In such a record-breaking area, it’s little surprise that rents are rapidly rising, with a choice of high-rise or low-rise living to consider. This is city living at its best, so not for those craving green space or gardens – but residents will agree that being in the centre of ‘the world’s most prestigious square kilometer’ more than makes up for that.

You won’t be on your own though, with an estimated six million people visiting Dubai Mall alone every month, so be prepared to dodge tourists when you pop out for your morning cappuccino.

Where is it located?

Downtown Dubai is located on Shaikh Zayed Road, between Business Bay and DIFC. Look for Burj Khalifa and you can’t miss it.

Rent

The average rent for a two bedroom apartment on the Dubai Government Rent Calculator is Dh170,000 to Dh190,000.

Good for

Close to Business Bay, World Trade Centre and DIFC
Just 10.5km to Dubai International Airport
The seemingly endless choice of shops, bars, and restaurants, with Dubai Mall and Souq al Bahar on your doorstep
Ease of getting around, with most things within walking distance, the Dubai Mall metro station right in the centre, and several bus routes running through the area. For our Ultimate Bus Route Guide with Timetables click here.

Bad for

Rapidly rising rents
The area is always very busy and you will be surrounded by tourists throughout the year.
Congested traffic, especially in the evenings and at the weekend. Don’t even get us started on New Year’s Eve.
Lack of green, open spaces

Transport

Metro Dubai Mall Metro Station is now linked to the mall via a 820m air-conditioned walkway. Check out Ticket Prices

Bus 27, Gold Souk Bus Station, Dubai Mall; 61, Al Gubaiba Bus Station, Ras Al Khor Ind’l Area; 045, Al Wasl Za’beel 2. Check out our detailed Bus Route Timetable

Taxi Plenty available at the taxi ranks at Dubai Mall (head to the main rank by the waterfall, as the rank downstairs by Waitrose always has a longer wait). Harder to flag down on the road, but no problem at any of the hotels. You can also call a cab on 04 2080808.

Traffic and Parking

There is free parking at Dubai Mall and Souk al Bahar (the entrance to the latter is located opposite the entrance to Palace Hotel). Traffic can get very busy, especially during evening hours and weekends. The worst congestion is on roads surrounding Dubai Mall, especially on Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard (previously Emaar Boulevard). You are not only contending with residents, but also tourists flooding into the area.

5 to try

The Pavilion

Louise Emma Clarke, Special to Guides

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Area Guide: Downtown Dubai