Dubai’s new communities developing along its outskirts, combining the best of work, life and play, are suddenly abuzz with activity. As the city grows, developing its road networks and transport systems, more and more people are preferring to move away from the busy areas of Downtown Dubai or Dubai Marina to the peace and quiet of the city’s outskirts, as well as to enjoy a good amount of privacy.
Developers have also capitalised on road expansions, whereby we can journey from our homes to our workplace within a relatively short time. This has changed the landscape of the real estate rental and buying markets. Brokers now find themselves journeying around the outskirts of Dubai showcasing a variety of options available to the discerning lessee or homeowner.
With areas like Jumeirah Village Triangle and Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) enjoying completed roads, malls and schools, alongside walkways and parks, these properties further afield are now becoming popular and preferable. New developments such as Dubai South and even Nshama’s Town Square that lie further along the fringes of Dubai is testament to the government’s desire to create the perfect living environment for its workforce, as well as show a commitment to commuters.
Consider this comparison: the cheapest two-bedroom apartment in Downtown will cost Dh105,000 annually to rent or Dh1.5 million to buy, offering 1,450 sq ft. In JVC the cheapest two-bedroom apartment will cost Dh70,000 to rent and Dh735,000 to buy, offering 1,100 sq ft. Although smaller in size, units in JVC come with community services and a great lifestyle. Combine this with amenity and lower utility bills based on size, these fringe communities are proving very popular.
Also, for most of us, schools play a big role in deciding where we live. With nine new schools in the Al Basha area, families living in communities such as Mudon, Sustainable City, Town Square and Ranches now have better choices as a result of the extensive road networks that was not available to them a few years back.
The market now gives a new tenant multiple options and as a result tenants are now in a better position to negotiate with the landlords on the price and number of cheques. New incentives and deals have also opened the market for occupants and homeowners alike.
