Most Affordable Places to Live in Dubai

This self-sufficient neighborhood offers affordable apartments and villas close to Al Maktoum International Airport. The area is rich in amenities and is a hub for businesses in different industries.

DAMAC Hills 2 is luxurious yet one of the most affordable gated communities in Dubai. This residential community offers townhouses, villas, and apartments at reasonable prices surrounded by all the amenities you could need, including a golf course. It's a popular place to buy a villa in Dubai at a reasonable price.

This eclectic neighborhood tops the list of cheap residential areas in Dubai. Nakheel developed this community in 2002 to offer affordable housing.

It consists of studios, 1 and 2-bedroom apartments spread across 10 distinctly themed clusters. The clusters are named after different countries such as Spain, Greece, and China, and embody their architectural styles. International City is hands down one of the best places for finding cheap apartments for rent in Dubai.

International City is located in the Al Warsan region on the outskirts of Dubai. It’s home to Dragon Mart Mall and close to Al Warqa and Dubai Silicon Oasis.

Al Nahda is among the cheapest areas to live in Dubai. It offers studios, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments for rent in Dubai at reasonable prices. The area is located next to Sharjah, and has great connectivity via metro stations and bus stops.

This historically significant neighborhood is located along the Dubai Creek and near the Dubai International Airport. It’s one of the cheapest areas to live in Dubai, and there are many affordable apartments for rent in Deira. The neighborhood boasts a charming blend of old and new attractions and buildings. It is also well connected by metro stations.

Dubai Sports City is a popular choice among those looking for cheap residential areas in Dubai. It offers a large variety of properties including apartments, villas, and townhouses. It’s a haven for sports enthusiasts thanks to its sports venues, gyms, and even a golf course.

Next on the list is Dubai Silicon Oasis. This area is ideal for residential and commercial properties since it has a technology park that houses many start-ups.

It has both apartments and villas at reasonable prices, making it one of the most affordable places to live in Dubai. It’s located next to International City, Academic City, and Nad Al Sheba 4, at the intersection of Dubai-Al Ain Road (E66) and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311).

This peaceful neighborhood offers affordable apartments in low-rise buildings surrounded by amenities, making it great for those looking for cheap places to stay in Dubai. It’s next to International City and Dubai Safari Park.

Dubai Investments Park (DIP) is a self-sufficient community with residential, commercial, and industrial properties. It has many facilities, such as parks, schools, supermarkets and gyms. It’s located along Expo Road, next to Expo City and is served by a metro station. 

DIP offers reasonably priced apartments, and has a subcommunity called ‘Green Community’ which offers villas and apartments set in a green gated community.

Dubai South, formerly Dubai World Central, is a master-planned community built around the Al Maktoum International Airport. 

Strategically located in the south of Dubai, this massive development spans over 145 square kilometers and was launched in 2006 as part of the UAE's long-term growth strategy.

Designed to support logistics, aviation, commerce, and residential living, Dubai South is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious developments in the region. The area is centered around the future world's largest airport, which is set to handle over 160 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo each year.

The area was previously called ‘Dubai World Central (DwC)’ and was renamed to ‘Dubai South’ in 2015 as a part of a strategy to expand the project to serve more sectors rather than just aviation,which was the initial plan.

Dubai South's residential areas offer a mix of apartments, townhouses, and villas with modern designs and community amenities. The development strongly emphasizes walkability, green space, and affordable living, making it an emerging option for professionals, families, and investors.

Dubai South is set to play a key role in the future of global transportation and trade.

Key Highlights:

• Home to Al Maktoum International Airport

• Residential areas include Emaar South, The Pulse, and South Bay

• Offers a mix of villas, townhouses, and apartments

• Near Expo City Dubai and Dubai Parks and Resorts

• 18-hole golf course located in Emaar South

• Close to the future Etihad Rail station

• Developed with sustainability and walkability in mind

Location and Transportation

Dubai South is located in southern Dubai, near the Abu Dhabi border. It sits along Emirates Road (E611) and is directly connected to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311), providing convenient access to key areas like Jebel Ali, Dubai Marina, and Downtown Dubai. 

Nearby Areas

• Expo City Dubai: 12 minutes away

• Al Furjan: 20 minutes away

• Dubai Investment Park (DIP): 20 minutes away

Nearby Attractions

• Dubai Parks and Resorts: 15 minutes away

• Al Qudra Lakes: 25 minutes away

• The Outlet Village: 20 minutes away

Metro Stations in Dubai South:

There are no metro stations directly in Dubai South at the moment. The closest options are the Expo 2020 and UAE Exchange Metro Stations on the Red Line, which are a 15–20-minute drive away, depending on traffic. 

Bus Routes & Stations in Dubai South:

There are several RTA bus routes that connect the area to key parts of the city. Residents can use Bus F55, which links Dubai South to Expo 2020 Metro Station, and Bus F56, which connects to DanubeMetro Station.

Other bus stations near Dubai South

• Dubai South, The Pulse Terminus

• Dubai South, MAG 5 Boulevard

• Dubai South, Grand Express

• Dubai South, Majestic Royal

Parking in Dubai South

Parking in Dubai South is generally easy and convenient. Most homes come with private parking spots, especially in villa and townhouse communities. There's also plenty of visitor parking available in the vicinity. 

Properties

Dubai South offers diverse residential properties, including modern apartments, townhouses, and villas, catering to various lifestyle needs. Apartments are available in studio to 3-bedroom layouts, while townhouses and villas typically range from 3 to 5 bedrooms.​

Communities like Emaar South feature contemporary homes with open-plan layouts, private gardens, and access to shared amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and parks. Architectural styles are modern and functional, designed to support comfortable family living.​

The area is ideal for families, professionals, and investors seeking spacious, well-connected homes near Al Maktoum International Airport and Expo City Dubai.​

If you’re looking for a property for rent in Dubai South you will find:

• Villas for rent in Dubai South

• Townhouses for rent in Dubai South

• Apartment for rent in Dubai South

• Office for rent in Dubai South

If you’re looking for a property for sale in Dubai South, you will find:

• Villas for sale in Dubai South

• Townhouses for sale in Dubai South

• Apartment for sale in Dubai South

• Shops for sale in Dubai South

Lifestyle

Dubai South is designed for laid-back living, making it an excellent fit for families, young professionals, and anyone looking for more space without leaving the city too far behind. The area is organized into clean, well-maintained neighborhoods with green parks, playgrounds, and walkable streets that encourage a relaxed pace of life.

Dubai South is a popular choice for residents who want a calm environment, modern infrastructure, and access to daily conveniences. With schools, retail centres, and community facilities nearby, Dubai South supports a balanced lifestyle with everything you need close to home.

Whether you're after a starter home or something more long-term, Dubai South offers a practical, connected, and steadily growing lifestyle. Want to know if it fits your needs? Explore the Pros and Cons of Living in Dubai South.

Landmarks and Things to Do near Dubai South

• Expo City Dubai: A legacy site of Expo 2020, now home to cultural pavilions, exhibitions, and family-friendly attractions.

• Dubai Parks and Resorts: A central entertainment hub featuring Motiongate, LEGOLAND, and Riverland.

• Al Qudra Lakes: A popular outdoor spot for cycling, bird watching, and picnics.

• The Outlet Village: A retail destination with discounted luxury brands in a Tuscan-inspired setting.

• Jebel Ali Beach: A quieter beach option for relaxing and watersports.

Malls near Dubai South:

• Emaar South Village: A community retail hub located within Dubai South, offering convenience stores, dining options, and essential services for residents.

• The Outlet Village: A Tuscan-style shopping destination nearby, known for offering premium and designer brands at discounted prices.

• Ibn Battuta Mall: One of Dubai's largest themed malls, featuring a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment spread across culturally inspired zones.

• Dubai Marina Mall: A relaxed, mid-sized mall set by the waterfront, perfect for everyday shopping, casual dining, and leisure.

Restaurants and Cafes:

Dubai South offers a growing range of dining options for quick bites and relaxed sit-down meals. Many restaurants and cafes are located within Emaar South and nearby residential clusters, making it convenient for residents to dine close to home. Some popular restaurants and cafes in and around Dubai South include: 

• South Central Kitchen Bar & Terrace

• Jbroz Restaurant & Cafe

• Shawarma Al Karmel Dubai South

• Nook

• WXYZ Bar

• Wrap That Cafe

• Nyla Cafe

Hotels near Dubai South:

While Dubai South is primarily a residential and commercial hub, several nearby hotels offer easy stays for business travelers, tourists, and short-term guests. Some of the popular hotels near Dubai South include:

• Rove Expo 2020

A modern, budget-friendly hotel located at the heart of Expo City Dubai. It offers stylish rooms, a rooftop pool with views of Al Wasl Dome, co-working spaces, and direct metro access, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers.

• Holiday Inn Dubai Al-Maktoum Airport by IHG

Holiday Inn Dubai Al-Maktoum Airport by IHG is a modern, eco-friendly hotel located just five minutes from Al Maktoum International Airport and near Expo City and Dubai Parks & Resorts. It offers spacious rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, a fitness center, outdoor pools, and the Oasis Spa for relaxation. Guests can enjoy diverse dining options across multiple on-site restaurants, including the South Central Kitchen, Bar & Terrace.

• Aloft Dubai South

A stylish 4-star hotel located close to Al Maktoum International Airport, offering bright, modern rooms, a rooftop pool, and vibrant social spaces. It is ideal for short stays, business trips, and transit travelers looking for comfort with a contemporary edge.

Fitness facilities and outdoor activities:

Dubai South promotes an active lifestyle with various fitness and recreational amenities integrated into its communities. Residents have access to swimming pools, yoga and wellness spaces, and gyms within residential buildings as well as bigger gyms like Parkside 2 Gym and South Fitness Club. For outdoor enthusiasts, the area features jogging and cycling tracks, landscaped parks, and green spaces ideal for family outings and relaxation.

Developments like Emaar South and The Pulse Beachfront also include access to golf courses and beach-style leisure zones, offering a variety of ways to stay fit while enjoying the outdoors. The environment encourages a balanced lifestyle for families, professionals, and fitness enthusiasts. 

Beaches near Dubai South:

Dubai South isn't located on the coast, but beach outings are still easily doable. Residents can head to nearby spots like Jebel Ali Beach, Al Sufouh Beach, or JBR Beach, all roughly a 20 to 30-minute drive away for a quick escape to the sand and sea, whether it's for sunbathing, a swim, or a weekend stroll by the water.

Amenities

Dubai South is a master-planned community designed for convenience and comfort. Residents have access to essential amenities, including schools, clinics, supermarkets, and retail outlets, all within easy reach of their neighborhoods.

Schools & Nurseries in Dubai South:

Dubai South is well-suited for families, offering convenient access to nurseries and schools within and around the community. These institutions support various age groups and learning styles, making it easy for residents to find suitable options for their children's education close to home.

Schools near Dubai South

• GEMS International School

• GEMS Founders School

• Dove Green Private School

• Greenfield International School

Nurseries in Dubai South

• Tappy Toes Nursery (nearby in DIP)

• British Orchard Nursery 

Hospitals and Clinics in Dubai South

Dubai South offers a range of healthcare options to meet residents' needs. Within the community, facilities like Al Noor South Polyclinic and Saudi German Clinic provide general medical services, dentistry, pediatrics, and more. For comprehensive care, Jebel Ali Hospital in Dubai Industrial City and NMC Royal Hospital in Dubai Investments Park are nearby, offering a wide array of specialties and emergency services. 

Supermarkets in Dubai South:

Residents of Dubai South have convenient access to several supermarkets to meet their daily shopping needs. Notable options within the community include LuLu Hypermarket, Grand Hyper Sakany, Al Maya Supermarket, Geant Express, and ZOOM. These supermarkets offer a variety of products, ensuring that residents can find everything from fresh produce to household essentials close to home. 

Places of Worship in Dubai South:

Dubai South caters to a multicultural community, offering access to several mosques for daily prayers. While it primarily serves Muslim residents, the community is within reasonable driving distance of areas like Jebel Ali Village, where churches, temples, and gurdwaras are available for residents of other faiths, ensuring inclusivity and convenience. 

Mosques in Dubai South

• Dubai South Residential District Masjid

• The Pulse Mosque

• Al Maktoum Airport Mosque

Churches Near Dubai South

• St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church

• Christ Church Jebel Ali (Anglican)

• Dubai South Seventh-day Adventist Church

Temples Near Dubai South

• Hindu Temple, Jebel Ali

• Gurudwara Guru Nanak Darbar 

Beauty Salons in Dubai South:

Dubai South offers a variety of salons and spas catering to diverse beauty and wellness needs. Here are some notable options within the community:​

• Be Beautiful Ladies Salon

• South Beauty Centre

• Oh Lala Beauty Salon

Damac Hills 2 (formerly known as Akoya Oxygen) is a self-contained master development spread over 42 million sq. ft. located in Dubailand, between Jebel Ali – Lehbab Road (E77) and Al Ain –Dubai Highway (E66). It was launched in 2014 by leading real estate developer, DAMAC Properties following the success of their first community, DAMAC Hills.

It's a prime golf community in Dubai that has a calm atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city while still being connected to it via main highways. Damac Hills 2 is located on an 18-hole championship golf course, surrounded by lush gardens, parks, boulevards and lakes. It merges luxury with affordability, offering a wide range of properties including villas, townhouses and apartments for sale and rent.

The master development is split across 30+ residential clusters, as well as 5 leisure districts called Sports Town, Water Town, Down Town, Motor Town, and Equestrian Town giving residents plenty of options to choose from when they want to have fun.

In January 2023, Damac Properties launched a new cluster in Damac Hills 2 called Camelia. It features 3-storey townhouses at the center of the development in close proximity to many of the area's best amenities.

Damac Hills 2 boasts a wide array of amenities such as an outdoor cinema, a petting farm, 2 dog parks, jogging and cycling tracks. There are also more amenities that promote an active outdoorsy lifestyle such as paddleboard, tennis, and basketball courts, as well as a cricket pitch and five fitness areas.

More amenities are planned in Damac Hills 2 which include a waterpark, boating lake, and enhanced fitness and sports facilities.

Additionally, Damac Hills 2 is an eco-friendly community, with residential properties that utilize sustainable materials which save energy, eco-friendly lighting, and solar-powered water heating. Moreover, the community houses hydroponic cafe.

What makes this area so special is its focus on creating a convenient lifestyle for its residents where they can truly enjoy life in the midst of greenery and all the facilities they could need without the bustle of city life. With stunning views, numerous leisure activities such as golfing or swimming pools close by, Damac Hill 2 offers something unique that attracts numerous investors and home seekers.

Overall, if you are looking for an affordable yet extraordinary residential community located in Dubai, then you need look no further than Damac Hills 2!

This green neighborhood is ideal for those looking for affordable apartments surrounded by nature. The area stands out with its colorful low-rise buildings and tree-lined streets. It’s connected to multiple metro stations and bus stops and is located next to Ibn Battuta mall. The apartments for rent in Discovery Gardens are popular among bachelors and small families.