Dubai, one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), stands as a dynamic, geographically diverse city. Nestled between Abu Dhabi to the southwest and Sharjah to the northeast.
Dubai’s strategic location has fueled its transformation into a global powerhouse for tourism, trade, and innovation.
In this blog, we will explore the geographical layout of the city starting from the southwest at Jebel Ali, which borders Abu Dhabi, and extending to the northeast at Deira and Dubai International Airport, bordering Sharjah.
Each district & region we have covered plays a vital role in shaping Dubai’s unique and ever-evolving urban landscape.
1. Jebel Ali
Jebel Ali, sometimes referred to as Mina Jebel Ali, is a continuously growing region. It hosts the largest marine port in the Middle East.
Jebel Ali encompasses several key areas, including Jebel Ali Port, Palm Jebel Ali, JAFZA, Jebel Ali Village, and the Industrial Zone. JAFZA is a free zone here.
Palm Jebel Ali is one among the trio of Dubai artificial islands, built in the shape of a palm tree. Besides, there is a golf resort, beach hotel and diving centers.
2. Dubai South
Dubai South is a multi-phase development consist of residential, commercial, logistics, aviation, hospitality and leisure zones under the government’s flagship.
It is also home to 18 golf course, a Business Park and Al Maktoum International Airport.
Al Maktoum International Airport, once fully operational at 2030, is expected to be the world’s largest airport.
Within Dubai South, there is an under-construction master community by Emaar, known as Emaar South, click here to learn more.
3. Dubai Expo City
Developed by Expo City Dubai Authority and located near the Jebel Ali Industrial Area, Dubai Expo City is a hub for global talent, attracting skilled individuals around the world.
It is a key part of Dubai's 2040 Urban Master Plan. The residential areas here focus on eco-friendly lifestyle.
4. Al Furjan & Discovery Gardens
Al Furjan is a popular family-centric under construction, villa community situated adjacent to Jebel Ali Village and Discovery Gardens. This master community is developed by the renowned developer Nakheel Properties.
Close to al Furjan, Discovery gardens is also a similar community built by Nakheel Properties with lush landscapes & Garden-themed residential clusters.
The area is well-connected by the Dubai Metro and other bus networks, residents enjoy excellent amenities and unmatchable convenience.
5. Dubai Marina & Jumeirah Beach Residences (JBR)
Northeast of Jebel Ali, Dubai Marina is a vast waterfront development with skyscrapers, luxury apartments, hotels, and numerous restaurants. The area is well-connected via major road routes and metro links.
Situated in the heart of Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) is a highly sought-after community by Dubai Properties, features over 40 high-rise towers, 35 of which are residential while the rest are hotels.
6. Jumeirah Lake Towers
Adjacent to JBR and Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) is a mixed-use waterfront community that houses the Dubai Multi Commodities Center (DMCC), and is the largest and fastest-growing free zone in the UAE.
JLT consists of 26 clusters, each named after a letter of the alphabet (A to Z), with three towers in each cluster featuring luxury apartments, offices, shops, and hotels.
7. Emirates Hills
Situated near JLT, Emirates Hills is a luxurious master-planned community by Emaar. It is a golfer’s paradise, home to the Montgomerie Golf Club Dubai, an outstanding 18-hole golf course.
Emirates Hills is recognized as one of the most family-centric and pet-friendly communities in Dubai, offering dedicated pet parks and playgrounds.
8. Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah is a vibrant residential, tourist and leisure destination of Dubai. It is the largest manmade island on the planet.
Set on the coast of the Arabian Sea, it is built in the shape of a palm tree, the island consists of the Trunk, the Crescent and 16 Fronds, together forming its unique shape.
The community evokes exceptional luxury with state-of-the-art facilities. This world-famous iconic destination is developed by master developers, Nakheel Properties. In short, it is the self-proclaimed eighth wonder of the world.
9. Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), is a circle-shaped community located towards the southeast of Palm Jumeirah. It is currently one of Dubai’s fastest emerging freehold community areas. The master developer behind JVC is Nakheel Properties.
JVC is somewhat 70% complete with full completion expected until 2030. Outside of the residential development. There is a mall called The Circle Mall, numerous hotels, offices and a total of 28 community parks.
10. Sports City & Motor City
Near JVC, there are two neighboring areas, Dubai Sports City and Dubai Motor City. Once part of a larger Dubailand community, each has now carved out its own identity.
Dubai Sports City primarily developed by Dubai Sports City LLC, which is a part of the larger Dubai Investments Group, offers a vibrant lifestyle with affordable residential options. It is home to notable landmarks like the International Cricket Stadium, the ICC headquarters, and Els Club.
While Dubai Motor City has been developed on a motor-sport theme by Union Properties and includes residential buildings, commercial towers and motorsport facilities.
11. Al Barsha
Northeast of JVC, Al Barsha is a residential development, divided into four sub-communities:
Al Barsha 1, Al Barsha 2, Al Barsha 3 and Al Barsha South. It’s also home to famous parks including Miracle Garden, Butterfly Garden and Barsha Pond Park.
Most apartment buildings, shops and restaurants are located in Al Barsha 1, while most villas are dotted across other communities.
Due to its convenient location, availability of educational & healthcare institutions, wide network of main roads and metro stations, it has become a popular address among young professionals.
12. Arabian Ranches
With close proximity to Al Barsha South, Arabian Ranches is a self-contained gated development by Emaar, Home to Arabian Ranches Golf Club, it is one of the first suburban freehold neighborhood in Dubai
In the early 2000s it was initially a part of the vast Dubailand project, alongside Sports City and Motor City. However, it soon established its own unique identity, thanks to its easy-going environment that truly embodies the concept of suburban living in Dubai.
13. Dubai Hills Estate
Next to Al Barsha South, Dubai Hills Estate is a luxurious master community by Emaar & Meraas.
The master community comprises 20 unique sub-communities, surrounded by an 18-hole championship golf course.
It boasts six schools, three hotels, two hospitals, a 54 km cycling track, and its own mega shopping destination, Dubai Hills Mall
Learn more about the community here
14. Dubailand & Al Barari
Southeast of Dubai Hills Estate lies Dubailand, a residential development by Dubai Properties. Initially envisioned as a 2 billion sq. ft. project in 2003, but now only sprawls across 3 million sq. ft.
The area is divided into several districts and communities including Al Barari, Layan, Dubailand Oasis, Majan, Falcon City of Wonders, Tiger Woods and Al Waha.
Among the above, Al Barari is the most elite gated eco-friendly community features lush botanical gardens, lakes, luxury residential villas and popular visitor’s destinations including The Farm restaurant, Heart & Soul spa, and Body Language health club.
15. The Valley
The Valley by Emaar is one of the esteemed residential communities by Emaar Properties offering upscale living.
This self-sufficient community is situated close to Dubailand and offers a range of top notch amenities, with a short walk from the residential area, there is a dedicated retail center called The Pavilion where residents can find retail stores and other facilities.
16. Business Bay
Business Bay is a prominent business hub and a vibrant mixed-use district in Dubai, located next to the sparkling Dubai Canal.
This prominent destination is home to leading international and local businesses, architectural masterpieces and renowned public transport links.
The area features numerous commercial buildings with high-profile offices, banks, shops, and renowned hotel chains, including Taj, Anantara, and Marriott.
17. Downtown Dubai
Adjacent to Business Bay, Downtown Dubai is a top-notch and most famous development by Emaar Properties.
It is the city's vibrant epicenter, celebrated for its iconic landmarks, including the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, the Dancing Fountain, and Dubai Opera.
Downtown Dubai is categorized into two sections: Old Town and New Town. Old Town features 35 low-rise buildings based on classic Arabian architecture, while New Town boasts modern high-rise structures contributing to shape city’s vibrant skyline.
18. DIFC
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is global financial hub, developed and managed by the DIFC Authority, it is formed by gourmet restaurants, high-end retailers, offices, banks and internationally acclaimed art galleries.
Besides a thriving commercial zone, it is also a vibrant residential community, ideal for those seeking modern suburban lifestyle.
It is one of the best area in Dubai with highly accessible public transport links seamlessly connecting to other parts of the city.
19. Dubai Silicon Oasis
A 20-minute drive southeast of Business Bay and Downtown, Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) is a free trade zone and integrated technology park designed for living, working, and leisure.
Often referred to as Silicon Oasis, this 7.2 million square meter community is situated at the crossroads of Dubai-Al Ain Road and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, it offers an ideal mix of residential, recreational, and commercial spaces.
20. Dubai Creek Harbour
With close proximity to Downtown, Dubai Creek Harbour is an under construction mega city project by Emaar.
The master development is located along the banks of the historic Dubai Creek, covering 500 hectares of land. It will soon host the world's tallest tower – Dubai Creek Tower.
It is home to Ras Al Khor wildlife Sanctuary, inhabiting over 450 animal species, it’s beautiful promenades, walkways and road connectivity make it one of the most premium communities.
Learn more about the community here
21. Mina Rashid
Mina Rashid, also known as Port Rashid or Rashid Yachts & Marina, is an iconic Dubai destination located along the coastline between Bur Dubai and Deira.
Emaar and P&O Marinas are on their way to transform the area into a coastal paradise, featuring waterfront residences, hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets. The development will also include a Dubai Mall by the Sea and 430 wet berths, positioning it as the world’s next premier coastal destination.
Discover more about the community here.
22. Bur Dubai
Bur Dubai is a historical district located on the western side of Dubai Creek, this historic district boasts an array of cultural landmarks, like the oldest Hindu temples and The Grand Mosque with the city’s tallest minarets, the influence of Indian expatriates is evident in the local markets, restaurants, and shops.
As one of the largest residential hubs, Bur Dubai hosts areas such as Al Mankhool, Al Kifaf, Oud Metha, Culture Village, Al Raffa, Al Jaddaf, Al Karama, and Umm Hurair.
23. Deira & Dubai International Airport
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