Top areas in Dubai for remote workers to live
As globalisation continues and technology offers excellent connectivity, opportunities in various fields are becoming more diverse. And with the launch of remote working visas, Dubai has become a top destination for digital nomads. Most digital nomads seek change from their surroundings – a place to call home that’s outside of home. This has led to a niche demand for neighbourhoods in Dubai for remote workers that support a flexible lifestyle.
In this blog, we will explore some of the top neighbourhoods in Dubai that cater specifically to remote workers. Each area offers its unique vibe and amenities, making it easier for you to find the perfect spot to call home while enjoying a flexible lifestyle.
List of areas in Dubai for remote workers
If you’re a digital nomad or a hybrid worker, Dubai is probably on your list of places to stay. This happening city ticks all the boxes – activities, entertainment, aesthetics, recreation and safety. But what neighbourhoods are best for you when the workplace and home merge?
We share our top recommendations for the best neighbourhoods in Dubai for remote workers. Read on.
Mirdif
Mirdif, a quiet suburb in Dubai, tops our list of the best neighbourhoods in Dubai for remote workers because of its vibes. Villas in Mirdif typically have backyards and pools (either shared or private), so you can take nice breaks right at home. Ranging from 2 to 5-bedroom villas, choose a house that fits your needs based on whether you’re bringing your family along to Dubai.
Staying in a villa in Dubai as a remote worker can make you feel great about your work. An airy, spacious villa with views of a garden or backyard can be fantastic for your mental health and productivity.
Searching for properties for rent in Dubai? You can also look for low-rise apartments and townhouses in the area that offer the same comfort. Ghoroob Mirdif and Mirdif Tulip have great 1, 2 and 3-bedroom apartments. Also, you can consider renting studios in Mirdif if you want a manageable space.
Mirdif is located close to the Dubai International Airport, making it easy to plan your trips and hop on a plane. And yes, you have a mall – City Centre Mirdif – close to your home, along with hospitals and Mushrif Park to relax.
Al Barsha
Are you looking for something more connected to the main city? Al Barsha might be up your alley. You will find both flats and villas for rent in Al Barsha. However, apartments are mostly located in its sub-district – Al Barsha 1.
If you’re a remote worker, consider checking out Barsha 1, which is well-served by RTA buses and metro stations. The vibrant neighbourhood is bustling with crowds eager to try the local restaurants and cafes. You won’t even miss being in an actual office!
Al Barsha 1 is close to the InsuranceMarket Metro Station and the Mall of the Emirates Metro Station. Also, it has multiple supermarket chains nearby – including Grandiose Supermarket and VIVA Supermarket. If retail therapy is how you unwind from work, Mall of the Emirates is located within the neighbourhood.
Apart from the restaurants in the Mall of the Emirates, you can find famous names like Griller, Foul W Hummus, Tashas and more.
Barsha Heights
Barsha Heights (previously known as TECOM) is a good choice for those craving a blend of the liveliness of Barsha in a slightly elevated neighbourhood lifestyle. The area is well-connected to Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), Al Khail Road (E44) and Dubai Internet City Metro Station.
Barsha Heights offers a combination of rental apartments and hotel apartments to choose from. You can find everything from cosy studios to spacious 3-bed rental flats in Barsha Heights, with easy access to the metro.
The neighbourhood covers all the basics. There are supermarkets, including Carrefour and Westzone and clinics, such as Aster Clinic and GMC Clinics. You’re spoilt for choice with the number of bars in the area, including The Clavichord, Rock Bottom Cafe, Nelson’s and more. It makes the area a great place to stay if you’re a remote worker who likes to rewind after work with a refreshing drink.
Dubai Marina
If waterfront living is what you seek, check out Dubai Marina, one of the ideal neighbourhoods in Dubai for remote workers.
Many apartments for rent in Dubai Marina are close to the Marina Beach – and offer views of the beautiful man-made marina. Think about it: While working at home on a typical Tuesday afternoon, you can soak in the calmness of the sea or observe the party-goers on a yacht dancing to the latest tunes.
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- 1029 SQFT
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Dubai Marina has studios, 1, 2, 3 and 4-bedroom apartments besides penthouses. While living (and working) in Dubai Marina, you can easily hop out for lunch at one of the many restaurants, bars and cafes in the area (without spending time on commute).
Also, for a quick weekend break, places like Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa and The Address are right at your doorstep. You’re also close to Dubai Marina Mall and public transport links (such as Sobha Realty Metro Station).
Discovery Gardens
If you are on a budget and want a quiet yet accessible neighbourhood in Dubai, Discovery Gardens might be for you.
Buildings in Discovery Gardens are found in ‘clusters: Contemporary, Cactus, Zen, Mediterranean, Mogul and Mesoamerican. There are studios for rent in Discovery Gardens besides 1 and 2-bedroom apartments. Retailers, restaurants and cafes usually surround residential towers.
The Discovery Garden Metro Station, Ibn Battuta Metro Station and RTA buses connect you to the city. Life for a remote worker is pretty convenient at Discovery Gardens, as supermarkets such as Carrefour are at your doorstep.
Dubai International Financial Centre – DIFC
Dubai International Financial Centre (or DIFC) might be a conventional ‘commercial hub’, but picture yourself living in an area surrounded by skyscrapers and iconic attractions such as Jumeirah Emirates Towers! Living in DIFC would mean being surrounded by the contemporary glitz of Dubai, which is perfect for a fun night out after a hectic day.
There are studios and 1 to 3-bedroom apartments available for rent in DIFC. Digital nomads can find popular restaurants in the area – such as Buffalo Wings and Rings, ShanghaiMe, Royal China Restaurant, Beefbar and BOCA.
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Now that we have shortlisted a few popular areas in Dubai for remote workers, here are some things to look out for in the building where you’re going to be staying:
- Try to find an apartment with gym facilities and a pool. If not, find one with gyms close by. The sedentary lifestyle, where you sit around for 8 hours with no walking/transportation involved, may not be suitable for your health.
- Look for apartments with a street view or garden view. Looking at another building while working at the same place can get monotonous.
- If you find noise distracting, avoid buildings on the highway. Hearing speeding cars and vehicles during work hours is probably not the best idea.
FAQs about Top Neighbourhoods in Dubai for Remote Workers
Is there a digital nomad visa in Dubai?
If you’re employed in your home country, a Digital Nomad Visa scheme in Dubai allows you to work remotely. Check out the GDRFA website to determine your eligibility. You can also read our UAE remote working visa guide for more information.
Can I rent in Dubai without being a UAE resident?
You can’t opt for long-term rentals in Dubai without being a UAE resident. However, plenty of short-term rentals (hotel apartments and holiday homes) are available for monthly charges.
That’s a wrap to our guide on popular residential neighbourhoods in Dubai for remote workers. Hybrid jobs are preferred by job seekers today for their positive effect on mental health and productivity. So, if you’re switching to the hybrid work setup, check out the places mentioned above and choose a home that suits your lifestyle.
Thinking of freelancing in Dubai? With the gig economy booming, it’s now easier and more affordable to live and work as a freelancer. Curious about how to get started? Read our guide on freelance visas in Dubai!
Bayut’s Dubai Rental Transactions page offers a detailed index of real estate transaction data from the Dubai Land Department, including property rent history, annual rental volume and values of area-specific rental transactions. This resource enables you to make informed decisions by comparing advertised prices with actual transactional prices for properties of interest.
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