A high level of supply of residential real estate units in Dubai has been added to the market over the last few years. This has given residents plenty of new options to choose from, many of which fall under the affordable category. After researching and comparing various new communities in the city, we have outlined the key features, costs and facilities that they offer, making it easy for you decide where to move next.

Urban living near a landmark

Dubai Creek Harbour is shaping up to be one of Dubai’s largest mixed-use waterfront developments. The mega-city, once completed, will feature 48,500 residential units, a marina, yacht club and several hotels. It will also offer access to the emirate’s metro network. As a bonus – You get views of Dubai Creek Tower which is set to become the world’s next tallest building.

Despite the development’s luxurious offerings and grand plans, there are several buildings in the area with affordable rents. It could cost tenants anywhere between AED 80,000 to AED 100,000 per year for a two-bedroom apartment.

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Best of both worlds

Residents who prefer the extra space and the outdoors will want to check out Reem Community. The neighborhood is located within close proximity to the ever-popular Arabian Ranches area. The area includes two gated villa communities (Mira and Mira Oasis) and is an ideal choice for smaller families and nature lovers. What’s great about this area is the fact it is far from the hustle and bustle of the city. But at the same time, it offers all of the conveniences.

Renting a three-bedroom townhouse here comes with a cost range of AED 95,000 to AED 125,000 per year, depending on the square footage.

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Where the grass is greener

Part of MBR City, Dubai Hills Estate has emerged as one of Dubai’s most sought-after communities. It hosts several apartment buildings, villas and townhouses situated around an 18-hole championship golf course. To call this gated community a mega development would be an understatement. It remains one of the largest residential areas around.

Dubai Hills Estate is a great choice for nature lovers. It features parks, lakes and shared dining, leisure, sports, retail and cultural facilities (not to mention an on-site shopping mall in the pipeline) making residents feel like they live in a city within a city.

Average annual rent for a three-bedroom apartment in this area is AED 120,000. And rentals for a more spacious three-bedroom villa cost around AED 165,000.

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Family-friendly facilities 

Damac Hills has become a popular residential area for families due to its wide variety of community-centric facilities. You have access to everything covering lifestyle, education, sports, leisure, entertainment and healthcare. This place has a real community feel and attracts tenants and buyers who are looking for a more permanent place to settle down in.

Despite its down-to-earth vibes, the area is still very high-end and features exclusive properties designed by Fendi and Casa. It hosts well-known global-brand developments on site such as the Paramount Hotels & Resorts and Trump International Golf Club Dubai. Another selling point for DAMAC Hills is its convenient location. The community is only a short trip from the downtown area and residents enjoy easy access to Umm Suqeim Road.

Rents for a three-bedroom villa in the area range between AED 100,000 and AED 150,000, depending on the community and square footage. Rents for two-bedroom apartments in the area, on the other hand, hover around AED 100,000. 


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