 427,000 |
As you can see, the prices for properties in new Dubai generally tend to be higher. But this is understandable, considering the construction quality, apartment features and modern facilities.
One reason Dubai’s real estate sector appeals to people from all walks of life is the availability of luxury properties. If you are looking for the highest standards of apartment living, Dubai’s property portfolio won’t disappoint you. Here’s what you can expect to pay for renting luxury flats in Dubai’s most expensive areas for apartment living.
Area | Studio | 1-Bed | 2-Bed | 3-Bed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Area Al Wasl | Studio AED 45,000 | 1-Bed AED 176,000 | 2-Bed AED 248,000 | 3-Bed AED 311,000 |
Area Palm Jumeirah | Studio AED 111,000 | 1-Bed AED 165,000 | 2-Bed AED 243,000 | 3-Bed AED 312,000 |
Area Al Barari | Studio N/A | 1-Bed AED 134,000 | 2-Bed AED 316,000 | 3-Bed AED 548,000 |
Area Dubai Harbour | Studio N/A | 1-Bed AED 163,000 | 2-Bed AED 269,000 | 3-Bed AED 475,000 |
Area Bluewaters Island | Studio N/A | 1-Bed AED 310,000 | 2-Bed AED 495,000 | 3-Bed AED 716,000 |
If your idea of luxury living involves villas, check out these villa communities in Dubai with private pools!
Frequently Asked Questions About Old vs New Dubai
Where can I see Dubai’s past, present and future?
Not many cities present a striking contrast between old and new the way Dubai does. Did you know you can view both sides, i.e. old and new Dubai, by visiting one of the most popular landmarks in the city?
That’s right. The Dubai Frame is where you can soak in panoramic views of the bustling streets of old Dubai and the skyscrapers of new Dubai!
What are the best things to do in Old Dubai?
Old Dubai, as stated earlier, is filled with heritage and history. Here’s how you can spend time in historical areas of the city:
- Visit museums, boutique cafes and art galleries in Al Fahidi Neighbourhood. Dubai Museum is one of the best Dubai attractions for history buffs.
- Enjoy karak chai with friends and family in Deira and Karama.
- Ride traditional Abras and dhow cruises across Dubai Creek.
- Explore traditional perfumes, spices, textiles and gold souks.
- Visit the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding in Al Fahidi.
- Visit mosques, churches and temples in Bur Dubai.
- Enjoy traditional Pakistani and Indian cuisine for a pocket-friendly price.
- Travel across the stars at AYA, a futuristic light and sound park at WAFI Mall.
Which activities do I need to try in New Dubai?
Newer communities in Dubai have much to offer people of all tastes. Whether you prefer scenic views, retail therapy, wildlife adventures or an adrenaline rush, there is an activity for you! Here’s a round-up of the most popular activities in new Dubai:
- Say hello to the future at the Museum of the Future.
- Click a picture with your favourite celeb at Madame Tussauds.
- Enjoy theatrical masterpieces at the Dubai Opera and La Perle.
- See art come to life at Infinity Des Lumierès, an art gallery inside Dubai Mall.
- Soak some sunshine at JBR Beach.
- Book tickets to At The Top – the world’s highest observation deck inside Burj Khalifa.
- Check out thrilling water rides at Aquaventure Waterpark, Palm Jumeirah.
- Experience how F1 racing feels like at the Dubai Autodrome, Motor City.
- Dine at waterfront restaurants and cafes at the gorgeous promenade – Dubai Marina Walk.
- Watch the Dubai Fountain dance to popular Arabic, English and Bollywood songs.
- Spend a day at Dubai Mall! This shopping and entertainment destination has over 1,300 retail outlets, 200 F&B outlets and numerous exciting entertainment venues like Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, Reel Cinemas, VR Park and the Dubai Ice Rink.
- Take on the fun and games at Topgolf, one of the popular spots to play mini-golf in Dubai.
- Explore indoor skiing Dubai – a one-of-a-kind indoor ski and snow park in the Mall of the Emirates.
- Try XLine in Dubai Marina.
- Experience Dubai like never before at Sky Views by Emaar.
- Become part of the ultimate underwater adventure at Deep Dive Dubai.
- Ride the world’s fastest ‘vertical launch’ roller coaster at the Dubai Hills Mall – The Storm Coaster.
- See the legacy of Expo 2020 – The World’s Greatest Show – live at the Expo City Dubai.
Where can I buy property in Dubai?
Most freehold areas in Dubai are also located in new Dubai for investors and homeowners keen on buying properties in the city. Districts like Dubai Marina, Business Bay and Downtown Dubai have many exciting off-plan projects lined up.
If you want to invest in off-plan villa/townhouse communities, check out DAMAC Hills 2 and Dubai Harbour.
Can I find affordable property in New Dubai?
While average rents and sales prices are higher in newer parts of the emirate, it is still possible to find affordable accommodation. You can check out Discovery Gardens and International City for cheap apartment rentals. Similarly, here’s a guide to the most affordable villa communities in Dubai.
Which areas are popular for renting in Old Dubai?
Those who prefer areas epitomising the culture and heritage of the UAE can explore popular areas in old Dubai for rent. Your choices include Deira, Al Karama, Al Satwa, Bur Dubai and Al Nahda.
Is it easy to travel around Old and New Dubai?
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA Dubai) continuously improves the public transport network in the city. Whether you live in older districts or the newest neighbourhoods, you will surely find a transport mode within easy access.
Dubai Metro’s Red Line serves the relatively newer districts like DIP, Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai and Business Bay. The Green Line, on the other hand, serves older city areas. RTA Buses cover almost 80% of the emirate; newer routes are introduced periodically. Residents and tourists can easily hail a taxi to travel to their destination. You can also use marine transport and water taxis in Dubai to cruise around Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR).
And that ends our comparison between old vs new Dubai. Both sides of Dubai offer comfortable and peaceful living experiences for residents. It’s up to you to pick a community you deem most fitting for your preferences and needs.
