Where British expats live in Dubai
Dubai has become one of the most attractive destinations for British expats. According to statistics, an estimated number of 240,000 Britons live in Dubai. This makes the city-state one of the most popular destinations for British expatriates.
So, what makes Dubai so attractive to British expats? For starters, the weather is consistently warm and sunny. Fuel is less expensive than in the UK, and salaries are tax-free, providing more disposable income. The cost of living is not limited to recurring expenses. Purchasing an apartment in Dubai costs almost four times less than in London (£ 2,869 vs. £ 3,451 per sq m).
Furthermore, English is the most common second language, meaning there are many British pubs and restaurants, and investors are entitled to the Golden Visa. On top of all these benefits, as non-residents, individuals can buy, rent, and inherit property in Dubai with minimal taxes. These factors make Dubai an excellent destination for British investors. The remainder of this article highlights the most popular areas to live in the city.
Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is one of the most popular residential districts in the United Arab Emirates — a waterfront community situated on 50 million square feet of the man-made marina. Dubai Marina is located in the heart of New Dubai, near Jumeirah beach for easy access. The number of British restaurants, pubs, and tea shops helps mitigate homesickness. The Marina offers top-class schools with a UK curriculum, such as Dubai British School in Emirate Hills, just a 12-minute car ride away.
Numerous luxurious apartments are available, offering breathtaking waterfront views. For those seeking a penthouse, several options are available at Penthouse.ae. The price for buying penthouses here starts from £3.5 million, and the ROI is around 7%.
Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
JBR is strategically situated in the heart of Dubai Marina, right off the Persian Gulf. This community is a hub for tourism and entertainment, making it one of the most popular areas in Dubai. Choosing JBR grants access to English eateries, water sports, and high-end shopping malls.
GEMS Wellington International School is located nearby and follows the National Curriculum (UK). Students have access to various resources and collaborations, as well as modern teaching methods. There is also a British Orchard Nursery for younger children, adhering to the British EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) curriculum. The school has been awarded ISO certification for quality, environment, health, and safety. Apartments in this area can be purchased for £3.3 million, and the ROI is around 5-10%.
Downtown Dubai
When thinking of Dubai, one may unconsciously picture the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. This and other landmarks, like the Dubai Fountain and Mall, can be found in Downtown Dubai.
It is also the financial centre of Dubai, providing numerous amenities. For those wanting to immerse themselves in as much cultural heritage as possible, Downtown Dubai is the ideal location. The Dubai Opera hosts opera, dance, and other musicals.
The area is also known for its chic cafes and nightlife. It has a Double Decker pub, particularly popular with the British community in Dubai. A luxury penthouse with a Burj Khalifa view can be acquired for £2.4 million. The ROI in this area is typically around 5%.
Palm Jumeirah
This area is an artificial island built to overlook the Persian Gulf, Dubai’s coastline, and the sprawling high-rise buildings in downtown Dubai. One of the most iconic landmarks in Dubai, the
artificial islands feature a relaxed vibe with low traffic, waterfront views, sports amenities, and high security.
The apartment towers are posh, the restaurants are upmarket, and the beach clubs have spas and infinity pools. This is the ideal location for those who want to bask in the sun with complete peace of mind. At night, the area transforms into a lively nightlife scene with live DJs making the rounds.
A seafront luxury duplex costs around £2.3 million, and the ROI is around 6.3%.
Umm Suqeim
Umm Suqeim is a residential area located along the Jumeirah Beach coastline. It is one of the most popular areas for British expats in Dubai and offers access to one of the best public beaches. It is a favourite spot for paddleboard and kayak rentals, skate parks, and volleyball courts.
Additionally, the area has access to hospitals and schools, and public transport is readily available. Schools in Suqeim follow the British curriculum. The Umm branch of King’s School has consistently been ranked “Outstanding” by KHDA.
A spacious apartment in this area costs around £2.6 million, and the ROI is around 6.3%.
Jumeirah Park
Away from the main city’s bustle, Jumeirah Park is the ideal suburb for family-oriented expats. The streets are lined with sprawling trees, green spaces, and public parks. For children, there is the Dubai British School located within the heart of the community. It is considered one of the best Taaleem schools in Dubai, ensuring that students are well-prepared for GCSE and IGCSE.
For younger children, Toddler Town British Nursery is available. It follows the British Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum.
A four-bedroom villa in this part of the city costs around £1 million, and the ROI is around 5%.
Arabian Ranches
An upscale gated villa community, Arabian Ranches is the perfect community for a high-quality family lifestyle. A quiet area where residents can enjoy relaxing strolls without the hustle and bustle of the city centre. For families with young children, there are many nurseries, all of which follow the British curriculum.
For those considering retirement, this could be the perfect location. Access to the Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club is available. A lovely two-bedroom apartment costs around £450,000, and the ROI is approximately 6.0%.
In a nutshell
Dubai is a vibrant city offering diverse neighbourhoods and communities to suit every lifestyle and budget. Whether someone is a young professional, part of a family with children, or a retiree, there is a neighbourhood in Dubai that will meet their needs.
From the high-end luxury of Downtown Dubai to the laid-back charm of Arabian Ranches, each area has its unique character and atmosphere. Individuals may also be pleasantly surprised to find that living in Dubai is cheaper than living in London.
Enjoying all these benefits tax-free and with great employment opportunities, residents can be assured of their safety in Dubai. The city, despite being located in the Middle East, is one of the safest places on earth. Residents, their families, and their investments can all enjoy the beautiful sunny weather.
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