Best Places to Live in Dubai For Families

Discover the best areas to live in Dubai with a family

Finding the best area to live in Dubai with a family is no easy task. After all, there are tons of options to choose from, with all of the developments springing up. The upside of having so many options though is that there’s a community for everyone.

To find a new home for your family, you need to consider your unique needs. For instance, are your kids young or old, do you drive or use public transportation? Where do you work? Do you prefer a calm neighborhood or a vibrant one? What’s your budget? What amenities do you need? All of this will factor into your decision.

While every family is different, we’ve rounded up some of the best places to live in Dubai with family based on popularity. These areas have many amenities such as parks, supermarkets, nearby schools and hospitals, and more.

Arabian Ranches

This premium suburb by Emaar is one of the best residential areas in Dubai for families. Homes here exude luxury and are surrounded by lots of greenery and amenities.

Arabian Ranches is home to Arabian Ranches Golf Club, Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club, and multiple retail and dining options. You’ll also find schools and mosques here, ensuring everything you need is nearby.

Whether you decide to rent or buy a villa in Arabian Ranches, rest assured that you’ll be living in a holistic community that appeals to every member of the family.

Arabian Ranches is located along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and Al Qudra Road D63, close to Dubai Butterfly Garden and Motor City.

Jumeirah

This neighborhood is a timeless favorite thanks to its waterfront location near Jumeirah Beach and Kite Beach, as well as the abundance of schools, restaurants, and clinics. Villas for rent in Jumeirah range from 3 to 6-bedroom units.

Mirdif

Another well-established neighborhood, Mirdif has been one of the best places to live for families for years thanks to its large villas and affordable prices.

Despite being located away from the city center, it has everything residents need nearby including schools, malls, and parks, most notably the massive Mushrif Park which is great for outdoor activities. 

The villas for rent in Mirdif mainly range from 3 to 5-bedroom villas, though you might find a few 6-bedroom villas.

Those looking for apartments for rent in Mirdif can choose from studios to 4-bedroom units. 

Al Furjan

Al Furjan is an extremely family-friendly area thanks to its calm ambiance, green spaces, and availability of villas, townhouses, and apartments, catering to families of different sizes and budgets. 

Al Furjan is located next to Discovery Gardens and Ibn Battuta Mall, and has its own metro station. Moreover, it’s home to Arcadia Global School, The Arbor School, Jebel Ali Village Nursery and two community malls, Al Furjan Pavilion and Al Furjan West Pavilion.

Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT)

JLT is one of the best places to live in Dubai for families looking for apartments. The highrise community is extremely walkable as it’s built around lakes with promenades.

Nearly every amenity is available too. The area is rich with restaurants and cafes, supermarkets, and beauty salons, and is served by two metro stations. The flats for rent in Jumeirah Lake Towers come on high floors with expansive city views.

Affordable Family Areas in Dubai 

Looking for a home for your family that won’t break the bank? Explore these affordable family friendly areas in Dubai.

DAMAC Hills

DAMAC Hills 1 and 2 are some of the best areas to live in Dubai with a family. These gated communities have all kinds of amenities families would need, along with affordable apartments, villas, and townhouses for sale and rent.

DAMAC Hills is home to the Trump International Golf Club which has an 18-hole golf course, a health club, swimming pools, fitness centers and restaurants.

Not only that, but you’ll also find water lagoons with water slides and trampolines in the community. It's a popular spot among people looking for affordable Dubai homes for sale.

Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT)

Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT) is one of the best affordable family areas in Dubai thanks to its calm atmosphere, prime location, and abundance of amenities like schools, hospitals, and supermarkets.

It’s home to Sunmarke School, Arcadia School and Jumeirah International Nursery, making it great for families with kids. The apartments and villas for sale in Jumeirah Village Triangle are more affordable than those in other areas.

Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)

This popular community is one of the best places to live in Dubai for families thanks to its numerous facilities such as parks, schools, and supermarkets. It has about 33 parks, making it great for playing with kids and enjoying time outdoors.

Moreover, Circle Mall is a large community mall that has a variety of shops, restaurants, Spinneys and a Nesto Hypermarket. JVC is also home to JSS International School.

A wide variety of properties are available for sale and rent in Jumeirah Village Circle such as apartments, villas, and townhouses.

Motor City

Motor City is a great option for those looking for affordable family areas in Dubai thanks to its spacious apartments for rent in Dubai and plenty of green spaces. The area has a calm atmosphere and is home to the Dubai Autodrome and First Avenue Mall. Apartments for rent in Motor City range from studios to 3-bedroom apartments.

Find the best area to stay in Dubai with your family

As you can see, choosing the best residential area in Dubai for families depends on a lot of factors such as budget, location, amenities, and the size of your family. However, Dubai’s robust real estate landscape ensures that you can find what you’re looking for, so you can truly feel at home with your family.

DAMAC Hills

3.9/5

About

Damac Hills is a luxurious residential community located in Dubailand, developed by DAMAC Properties. The gated community is known for its upscale villas, townhouses, and apartments, surrounded by lush green landscapes and world-class amenities.
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Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 41,900 AED/year

For sale : 440,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

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Reviews from residents


Arabian Ranches

4.2/5

About

Arabian Ranches is a premium gated villa community in Dubai that’s all about upscale living with a desert-chic vibe. Developed by Emaar Properties and launched back in 2004, it’s located in Wadi Al Safa 6 along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, perfectly placed near Dubai’s Global Village for those weekend adventures.
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Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Villa prices starting from

For rent : 165,000 AED/year

For sale : 3,000,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

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Al Furjan

4/5

About

Al Furjan is a residential community in the Jebel Ali District developed by Nakheel. It offers a wide range of modern villas and apartments at reasonable prices. The peaceful neighborhood is a popular choice thanks to its amazing facilities and prime location.
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Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 42,000 AED/year

For sale : 470,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

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Reviews from residents


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Mirdif

3.3/5

About

Mirdif is among the most popular residential areas in Dubai. It's a calm, family-friendly suburb with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. Its reasonable rentals, many amenities, and peaceful atmosphere all contribute to its popularity.
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Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Villa prices starting from

For rent : 85,000 AED/year

For sale : 3,400,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

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Reviews from residents


The Springs

4.5/5

About

This gated villa community is favoured by young couples with children. The townhouses and villas provide the perfect antidote to the towering skyscrapers outside the community. The Springs Souk services most of your essential shopping and dining requirements.
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Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Villa prices starting from

For rent : 120,000 AED/year

For sale : 2,849,999 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

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Reviews from residents


Jumeirah

3.6/5

About

Jumeirah is a coastal area in Dubai that has long been a crowd favorite. It’s known for its breathtaking sea views and upscale lifestyle. Divided into Jumeirah 1, 2, and 3, the area blends luxury living with laid-back beachside charm. It’s well connected to main highways like Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), Al Wasl Road (D92), and Jumeirah Beach Road (D94), so getting around the city is a breeze.
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Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 59,000 AED/year

For sale : 2,150,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

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Jumeirah Village Triangle

4/5

About

Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT) is a lively residential neighborhood located in the heart of Dubai, with a diverse range of villas, townhouses, and apartments. Developed by Nakheel Properties, this community is recognized for its peaceful atmosphere and family-oriented environment. The community is designed with a variety of green spaces, parks, and modern amenities, promoting a well-rounded lifestyle.
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Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 40,000 AED/year

For sale : 419,988 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents


Jumeirah Village Circle

3.9/5

About

Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) is a popular residential community in Dubai developed by Nakheel. It attracts various demographics, including families, singles, and couples thanks to its many amenities, prime location, and reasonable prices.
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Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 38,000 AED/year

For sale : 399,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents


Jumeirah Lake Towers

3.9/5

About

Jumeirah Lake Towers, also known as JLT, is among the most vibrant and popular communities in Dubai. It’s characterised by man-made lakes that are surrounded by skyscrapers, enabling its residents to enjoy waterfront living.
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Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 50,000 AED/year

For sale : 515,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Motor City

4.2/5

About

One of Dubai’s best budget communities for families, Motor City offers spacious apartments in lush surroundings at reasonable prices. With little traffic, a number of play areas, and community pools, it's no wonder many families are attracted to it.
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Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Apartment prices starting from

For rent : 53,000 AED/year

For sale : 550,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents


FAQ

The best places to live in Dubai for a family are:

  • Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
  • Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT)
  • DAMAC Hills
  • Arabian Ranches
  • Mirdif
  • Al Furjan
  • Jumeirah Lake Towers
  • Motor City

Dubai is great for families thanks to its safety, diversity, and abundance of reputed schools, amenities, healthcare facilities, and entertainment options.

On average, a monthly salary of AED 22,160 to 37,460 is recommended for a family of four to cover essentials like housing, schools, groceries, leisure, and transportation.