Dubai is one of the best places to live in the world. But where are the best communities to live in Dubai, including the gated communities you may also look for?

When it comes to living in Dubai, there are hundreds, if not thousands, of options. From the world-famous man-made island that is Palm Jumeirah, the aptly called 'Centre of now', which is Downtown Dubai, to the high-end luxury residential Dubai Hills, Dubai is full of options to choose from.

What makes a community ideal for you? Is it a vibrant area with an active social scene? Do you prefer gated communities in Dubai over other options? How about a tranquil suburban setting? A dreamy home overlooking the yachts moored in the marina? Or would you like an island home with direct beach access?

In Dubai, there is no shortage of options. If you're considering a move, read on to see our top 10 list of the best communities in Dubai in 2024. 

Palm Jumeirah

An artificial archipelago and the world's largest man-made island, Palm Jumeirah, or the Palm for short, is arguably one of the most prestigious addresses not only in Dubai but in the world. With luxury villas, townhouses and apartments from the trunk and spine to the fronds and all the way to the crescent, residences here are very luxurious, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and the iconic Dubai skyline. As one of Dubai's most popular and luxury residential communities, as you can imagine, homes here come with a premium price tag. 

Dubai Marina

The stunning waterfront community of Dubai Marina is one of the most prestigious places to live in the city. It features a great selection of high-rise properties complete with modern amenities and sweeping views. From its prime location, you can easily reach all of the city's main districts thanks to the great road links, tram, and metro. This waterfront community offers great lifestyle facilities, including retail options like the Marina Mall, restaurants, and bars, making it a top choice for anyone who enjoys a busy, urban lifestyle. 

Business Bay

Business Bay is a residential, commercial, and business hub located close to Downtown Dubai. The neighbourhood is a bustling urban jungle filled with towering skyscrapers and all the amenities you could ask for right on your doorstep. It is home to a diverse collection of residential properties with access to a long list of activities, destinations, and experiences, promising a one-of-a-kind lifestyle fitting for urban lovers.

Emirates Living

A freehold group of villas in a gated community, Emirates Living consists of five well-planned residential gated communities - Emirates Hills, The Meadows, The Springs, The Lakes, and The Greens and The Views. In this scenic neighbourhood, you can find villas, townhouses, and apartments. Apart from the tree-lined streets and lush greenery, you'll find parks, supermarkets, schools, hospitals, fitness facilities, and much more. You'll find just about anything you need, making it a popular residential neighbourhood, particularly with families. 

Arabian Ranches

Arabian Ranches is one of Dubai's most famous and popular places to buy or rent a villa in a gated community. There's just something about the laid-back, everyone-knows-everyone vibe in The Ranches that is hard for residents to resist. Here, you'll find upscale villas and townhouses with Arabian and Spanish themes, as well as superb community amenities. As well as shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities, Arabian Ranches is home to the Arabian Ranches Golf Club and the Dubai Polo Club and Equestrian Club.

Downtown Dubai

There's no denying that Downtown Dubai is one of Dubai's best neighbourhoods for entertainment, shopping, and dining. Downtown Dubai has it all: commercial, residential, hotels, entertainment, shopping (including one of the world's largest shopping malls), and world-class leisure amenities. With an array of luxury residences, from apartments to villas, many with breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa and the world's most iconic skyline, this is one of the most in-demand places to live.

Dubai Creek Harbour

Dubai Creek Harbour, one of the most recent waterfront developments, is currently one of the most in-demand areas in Dubai. The vibrant community features residential, retail, commercial, and entertainment venues, in addition to green spaces, a marina, and a golf and yacht club, making it an ideal place to live, work, and play. Overlooking the creek and the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Creek Harbour offers several living options to fit nearly any lifestyle, perfect for individuals, couples and families.

Dubai Hills Estate

In Dubai Hills Estate, you'll find an array of luxurious apartments, villas, and townhouses. There's a reason it's one of Dubai's most popular communities. With views of the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, and Dubai Marina, this exclusive area is right in the middle of it all. Aside from rolling green spaces and fairways, Dubai Hills has its own mall and an 18-hole championship golf course! A family-friendly community, it extends over almost 11 million square feet and offers a host of facilities and amenities.

Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT)

Jumeirah Lake Towers, more commonly known as JLT, is designed to offer residents a luxurious lifestyle with all the modern amenities as well as a host of recreational activities for residents to enjoy. Just inland from Dubai Marina, JLT features a range of high-rise towers that bring together a variety of living styles, from luxury penthouses to traditional apartments. It offers attractive residential and office towers with hotels, leisure attractions, and retail outlets. It is centred around a lake and spread over an area of 200 hectares, which is just over half a square mile. Excellent road links, the tram, and metro are close by, offering residents easy access to the rest of the city.