Victory Heights, Dubai Sports City
What: A gated development of villas and town houses comprising seven villages, set among lush green spaces and the world-famous Ernie Els golf course, just off Emirates Road.
Design, build, finish and views: The homes feature Mediterranean, Andalusian or European style with distinct custom finishing. They offer privacy as well as views of the golf course or the adjacent parks.
Amenities and facilities: As a bonus, all homes come with a fully equipped kitchen, an Opus Entertainment System connection and a dual carport. The development has round the clock security and has parks, children's play areas, a football pitch, barbecue areas and a club house. It has two schools — the Butch Harmon School of Golf and the Brandenton Preparatory Academy offering American curriculum. A grocery store provides basic retail facilities. However, residents could hop over to MotorCity, a five-minute drive away, for all their retail and dining needs.
Sales and leasing agent says: "The community has proven to be very popular with families — both tenants and homeowners," says Lindsey Russell, managing partner, Gulf Platinum Properties. "Most villas are occupied, while the remaining ones are in the process of being handed over. In terms of yields, investors could look at 8 per cent return on investment."
Property says: Striking a perfect balance between luxury living and a peaceful lifestyle, Victory Heights offers lots of greenery and a good community vibe. Children's recreational requirements are also well taken care of. The development is sure to appeal to those seeking a villa lifestyle, while also being an ideal escape from the skyscrapers and the busy city life. In terms of on-going work, two community pools are still under construction with one of them expected to be completed soon. With access currently only from Emirates Road, you may have to drive all the way to the Dubai Investments Park roundabout and take a U-turn. However, with the completion of two new roundabouts, Victory Heights will be easily accessible.
Facts and figures
- Sales: Four-bedroom: Dh1.6 million-Dh2.4 million; five-bedroom: Dh2.8 million-Dh4.2 million; six-bedroom: Dh7.5 million
- Rentals: Four-bedroom: Dh120,000-Dh190,000; five-bedroom: Dh220,000-Dh260,000; six-bedroom: Dh320,000
- Contact: Gulf Platinum Properties 04 453 4133
Uptown Mirdif, Dubai
What A low-rise freehold development planned around a piazza at Uptown Mirdif. Residents can choose from studios, one- and two-bedroom units or three-bedroom town houses that come with a garden and five parking spaces.
Design, build, finish and views The properties are spacious, well designed and boast high-quality finishes and views of lush gardens, the swimming pool or the central courtyard.
Amenities and facilities: Nestled within landscaped gardens and parks, the community features children's play areas, a swimming pool, gym, parking and 24-hour security. The retail arcade below with its various shops including a Spinneys caters to all your daily needs. For quick bites, there are several dining options serving Arabic, French, Indian, Chinese and Italian cuisine.
Sales and leasing agent says: "Uptown Mirdif has always been a sought-after area because of its unique location and family-friendly environment," says Yvette Coulthard, residential property consultant, Group Seven Properties. "These are the only properties that expatriates are eligible to buy in [this] area, as properties in the rest of Mirdif can only be owned by GCC nationals. The rental return from a property bought and rented at today's prices could be in the range of 5.4 to 11 per cent."
Property says: Uptown Mirdif has the right mix of facilities if you are looking for a family-friendly environment at an affordable price. It is also well connected to Emirates Road and Al Khail Road and offers easy access to Sharjah and Dubai. The development is close to the Arabian Centre mall and Mirdif City Centre. It is served by several schools and nurseries, with retail and dining at your doorstep. Above all, events such as the Friday Market and the Flea Market will keep you busy during weekends. However, being directly under aircraft flight path, noise could be an irritant. On the positive side, if you are working for an airline or the Dubai Airport Free Zone, Uptown Mirdif could be an excellent location due to its proximity to the airport.
Facts and figures
- Sales: Starting from Dh400,000 plus commission and transfer fees
- Rentals: Studios: Dh35,000-Dh45,000; one-bedroom: Dh50,000-Dh62,000; two-bedroom: Dh75,000-Dh95,000, town houses: Dh125,000-Dh145,000
- Contact: Group Seven Properties 04 366 3377
