Community living is a growing trend in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Known for its luxurious and modern real estate, the UAE has now turned to developing community-focused residential areas, especially in Dubai. These can offer a great living experience for expatriates and immigrant families looking for modern amenities and a high standard of living.
At Remitly, we work hard to provide information and resources so that you can stay informed and make the best decisions possible for you and your family. This comprehensive guide on community living delves into features and benefits, top residential area communities in Dubai, and important factors to consider when choosing a community to settle in.
What to expect from community living in the UAE
Community living for both individuals and families is a way to lessen the feeling of isolation. By having a community within a community, residents are able to engage with one another while also having their other needs met—all in one place.
Overview of community living in the UAE
If someone were to describe the UAE, it would not be surprising to find luxury, infrastructure, and internationalism at the top of their list. The Emirates is a hub for business and with an 88.5% expat population, it caters to a wide variety of tastes.
Community living in the Emirates has become increasingly popular over the years, offering residents a well-structured environment that blends comfort, security, and convenience. Community living also offers a way to lessen the feeling of isolation and meet other people in similar circumstances. Whether you’re an expat relocating to the UAE or a long-time resident looking for a change of pace, community living might be everything you’ve been looking for.
A community and a lifestyle, all in one place
You’ll find a wide range of residential communities, from high-rise apartments in the city centre to peaceful gated neighbourhoods with open green spaces. These communities are designed to foster a sense of belonging on top of providing various amenities, which include fitness centres, swimming pools, outdoor spaces, and even shopping areas. With everything that you need all in one place, these communities provide their residents with leisure, social engagement, and the ability to work when needed. In short, it can be a haven for individuals and families alike.
Community dynamics play a pivotal role in the overall living experience. When looking into community living, every complex will be different, although they offer many of the same amenities and experiences. Think about what kind of community and living experience would be ideal for you.
Features of community living in the UAE
Safety and security measures
The UAE boasts one of the lowest crime rates in the world. According to the 2024 Global Peace Index, it had the second-largest improvement in peacefulness globally last year. Safety is a priority in the country, which is why communities are built to ensure their residents’ peace of mind.
Many residential communities feature:
- 24/7 security personnel and CCTV surveillance
- Gated entrances with controlled access
- Strict community regulations that ensure a safe and peaceful environment
Access to facilities and amenities
The greatest benefit of community living in the UAE is having everything at your fingertips. Residents have access to world-class facilities at their doorstep, ensuring a convenient and comfortable lifestyle.
Common amenities in community living areas:
- Swimming pools and fitness centres
- Children’s play areas and parks
- Retail centres, cafes, and restaurants
- Healthcare clinics and pharmacies
- Eco-friendly outdoor areas with walking and cycling lanes
The list above is just a starting point—many luxury communities offer this and more. For example, Arabian Ranches, one of Dubai’s most sought-after communities, offers premium amenities including an 18-hole golf course, two polo fields, and high-end retail outlets. It also hosts the Al Rahman mosque to meet religious needs within the community.
Social connections and networks
The global community in the UAE has long enabled newcomers and locals to engage with others and network—the Emirates isn’t known for international business and luxury for nothing. However, living in a well-established community allows residents to engage and network tenfold. By creating community-focused living areas, many neighbourhoods are able to host events, clubs, and other meetups that allow interaction with fellow residents. From fitness groups to networking events, residents can enhance their lives in ways they might not be able to otherwise.
Top community-focused residential areas in Dubai in 2024
Both mixed-use developments and gated communities have their benefits, such as exciting social opportunities. The main difference between the two types of community is simply access to the amenities. With a mixed-use development, you will have a combination of residential and commercial spaces within a certain area. However, in gated communities, facilities are restricted to residents and their guests, offering a more controlled and peaceful environment.
Mixed-use developments and their benefits
Dubai is a forward-thinking city, and you can see that in its urban planning. Mixed-use developments have been designed to integrate residential, commercial, and recreational spaces—a city within a city. Choosing one of the many mixed-use developments in Dubai or another city means you have everything you need within your immediate surrounding area, while still having all of Dubai to explore.
Popular mixed-use developments in Dubai and the UAE:
- Downtown Dubai: You’ll find high-end apartments, luxury retail, and hotels in the city centre.
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC): JVC is one of the most affordable community living areas in Dubai.
- Aljada: Sharjah’s largest mixed-use development, this community offers homes, hotels, parks, offices, and retail centres.
- Al Mamsha: Also located in Sharjah, this is a car-free, pedestrian-friendly community that offers modern apartments and leisure spaces.
Gated communities and their impact on lifestyle
Gated communities are comprised of villas and townhouses and are located in more suburban areas. If you aren’t interested in being at the centre of the hustle and bustle, gated communities offer a quiet, peaceful lifestyle while also ensuring there is plenty to do for you and your family.
Top gated communities in Dubai:
- DAMAC Hills: This is one of the most sought-after and greenest communities in Dubai.
- The Springs: This family-friendly community features open green spaces and modern amenities.
- Dubai Hills Estate: Connected to a key highway in Dubai, this community offers a wide range of homes for tenants.
Advantages of community living for expats in the UAE
Enhanced living standards and quality of life
If you are new to the UAE and looking to engage or simply have more amenities and activities for your children, community living can give you access to many different services to meet your needs. Well-maintained public spaces and eco-friendly initiatives like solar energy are just a few of the perks when it comes to choosing community living.
Whether in a high-rise in a mixed-use development or a villa in a gated community, residents who choose community living are paving the way for greener, better living standards.
Opportunities for cultural exchange and understanding
Gated communities and mixed-use developments bring communities together, connecting expats and locals through shared experiences and opportunities. With more than 200 nationalities, the UAE is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world. It can feel overwhelming, especially if you are a newcomer, but with community living, you are quickly integrated into a place that nurtures exchange. Look out for these opportunities:
- Multicultural events and festivals
- Community events, such as picnics, movie nights, and children’s activities
- Language exchanges and networking opportunities
- Charity events
- Lectures and workshops
Understanding community rules and regulations
Each residential community has specific rules and regulations residents are expected to follow. These guidelines are designed to keep the community peaceful and ensure harmonious living. While specific rules are tailored to the community you choose to live in, some typical regulations are:
- Noise restrictions during certain hours
- Pet ownership policies
- Visitor and guest access
- Waste disposal and recycling guidelines
Residents’ rights and responsibilities
By choosing to live in a community, you agree to follow the rules set forth for all residents. Of course, with rules come tenant rights, as you are guaranteed that your neighbours and the residence management will uphold their responsibilities.
Tenant rights include:
- Access to well-maintained common facilities
- Protection under tenancy laws
- The right to file a complaint with community management
Making an informed decision
Factors to consider when choosing a community
There is a wealth of information on life in the UAE, and community living is no different. Deciding where you want to settle in the Emirates means considering all the factors that will affect you and your family. Creating a list of your preferences and needs is the best way to narrow down your choices and find the best community.
A few factors to consider:
- Amenities and budget: Community service charges will need to be paid on top of regular monthly expenses and must be factored into the budget accordingly.
- Lifestyle preferences: Community size and demographics can be a key factor if you are looking to also be close to others from your home country.
- Proximity: The time it takes to commute to work or school can impact leisure activities and free time to socialise and engage with your family and community.
Resources for prospective residents to explore further
If you are considering moving to the UAE or simply ready for a change, check out these resources to help you find your new home:
- Property Finder: a comprehensive site for property listings in the UAE
- Bayut: offers insight on real estate and property listings
- Dubai Municipality: information on infrastructure and urban planning in Dubai and surrounding areas
Whatever you choose, community living in the UAE provides a rich experience of life through safety standards, world-class amenities, and a welcoming social environment. The UAE offers a variety of living options to suit different lifestyles. By understanding your preferences, community rules, and other key factors, you can make informed decisions and enjoy a fulfilling life in the United Arab Emirates.
FAQs
What does the UAE do for its communities?
The UAE is committed to investing in housing, security, public services, and sustainability to improve residents’ quality of life. Modern infrastructure, amenities, and social initiatives ensure residents have a well-rounded living experience.
What is community living in Dubai?
Community living, whether in a mixed-use development or gated community, offers an efficiently designed and secure residential area. Amenities include parks, fitness centres, retail outlets, and more. Popular communities in Dubai are Arabian Ranches and Downtown Dubai.
What is the standard of living like in the UAE?
The United Arab Emirates is renowned for its high standard of living. Luxury housing, world-class healthcare, and excellent infrastructure are just some of the pros of living in the UAE.
What are the main components of UAE community living?
Key benefits of community living in the UAE are:
- safety
- modern amenities
- cultural diversity
- sustainability