Deira is one of the oldest areas in Dubai, with origins dating back to the 1700s. Thus, it’s home to many historical sites and traditional markets that showcase Dubai’s heritage. Located on the Dubai Creek close to Bur Dubai, it offers a culturally rich waterfront lifestyle and serves as a testament to Dubai’s history as a trading hub in the region.
Moreover, it’s the site of government buildings, embassies, historic buildings such as Heritage Houses and Al Ahmadiya School, and Dubai’s oldest mall, Al Ghurair Centre.
Deira is where old and new cross paths, with historical markets and buildings nestled among newer developments. All of this lies against a backdrop of traditional Dhow boats sailing along the Dubai Creek.
In fact, the Dubai Creek is part of what makes Deira a major commercial hub, as it facilitated sea trade. The area was in its heyday during Dubai’s pearl fishing era, and declined as the city became more industrialized and developed newer areas.
However, Deira remains a major commercial hub for traditional goods such as spices, textiles and gold. In fact, that’s what attracts many people to it.
Deira is located at the northern end of the Dubai Creek, near Sharjah, Dubai International Airport, Al Qusais, and Abu Hail. It’s a part of what is locally known as ‘Old Dubai’, along with Satwa, Karama, and Bur Dubai.
Deira has excellent connectivity via public transportation, with many metro stations and bus routes serving it.
Deira mostly consists of apartments ranging from studios to 3 bedroom units. The rental apartments in Deira are quite affordable since they tend to be old; in fact, it is one of the best places for renting cheap apartments in Dubai.
However, since many of the apartment buildings in Deira are old, they don’t come with the luxurious amenities like gyms or swimming pools, which are popular in many residential towers in Dubai.
Some popular residential districts in Deira are Al Muraqqabat, Hor Al Anz, Port Saeed, Al Muteena, Riggat Al Buteen, and Abu Hail.
Although it’s mostly an apartment-focused community, you may find a few villas in Abu Hail,
Al Baraha, and Hor Al Anz.
The properties here are popular among bachelors, expats, and families.
While Deira is not freehold, a new development off of its coast, Dubai Islands, offers freehold properties for sale in Dubai.
Dubai Islands, formerly known as ‘Deira Islands’ is a major artificial archipelago located off the northeastern coast of Dubai, adjacent to the historic Deira district.
The project, developed by Nakheel, spans approximately 17 square kilometers and consists of five islands, offering over 20 kilometers of new beachfront and proximity to key destinations like Port Rashid and Dubai Maritime City.
Dubai Islands is envisioned as a mixed-use destination featuring luxury hotels, resorts, premium golf courses, shopping centers, marinas, and a range of high-end residential options including apartments, townhouses, and villas.
Properties for sale on Dubai Islands are available for freehold ownership, meaning both UAE nationals and foreigners can purchase and fully own property outright in this area, making it an attractive option for international investors.
The data displayed is based on average prices and sizes of all apartments in Deira.
| Type | Avg. Price (AED/ year) |
|---|---|
| Studio | 38,000 |
| 1 Bedroom | 61,000 |
| 2 Bedrooms | 86,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | 111,000 |
| 4 Bedrooms | 207,000 |
The data displayed is based on average prices and sizes of all apartments in Deira.
Deira is one of the oldest and most established parts of the UAE. Today, it remains a key commercial hub, containing a large portion of all trading locations in Dubai.
The area blends historic charm with modern infrastructure, offering a unique old-town atmosphere.
Deira is home to a diverse population, with sub-communities largely made up of South Asian and East African ethnic groups, while still showcasing strong Emirati culture through its heritage sites and museums.
Located in the heart of Dubai and less than 10 minutes from Dubai International Airport, Deira is well-connected by road, metro, and marine transport such as abra. This central location allows for convenient daily commutes across Dubai and even to parts of Sharjah.
One of its biggest draws is the variety of rental options available at all price points. However, Deira is crowded and busy, which gives it a lively atmosphere, but it can be overwhelming for some and cause issues with traffic and parking.
Wondering if this is the place for you? Read about the pros and cons of living in Deira.
One of the best things about living in Deira is the availability of amenities on every corner. Here, you’ll find supermarkets, schools, clinics, and places of worship all within easy reach.
Nasser Lootah Pink Building
Great Choice for living with a family, highly recommend! Near you can easy find groceries, supermarkets, parks
Abraj Al Mamzar
I have been living in this building for one month now and I find it to be a place that is accessible, reliable, and worrhy of living. Just some improvements and it can become the best
Burj Nahar Building
Excellent property , as it is very clean , peaceful , good security with good maintenance team.
Ramada Deira Hotel
the best 4star hotel in deira, had a very good facility and nearby restaurants.
Wasl District
" Wasl District is really an amazing property where you can live peacefully with your family in the heart of Dubai. Though Deira/Naif is a crowded place, Wasl District has been designed in such a way that it doesn't affect the privacy of tenants. The property is well-maintained with two buildings, A and B, in a single compound. It offers spacious rooms with in-built wardrobes, washrooms, and kitchens with ample cupboards in really good designs. There's space for a washing machine, a balcony, pipeline gas, a central A/C unit, and corridors are cleaned every day. There are no disturbances or noise inside the property, and only families live as tenants. There's a play area for kids, and outside the building, there's a place designed for evening walks and sitting to chat with friends in a really good ambiance. Immediate security checks on fire alarms alerts, and the building is highly monitored with CCTV cameras. There's 24/7 security on duty, and verification of guests is done at the reception. Ample parking space is available, with entry only for tenants with access cards; guest parking is also available. The pool and gym facilities have entry access cards, with different timings for women and men, and a lifeguard is available for the pool. High maintenance and service are provided through the Wasl App, which I find really convenient. They come on time for maintenance at our preferred times. The most highlighted part of living here is the walkable distance to Union metro station, bus station, and Abra Station. Ghurair Mall/Reef Mall is within walking distance, as are mosques. You can also walk to Naif Markets (Naif souq, Murshid bazar, and Gold souq) and find all the leading supermarkets and restaurants nearby. The building itself is a landmark, and it's easily accessible to go anywhere around Dubai or to any other emirate using your own vehicle or public transportation. Overall, Wasl District is the best choice for anyone who loves to live in the center of Dubai with all the facilities at their doorstep and in a really well-maintained property with their family.
Murjanet Al Khaleej
Need renovation and maintenance and also needs proper garbage place not the way they used to bring the garbage from elevator going down to outside of the building.
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Deira
As a part of old Dubai, Deira is famous for having some of the city’s most historic areas and many popular landmarks like ancient forts and centuries-old gold and spice souks.