Think of a lifestyle filled with culture, joy and traditions. Living in Al Muraqqabat, a sub-community in Deira, offers a similar experience. This traditional neighbourhood offers a mix of rich history and modern vibe. Buzzing with activity, it is a lively part of Deira, close to top-tier facilities and amenities.
Whether you are moving as an expat or a local, this community is a preferred choice. But is it worth living in this neighbourhood? Read ahead to learn about the pros and cons of living in Al Muraqqabat, Deira.
Overview
Al Muraqqabat, where the past meets the present, is one of the sought-after sub-communities in Deira. Once a fishing village, this area was later transformed into a residential and commercial hub. It is located near Dubai Creek and offers a glimpse into the region’s rich trading culture.
Set in a prime location in Deira, residents enjoy convenient access to main roads and multiple public transport options. Speaking of properties, the area mainly offers apartments and a few commercial spaces.
As it is a part of Deira, it buzzes with activity year-round. From shopping at traditional souks to dining at the many restaurants, there is no shortage of fun activities here.
Location
Al Muraqqabat is located in Deira and is surrounded by Al Rigga, Al Muteena and Al Karama in Dubai, UAE.
Pros of Living in Al Muraqqabat
Al Muraqqabat, the old part of Dubai, offers a cultural and family-friendly lifestyle. Let’s first look at the benefits of living in Al Muraqqabat:
1. Cultural Diversity
Are you moving to Dubai as an expat and looking to rent property? You can choose Al Muraqqabat as your new home. Given Dubai’s cosmopolitan population, Al Muraqqabat is a melting pot of cultures. The sub-community is popular for its cultural diversity, with people coming from Asia, Africa and the Middle East.
You can find like-minded people from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, Indonesia and other countries. This diversity promotes intercultural bonding and understanding, making Al Muraqqabat a peaceful place to live.
2. Prime Location and Connectivity to Public Transport Networks
One of the pros of living in Al Muraqqabat, Deira, is that it is well-connected to main roads and public transport networks. Residents can access Salah Al-Din Street, Omar Bin Al Khattab Street, Al Maktoum Road and Abu Bakr Al Siddique Road. Besides this, the sub-community is an 8-minute drive from Dubai International Airport.
Residents who prefer using public transport can use public buses and the metro. So, getting around the city is quick, cost-effective and hassle-free in Al Muraqqabat.
Nearby Communities
Here are the communities near Al Muraqqabat:
- Al Rigga: 6-minute drive
- Al Muteena: 9-minute drive
- Al Karama: 10-minute drive
- Al Garhoud: 12-minute drive
- Al Wasl: 15-minute drive
Bus Stops
Dubai bus service operates near the area via the following bus stops:
- Ghurair City 2 Bus Stop: 3-minute drive (Popular bus routes include 77 and C09)
- Al Rigga Metro Bus Stop 1: 4-minute drive (Most used bus routes include 77 and C09)
- Maktoum Road 2 Bus Stop: 6-minute drive (Routes 25, 27, 53, C01, C04, C05, E16, F04, X64 and X94 operate via the bus stop)
Metro Stations
One of the advantages of living in Al Muraqqabat is that it is in proximity to the following metro stations:
- Union Metro Station: 6-minute drive (Green and Red Lines)
- Al Rigga Metro Station: 6-minute drive (Red Line)
- Baniyas Square Metro Station: 9-minute drive (Green Line)
3. Properties at Affordable Prices
Al Muraqqabat offers affordable living at its best and features apartments, commercial spaces and hotel apartments. Whether you want to buy a small studio or a spacious 3-bedroom apartment, the sub-community caters to every need. As a commercial and trading hub, it also attracts business professionals.
Apartments for Rent
Apartments for rent in Al Muraqqabat, Deira, cater to different budget ranges and preferences. Here is the average apartment rental price in Al Muraqqabat:
Property Type | Average Rental Price Per Year |
Apartments | AED 62.5k |
4. Best for Families
If you are moving to Dubai with your family, choose Al Muraqqabat as your home. As a multicultural community, living in Al Muraqqabat, Deira, offers a connected and community-centric lifestyle. In addition, residents get access to all essential amenities within walking distance.
Moreover, the sub-community is home to several restaurants and religious establishments.
5. Proximity to Traditional Markets and Malls
Another benefit of living in Al Muraqqabat, Deira, is its proximity to supermarkets, malls and traditional souks in Dubai. Residents can find Deira City Centre and Al Ghurair Centre within a few minutes’ drive. These shopping malls feature local and international brands, offering a one-stop shopping experience.
For those who prefer bargaining, souks in Deira are the way to go. Located a few minutes’ drive from Al Muraqqabat, these souks are a huge draw among tourists and locals.
From buying souvenirs to shopping for authentic spices, these souks cater to both needs. The Gold Souk is the most popular, featuring 300 shops, offering gold and diamond jewellery. A few top ones are listed below:
Souks
- Souk Deira: 12-minute drive
- Souq Naif: 14-minute drive
- Dubai Gold Souk: 15-minute drive
Supermarkets and Malls
- Al Maya Supermarket: In Al Muraqqabat
- VIVA Supermarket: In Al Muraqqabat
- Al Ghurair Centre: 4-minute drive
- Reef Mall: 5-minute drive
- Al Rigga The Night Market: 5-minute drive
- Deira City Centre: 9-minute drive
6. Conveniently Accessible Facilities
Due to its central location in Deira, Al Muraqqabat is close to top-tier facilities and amenities. Want to undergo a specialised treatment? There are reputable hospitals near residences. Don’t feel like eating at home? Visit the restaurants nearby.
Let’s look at some of the notable facilities inside and near the community:
Educational Institutions
Families with children can benefit from the presence of nurseries and schools near the community. These educational institutions offer an enriching learning environment, with modern curricula, supportive teachers and state-of-the-art facilities. Here are a few notable nurseries and schools in Deira closest to the community:
- Tiny Tots Nursery: 9-minute drive
- Spectrum Nursery: 11-minute drive
- Pioneer Children Nursery: 13-minute drive
- Little Flower English School: 11-minute drive
- Pearl Wisdom School: 11-minute drive
Healthcare Facilities
Are you searching for healthcare facilities in Al Muraqqabat, Deira? Luckily, you can find some top-rated hospitals in Deira on a short drive. In addition to this, several clinics and medical centres are also easily accessible.
Whether it is a medical emergency, an urgent treatment or a routine check-up, these medical centres provide specialised services:
- First Medical Centre: In Al Muraqqabat
- LIFE GP Clinic: In Al Muraqqabat
- Amber Clinics: 3-minute drive
- Prime Medical Centre: 4-minute drive
- Gulf Speciality Hospital: 6-minute drive
- NMC Hospital: 11-minute drive
Dining Options
Due to its multicultural population, Al Muraqqabat is home to diverse food chains, from fast food to International cuisine. Whether you are craving your comfort food or looking to try a new taste, these restaurants in Deira near Al Muraqqabat are a must-visit:
- Bait Al Mandi Restaurant: In Al Muraqqabat
- Dencio’s UAE: In Al Muraqqabat
- Kabab Erbil Iraqi Restaurant: In Al Muraqqabat
- AZZA Restaurant and Cafe: 3-minute drive
- Shabestan Restaurant: 7-minute drive
7. Cultural and Lively Atmosphere
Living in Al Muraqqabat, Deira, offers a culture-oriented lifestyle. Residents can visit museums, hotels and tourist attractions, located a few minutes’ drive from Al Muraqqabat. Here is a brief on popular tourist attractions near the sub-community:
Museums
Journey through the past at the traditional museums near Al Muraqqabat, Deira. These museums showcase the UAE’s rich cultural history, evolution and historical artefacts:
- Pearl Museum: 10-minute drive
- Heritage House: 12-minute drive
- Naif Museum: 15-minute drive
- Bait Al Banat Women’s Museum: 16-minute drive
Hotels
Planning an escape to a staycation as a resident or a tourist? Book a stay at one of the following cheap hotels in Deira:
- Zain International Hotel: 5-minute drive
- Lavender Hotel: 7-minute drive
- Avani Deira Dubai: 7-minute drive
- Studio M Arabian Plaza: 11-minute drive
- Galaxy Star Hotel: 14-minute drive
Leisure Attractions
Residents can enjoy a joyous weekend at the leisure attractions near Al Muraqqabat. From mesmerising beaches to thrilling adventures, there is something for everyone. Choose to visit the beaches, soak up the sun and capture picturesque views. Or, visit an indoor adventure park and challenge each other to win.
If you are living in Al Muraqqabat, you cannot miss the following top things to do in Deira:
- Adventure Island Deira City Centre: 8-minute drive
- Fun City: 12-minute drive
- Al Mamzer Beach: 14-minute drive
- Jumeirah Beach: 18-minute drive
Cons of Living in Al Muraqqabat
Not everything is up to standards in Al Muraqqabat, and the residents also face a few challenges. Let’s look at the cons of living in Al Muraqqabat, Deira:
1. Non-Freehold Area
One of the major challenges of living in Al Muraqqabat, Deira, is that it is a non-freehold area. In simple terms, expats cannot own property in this sub-community. However, expats can still rent property in the community or consider freehold areas in Dubai like Al Furjan and Business Bay.
2. Traffic Congestion During Rush Hours
Residents can face traffic congestion during peak hours, resulting in packed streets, limited parking spaces and crowded markets. This is because Al Muraqqabat is part of Deira, a community that buzzes with activity. Because of constant noise, this community is not suitable for those who seek a peaceful lifestyle.
Moreover, due to huge crowds, motorists find it challenging to park their vehicles. This can increase travel time and cost. However, using public transport is the ultimate solution to this problem.
Summing Up
Pros | Cons |
Cultural Diversity | Non-Freehold Area |
Prime Location and Connectivity to Public Transport Networks | Traffic Congestion During Rush Hours |
Properties at Affordable Prices | |
Best for Families | |
Proximity to Traditional Markets and Malls | |
Conveniently Accessible Facilities | |
Cultural and Lively Atmosphere |
FAQs
Yes, Deira is a sought-after neighbourhood for local and expat families. It is known for its cultural diversity, family-friendly amenities and connectivity.
The choice between Deira and Bur Dubai depends on personal preferences and budget. Deira offers an affordable lifestyle and community-centric culture, while Bur Dubai is known for its comfortable lifestyle and slightly higher property prices.
Some of the best places to live in Dubai include International City, Dubai Marina, Al Barari and Bur Dubai.
Al Muraqqabat, Deira, captures the essence of old Dubai. Whether you seek affordability, connectivity or a family-friendly lifestyle, living in Al Muraqqabat offers it all. Compare the pros and cons and make a well-informed decision.
If you prefer a lavish lifestyle, consider these villas for rent in Deira.