Dubai's most affordable neighborhoods for families (PNC staff report, October 2014 )

The rents in Dubai have dramatically increased over the last two years.  Tens of thousands of families have been forced to relocate to more affordable areas and even neighboring Emirates such as Sharjah and Ajman.  As rents finally start to stabilize, PNC comes to you with the list of the most affordable areas in Dubai for one-bedroom units.  If you’re going to find a place in Dubai that won’t leave you bankrupt and broker, it’s going to be in one of the following places:

INTERNATIONAL CITY - FREEHOLD

International City remains Dubai’s cheapest accommodation for one-bedroom units in the freehold sector of Dubai.  The neighborhood has proven to be popular among many families and bachelors wishing to live in Dubai and skipping the traffic woes the residents of Sharjah and Ajman face daily.  The neighborhood has developed into a thriving community, fueled by the Nakheel’s Dragon Mart.  Average time to the center of Dubai (Downtown Dubai) is 20 minutes.

DISCOVERY GARDENS - FREEHOLD

The neighborhood might be one of Dubai’s most affordable, but it isn’t cheap by any means.  One-bedroom units are currently being rented at AED 70,000 a month, even though the supply of units in the area touches nearly thirty thousand.  However the community has developed into a green and lush oasis with ample entertainment near by including Ibn Battuta Mall and Jumeirah Beach a mere ten minutes drive away.

GHUSAIS – NON FREEHOLD

If one neighborhood is to be among the most affordable in Dubai, it is bound to be the one closest to Sharjah.  Ghusais shares a border with neighboring Sharjah, but at peak hours in the morning, commuters spend nearly an hour making their way from Sharjah into Ghusais.  Evening is even worst.  However those residing in Ghusais rather than Sharjah can assure themselves of less time on the road, and more time with family and friends (at a cost most are willing to bear.

DEIRA – NON FREEHOLD

There are families living in Deira who have been there for over twenty years, and for good reason!  The area has been the hub of old Dubai commercially, and unlike the newer areas of Dubai, still exhumes the traditional and cultural values of the UAE.  Availability is low for one-bedroom units for families, but if you find one, hold on to it.  The prices are better than most places in Dubai.