They say it takes a village to raise a child. But we think it takes a village to do most things—if you’re looking to enjoy life, that is. A community creates a sense of belonging. It keeps you safe and secure. And it promotes a healthy, active lifestyle. So why did we ever move away from the age-old way of living? We don’t know. But we do know that Dubai’s gated communities are taking us back to our roots—this time with a lot more style and luxury.
Behind the palm tree-adorned streets of these extravagant Dubai neighborhoods, lie families creating undying bonds. And as Dubai is seeing expats flooding in, the secure communities are becoming more popular than ever with families. .
That being said, there’s no reason to limit your downtime to vacations. And when living in one of the best gated communities in Dubai, you don’t have to. These residential areas come packed with activity-inducing facilities for every member of the family. If you’re looking to give your young ones the freedom to explore the outdoors, this is your answer. Or if you’re looking to pry your teenagers’ fingers away from the console—a plethora of basketball courts, football fields, and other state-of-the art facilities should do the trick.
Ready to box-up your house and move? Let’s go through the best gated communities in Dubai and the distinctive features that each one has to offer.
The most popular gated communities in Dubai for rent and to buy villas
Emirates Hills
Home to celebrities and politicians, Emirates Hills is at the top of our list of best gated communities in Dubai for a multitude of reasons. Boasting a world-class golf estate and exquisite lakes, Emirates Hills isn’t short of natural beauty. The state-of-the art gym facilities and enormous pools speak to the active lifestyle that the upscale estate provides. And the magnificent villas are perfect for entertaining with formal dining rooms and extravagant entrance halls.
With streets adorned with palm trees, Emirates Hills is the Beverley Hills of Dubai. And this exclusive estate makes you feel like you’re indeed living on the red carpet (minus the paparazzi).
Property price range
| Average Sale Price | Average Rental Price | |
|---|---|---|
| 2-bedroom | 18,000,000 AED | N/A |
| 3-bedroom | 3,700,000 AED – 8,000,000 AED | 349,999 AED |
| 4-bedroom | 29,800,000 AED – 53,000,000 AED | N/A |
| 5-bedroom | 23,000,000 AED – 75,000,000 AED | 1,400,000 AED – 1,600,000 AED |
Facilities
- Private gardens
- Golf course
- Huge swimming pools
- Gym
- Spa
- Kids play areas
- Fine dining
Location
Closest international schools: Emirates Hills Nursery, Dubai International Academy, Dubai British School
Closest hospital: Saudi German Hospital Dubai
Commute times to:
- Dubai International Airport: 30min drive
- Dubai Marina: 15 min drive
- Downtown Dubai 24min drive
Akoya Oxygen
Named after the Japanese term for “pearl”, the appropriate title alludes to the natural beauty of the estate. The opulent villas and townhouses overlook a plethora of greenery. Whilst they simultaneously boast elegantly modern interiors. The securely gated community has everything you need for luxury living. Its restaurant, gyms, pools, and supermarkets are some of the best in the city. And home to the Trump International Golf Club, an opulent yoga enclave and serene spa you’ll be amongst the elite when socializing with fellow residents.
Akoya Oxygen is the first authentically “green” estate. And if you’re looking for a home to match your environmentally conscious lifestyle, this Dubai neighborhood is one to seriously consider.
Property price range
| Average Sale Price | Average Rental Price | |
|---|---|---|
| 2-bedroom | 949,000 AED – 1,100,000 AED | 59,900 AED – 69,999 AED |
| 3-bedroom | 729,999 AED – 2,500,000 AED | 12,000 AED – 40,000 AED |
| 4-bedroom | 799,000 AED – 2,700,000 AED | 14,000 AED – 100,000 AED |
| 5-bedroom | 1,100,000 AED – 5,900,000 AED | 80,000 AED – 400,000 AED |
Facilities
- Swimming pools
- Hotels
- Golf courses
- School
- Nursery
- Parks
- Football pitches
- Basketball and badminton courts
- Supermarkets
- Spa
- Wellness center
- Skating park
Location
Closest international schools: Creakids, Jebel Ali School
Closest hospital: Saudi German Clinics
Commute times to:
- Dubai International Airport: 35min drive
- Dubai Marina: 28min drive
- Downtown Dubai: 34min drive
Arabian Ranches
Renowned as one of the best residential communities in Dubai, Arabian Ranches flaunts superior infrastructure and state-of-the art facilities. The golf course, tennis courts, and polo fields encourage laid-back outdoors living. It is also home to top international schools and skate parks, volleyball courts and playgrounds make it ideal for young families. Whilst serene spas and sophisticated restaurants speak to the luxurious lifestyle embodied by the community.
The modern villas are a loving marriage between Arabic and Mediterranean architectures. And designed with the modern owner in mind, the avant-garde styles are sure to distinguish your home from neighboring estates.
Property price range
| Average Sale Price | Average Rental Price | |
|---|---|---|
| 2-bedroom | 1,649,995 AED – 3,100,000 AED | 100,000 AED – 180,000 AED |
| 3-bedroom | 2,200,000 AED – 6,250,000 AED | 136,000 AED – 320,000 AED |
| 4-bedroom | 2,950,000 AED – 8,000,000 AED | 200,000 AED – 439,995 AED |
| 5-bedroom | 4,999,999 AED – 23,250,000 AED | 324,990 AED – 525,000 AED |
Facilities
- Golf course
- Large lakes
- Full-sized tennis courts
- International-sized polo fields
- Volleyball court
- Swimming pools
- Skate park
- Walking trails
- Mosques
- Medical clinic
- Petrol and police stations
- Parks and kids area/playgrounds
- Hair salon and spa
- Restaurants
Location
Closest international schools: Raffles Nursery, Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Ranches Primary School, GEMS United School
Closest hospital: Aster Clinic, Mediclinic
Commute times to:
- Dubai International Airport: 37min drive
- Dubai Marina: 21min drive
- Downtown Dubai: 23min drive
Dubai Hills Estate
With the iconic Burj Khalifa backdrop, this decadent estate is one of our most popular Dubai neighborhoods. A championship golf course, vast green areas, bicycle routes and endless walkways inspire a healthy outdoors lifestyle for adults and children alike. Whilst a high-end shopping center and fine dining restaurants embody the affluent lifestyle.
The event-filled area is rich with ladies nights and brunches, making it the perfect place for expats to find comfort it a community. And the diverse estate is not short of housing options. From avant-garde apartments to family-friendly villas, you’re bound to find the perfect one to come home to.
Property price range
| Average Sale Price | Average Rental Price | |
|---|---|---|
| 2-bedroom | N/A | N/A |
| 3-bedroom | 2,600,000 AED – 6,900,000 AED | 170,000 AED – 420,000 AED |
| 4-bedroom | 3,000,000 AED – 33,000,000 AED | 185,000 AED – 450,000 AED |
| 5-bedroom | 3,100,000 AED – 43,000,000 AED | 220,000 AED – 1,300,000 AED |
Facilities
- Championship golf course
- Shopping mall
- Bicycle routes
- Community pools
- Landscaped walkways
- Parks and play areas
- Schools
- Tennis courts
Location
Closest international schools: GEMS International School Al Khail, GEMS Wellington Academy Al Khail, Kings’ School Al Barsha
Closest hospital: King’s College Hospital
Commute times to:
- Dubai International Airport: 18min drive
- Dubai Marina: 15min drive
- Downtown Dubai:17min drive
The Springs
Complete with the privileges of a gated community, the serene surroundings provide the perfect environment to raise a family. The modern amenities such as basketball courts and football grounds keep children of every age occupied. And dog-friendly walkways, communal barbeque areas, pools and play areas make it easy to socialize with other parents. While private backyards allow for moments alone. World-class salons and spas make room for frequent retreats.
These luxurious houses are idyllic in contrast to the skyscrapers around the corner. And the secure neighborhood makes it possible to escape the hustle and bustle of Dubai., whilst still enjoying the advantages of the cosmopolitan city.
Property price range
| Average Sale Price | Average Rental Price | |
|---|---|---|
| 2-bedroom | 1,525,000 AED – 3,450,000 AED | 94,999 AED – 195,000 AED |
| 3-bedroom | 2,299,999 AED – 5,250,000 AED | 160,000 AED – 350,000 AED |
| 4-bedroom | 2,900,000 AED – 3,700,000 AED | N/A |
| 5-bedroom | 12,800,000 AED | N/A |
Facilities
- Malls
- Restaurants
- Several lakes
- Cycle paths
- Dog-friendly walkways
- Community pools
- Children’s play areas
- Outdoor gym equipment
- BBQ areas
- Salons and spas
- Basketball courts
- Football fields
Location
Closest international schools: Raffles Nursery, Dubai British School
Closest hospital: Al Zahra Hospital
Commute times to:
- Dubai International Airport: 35min drive
- Dubai Marina: 14min drive
- Downtown Dubai: 25min drive
DAMAC Hills
Known for its vibrant vibe, DAMAC Hills is one of the best residential communities in Dubai. The shared facilities make it the perfect home to expats looking for a community. And schools on the premises mean that you never hit early morning traffic. Urban architecture speaks to a high-end contemporary mentality. And niche sporting grounds, such as badminton courts, basketball courts, and skate parks promise to keep the youth entertained for hours while you reprieve at the spa or pool.
Located away from the city center, the tranquility surrounding the DAMAC Hills properties is unparalleled. And nonstop security means that you can put your feet up the minute that you arrive home.
Property price range
| Average Sale Price | Average Rental Price | |
|---|---|---|
| 2-bedroom | 2,500,000 AED – 2,299,000 AED | 140,000 AED |
| 3-bedroom | 1,520,000 AED – 5,000,000 AED | 125,000 AED – 285,000 AED |
| 4-bedroom | 1,689,998 AED – 10,000,000 AED | 260,000 AED |
| 5-bedroom | 2,500,000 AED – 13,500,000 AED | 260,000 AED – 900,000 AED |
Facilities
- Swimming pools
- Hotels
- Golf courses
- School
- Nursery
- Parks
- Football pitches
- Basketball and badminton courts
- Supermarkets
- Spa
- Wellness center
- Skating park
Location
Closest international schools: Creakids, Jebel Ali School
Closest hospital: Aster Medical Center
Commute times to:
- Dubai International Airport: 34min drive
- Dubai Marina: 26min drive
- Downtown Dubai: 30min drive
Al Barari
This environmental estate epitomizes luxury living from the minute you enter the gates, whilst still maintaining its eco-conscious vision. Al Barari is named after the Arabic word for “wilderness” for good reason. And the sustainable community ensures that the area’s natural beauty is at the forefront of the overall design. The unspoiled grounds flaunt many botanic hideaways, landscaped lakes, and freshwater streams. Whilst it is also appropriately home to the largest privately-owned plant nursery—an absolute haven for our green-fingered friends.
The tranquil residential community has everything you need on your doorstep—from gourmet restaurants to a state-of-the art fitness center to pools and relaxation areas. It is home to a diverse group of people. And whether you’re looking for a modern one-bedroom apartment or an idyllic five-bedroom home for hosting, Al Barari is likely to exceed your highest expectations.
Property price range
| Average Sale Price | Average Rental Price | |
|---|---|---|
| 2-bedroom | N/A | N/A |
| 3-bedroom | N/A | N/A |
| 4-bedroom | 3,999,959 AED – 35,000,000 AED | 1,200,000 AED – 1,500,000 AED |
| 5-bedroom | 6,900,000 AED – 45,000,000 AED | 1,500,000 AED |
Facilities
- Gourmet restaurant
- State of the art fitness center
- Residents’ pool and relaxation area
- Largest privately-owned plant nursery
Location
Closest international schools: Dunecrest American School, GEMS Winchester School
Closest hospital: Al Zahra Hospital
Commute times to:
- Dubai International Airport: 24min drive
- Dubai Marina: 29min drive
- Downtown Dubai: 24min drive
The Meadows
As one of the best places to live in Dubai, The Meadows meets the highest standards and specifications. The comfortable atmosphere is set amongst lush parks and inviting lakes. While shared amenities facilitate a communal lifestyle and encourage a relaxed active lifestyle. The tennis courts, restaurants, pools, gyms, and barbeque areas are perfect for catching up with neighbors. And children are bound to find their slice of heaven with a huge range of activities to choose from.
The lavish villas are bound by fortnight-like security. And you’ll be able to rest easy knowing that health clinics and schools are available on the premises.
Property price range
| Average Sale Price | Average Rental Price | |
|---|---|---|
| 2-bedroom | N/A | N/A |
| 3-bedroom | 4,399,888 AED – 6,500,000 AED | 255,000 AED – 290,000 AED |
| 4-bedroom | 4,900,000 AED – 9,299,950 AED | 270,000 AED – 620,000 AED |
| 5-bedroom | 5,350,000 AED – 12,999,950 AED | 280,000 AED – 920,000 AED |
Facilities
- Mosque
- Restaurants
- Parks
- Lakes
- School
- Health clinics
- Basketball court
- Tennis court
- Gyms
- Spa
- Swimming pool
- BBQ areas
Location
Closest international schools: Amity Early Learning Centre, Emirates International School
Closest hospital: Mediclinic Meadows
Commute times to:
- Dubai International Airport: 20min drive
- Dubai Marina: 15min drive
- Downtown Dubai: 20min drive
Meydan
Home to the world-famous Race Course, it is no surprise that Meydan City is one of the top villa communities in Dubai. And with Meydan meaning “a meeting place” in Arabic, you’ll never be short of entertainment options for the kids—from movie theaters, recreational parks and play areas. Whilst luxurious malls, sky bubble restaurants, clubs and boat houses take care of all your social needs. Jogging tracks, cycling paths and a golf course make exercising effortless. And the horse racing museum is one to take your guests around.
Meydan’s reliable security makes it the perfect neighborhood to raise your family. And the alluring architecture speaks to the affluence of the iconic horse-racing event.
Property price range
| Average Sale Price | Average Rental Price | |
|---|---|---|
| 2-bedroom | 2,000,000 AED | N/A |
| 3-bedroom | N/A | N/A |
| 4-bedroom | 3,670,000 AED – 8,688,000 AED | 275,000 AED – 280,000 AED |
| 5-bedroom | 4,500,000 AED – 13,000,000 AED | 550,000 AED – 700,000 AED |
Facilities
- Malls
- Canals
- Recreational parks and play areas
- Jogging tracks
- Cycling paths
- IMAX movie theaters
- Sky bubble restaurants
- Clubs and boat houses
- Horse racing tracks
- Golf course
- Horse racing gallery and museum
Location
Closest international schools: International Concept for Education, Hartland International School, North London Collegiate School
Closest hospital: Mediclinic City Hospital
Commute times to:
- Dubai International Airport: 20min drive
- Dubai Marina: 25min drive
- Downtown Dubai: 17min drive
Jumeirah Golf Estates
Teeing off has never been so tempting. Jumeirah’s luxurious houses are built around the iconic Fire and Earth courses and are every golf-enthusiast’s dream. But the mesmerizing estates if far more than just a golf estate. And the modern facilities promise to entice every member of the family. The clubhouse is the perfect way to end the week with fellow residents. And the kid’s play area ensures that they never grow bored. Whilst estate-bound supermarkets are an effortless way to stay stocked-up.
Jumeirah Golf Estates is everything we love about gated communities. And the serene environment is the perfect way to nestle into a new country if you’re moving from abroad.
Property price range
| Average Sale Price | Average Rental Price | |
|---|---|---|
| 2-bedroom | N/A | N/A |
| 3-bedroom | 3,495,000 AED – 4,300,000 AED | N/A |
| 4-bedroom | 4,400,000 AED – 11,000,000 AED | 275,000 AED – 280,000 AED |
| 5-bedroom | 5,930,000 AED – 23,500,000 AED | 550,000 AED – 700,000 AED |
Facilities
- Supermarket
- Clubhouse
- Kids play area
- Green areas
- Mosque
- Walking lanes
- Jogging areas
- Jumeirah golf club
- Swimming pool
Location
Closest international schools: Kids Kingdom Nursery School, Sunmarke School,
Closest hospital: Medicentres Jumeirah Park
Commute times to:
- Dubai International Airport: 34min drive
- Dubai Marina: 25min drive
- Downtown Dubai: 23min drive
Mudon
As a sub-community of Dubailand, Mudon is home to hundreds of luxurious houses. The secure estate is a popular choice for foreigners new to the country. And planned events such as Ladies Night or the Nomad Brunch make meeting people a whole lot easier. While the state of the art facilities ensure that both yourself and your children have plenty of options on a day to day basis. The all-encompassing grounds epitomize convenience and comfort as they house supermarkets, pharmacies, and salons for all everyday essentials.
Outdoor activities are abundant with jogging tracks, tennis courts, and basketball courts (to name a few). And the Fairgreen International School is less than a kilometer away, making the daily drop-off easier than ever.
Property price range
| Average Sale Price | Average Rental Price | |
|---|---|---|
| 2-bedroom | N/A | N/A |
| 3-bedroom | 1,349,990 AED – 4,600,000 AED | N/A |
| 4-bedroom | 2,350,000 AED – 4,950,000 AED | 269,000 AED – 750,000 AED |
| 5-bedroom | 2,799,989 AED – 8,000,000 AED | 375,000 AED – 1,200,000 AED |
Facilities
- Supermarkets
- Pharmacies
- Salons
- Coffee shops
- Jogging track
- Cycling track
- Outdoor gym
- Swimming pools
- Tennis courts
- Basketball courts
- Football courts
- Play areas
- Plaza area
Location
Closest international schools: Jumeirah English Speaking School
Closest hospital: Mediclinic Arabian Ranches
Commute times to:
- Dubai International Airport: 28min drive
- Dubai Marina: 24min drive
- Downtown Dubai: 26min drive
Best gated communities in Dubai: Summary
| Property Types | Average Annual Rental Price (in AED) | Average Size (square feet) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emirates Hills | Townhouses, villas and mansions | 268,474 | 4,576 |
| Akoya Oxygen | Apartments, townhouses and villas | 130,000 | 3,000 |
| Arabian Ranches | Townhouses and villas | 133,910 | 2,322 |
| Dubai Hills Estate | Apartments and villas | 185,319 | 2,641 |
| The Springs | Villas | 146,000 | 2,656 |
| DAMAC Hills | Studios, apartments, townhouses and villas | 211,751 | 3,909 |
| Al Barari | Apartments and villas | 724,865 | 12,015 |
| The Meadows | Villas | 265,000 | 4,751 |
| Meydan | Studios, apartments and villas | 190,000 | 2,532 |
| Jumeirah Golf Estates | Apartments, townhouses and villas | 443,058 | 5,585 |
| Mudon | Apartments and villas | 205,632 | 3,808 |
Gated communities vs villa compounds
Communal Dubai neighborhoods usually take the form of gated communities or villa compounds. Both of them balance a sense of community with privacy. And they usually include shared facilities and round-the-clock security. Although both housing options are very similar in many ways, the technical differences play an important role when choosing where to live.
One of the biggest differences to note is with regard to ownership. Gated communities in Dubai are planned developments available for rent or sale to the expat community. Villa compounds, on the other hand, are clusters of villas found in areas where properties for sale are exclusive to locals. This means that expats cannot buy property but can rent in the area. And instead of a master-planned community, it is up to the residents to form their own.
Another big difference between gated communities and villa compounds is the size of the residential areas. Gated communities are typically much larger and often house up to 1,000 villas. Villa compounds are much smaller by comparison and usually consist of about 40 villas, with a 150-villa compound considered large. Villa communities have also been around for a lot longer and most of the popular ones were at the forefront of the boom of expat settlements. These days, many people are referring to the gated communities as more contemporary compounds, as they’re renowned for taking luxurious living one step further.
Benefits of living in a gated community
Gated communities in Dubai come with a plethora of benefits. The most obvious one is security. You can sleep peacefully every night, knowing that your family is undoubtedly safe. This is one of the biggest reasons that we see expats flocking to the enclosed estates. And it is one that we are totally behind.
Along with unparalleled security, the best gated communities in Dubai perfectly marry the sense of belonging (and community) within the privacy of your own home. The shared facilities make interacting with neighbors effortless. While opulent villas give you the space you need to reprieve or entertain privately. Besides bringing people together, state-of-the-art facilities double up as your encouragement to live an active lifestyle. And regular tennis matches, golf games, and walks in nature are all part and parcel of joining the community.
Gated communities also offer a whole new host of advantages for new or old parents. Many of them have top international schools on the property or within walking distance. Endless outdoor activities are bound to keep young fingers off of consoles and on a field or court. And various supervision options afford you to run errands without interference. On top of it all, you can kiss hours in traffic goodbye. So if you weren’t convinced before, we’re pretty sure that’ll get you.
Frequently asked questions about gated communities in Dubai
The top residential communities in Dubai all have something unique to offer. Emirates Hills has that Beverly Hills feel. Akoya Oxygen is the first truly green estate for the environmentally conscious. And Arabian Ranches is renowned for its’ superior infrastructure and facilities. But for the best idea of where to live, we recommend reading our full article where we review the best gated communities in Dubai.
These top Dubai neighborhoods, known as gated communities are highly prestigious for different reasons. Jumeirah Golf Estates is renowned for its world-class courses. While Meydan is home to the iconic horse race. And Al Barari embodies luxury with grandiose villas, designed for entertaining. For a better idea of which community is right for you, read our full review of the best gated communities in Dubai.
All of the gated villa communities in Dubai are marketed at affluent buyers and renters. And many of the secure neighborhoods are home to the rich and famous. So if you’re worried about living on the wrong side of town, you needn’t be concerned when choosing between our top picks of the best gated communities in Dubai.
Gated communities are rich with comfort, convenience, and luxury, making them some of the best places to live in Dubai. When looking to buy or rent in one of these secure, serene estates, you’ll be amongst many other affluent investors. And at the end of the day, you get (more than) what you pay for with peace-of-mind and an unparalleled lifestyle.
Celebrities are known to nestle into the top villa communities in Dubai for many reasons. The biggest being safety and security. And along with the reprieve from busy roads and commercial facilities, they’re often also looking to give their children a better lifestyle.
