Dubai is known for its stunning landscapes and highly developed infrastructure. For many, it is synonymous with luxury. Families with children choose Dubai for its safety, high standard of living, and favorable climate.
Elite neighborhoods offer residents numerous benefits. Properties are located close to major attractions, with access to private beaches and waterparks. The infrastructure in these areas is highly developed, offering a wide range of activities for both adults and children. Let’s explore where to live in Dubai with a family and what to consider when choosing the right property.
Best Areas for Luxury Family Real Estate
Luxury family properties in Dubai can be found in several popular districts:
Emirates Hills
This district is known for its luxurious and elegant villas. It was originally developed as a high-end resort. A major highlight of Emirates Hills is the Montgomerie Championship Golf Course, one of its main attractions. Family apartments in Dubai with golf course views are among the most expensive in the area. Residents also have access to other sports facilities, including basketball and volleyball courts, yoga and fitness zones, swimming pools, and cycling tracks. The area is surrounded by lakes and parks with unique landscaping.
The social infrastructure for families in Emirates Hills is very well developed, with private nurseries and schools such as Raffles Nursery and Dubai British School, offering British and international curriculums. It’s a 20-minute drive to the city center and about 30 minutes to the airport.
Arabian Ranches
This popular gated community is ideal for families with children. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and well-developed infrastructure, it features luxurious villas with pools and private gardens, as well as stylish townhouses. There are no apartment buildings in the area. International schools are available for children's education.
The district includes shopping complexes, modern medical clinics, supermarkets, and restaurants. Sports facilities include tennis and basketball courts, an equestrian club, a golf course, swimming pools, and parks with bike paths.
Palm Jumeirah
The famous artificial island is home to premium-class properties. It offers not only world-renowned hotel chains and private residences, but also luxury real estate for families in Dubai. A key advantage is that many homes have direct beach access. Villas are located along the “fronds” and “trunk” of the palm-shaped island.
This area is ideal for families who value privacy and seclusion but still want the comforts of city life. Residents have access to restaurants, shopping centers, and a wide range of family entertainment.
Dubai Hills Estate
One of Dubai’s prestigious districts, located between Dubai Marina and Downtown Dubai. This elite community features numerous parks, artificial lakes, and a vast golf course. The area offers a range of luxury villas, modern townhouses, and stylish apartments.
It’s considered one of the greenest and most eco-friendly locations in the city. The district is home to top-tier schools and medical centers, as well as extensive recreational areas, restaurants, and shopping malls.
Jumeirah Golf Estates
A vibrant district about 30 minutes from the city center. Residents enjoy access to parks, golf clubs, and recreational areas. It’s one of the best districts in Dubai for families, thanks to the abundance of educational institutions. There are several kindergartens, including international ones with British early education programs. Both primary and secondary schools are available, offering British and American curriculums, respectively.
Elite neighborhoods are among the best choices for safe and comfortable family living in Dubai. Many UAE royals, including Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum — owner of Emirates Airlines and the Burj Khalifa — choose to reside in these areas.
What to Consider When Choosing a Family Home
When selecting the right family villa in Dubai, several factors should be considered:
- Security level – A major advantage is the presence of gated communities with 24/7 security and video surveillance, particularly for families seeking privacy.
- Proximity to schools – The best family-friendly districts are close to nurseries and schools, simplifying everyday life. Also important is the nearby availability of medical clinics and emergency services.
- Family-oriented infrastructure – The area should offer parks, green zones with bike paths, and spaces for active recreation. Top-tier family villas in Dubai are usually near golf clubs and sports courts.
- Size and layout of the property – Prestigious districts offer homes of various sizes, from spacious villas to compact apartments. It’s important that the home’s layout suits the family’s needs.
- Access to green spaces – The presence of nearby parks, landscaped gardens, and bodies of water enhances the area’s appeal. Green, well-maintained spaces are great for walking and outdoor activities. Many parks in Dubai’s elite areas feature bike trails and sports zones.
Prices for Luxury Family Real Estate in Dubai
The average cost of family housing in Dubai depends on the district, its features, and the level of infrastructure. Villas in Palm Jumeirah are among the most expensive, with the average price per square meter around $16,800. In Dubai Hills Estate, prices are lower, with apartments averaging $7,300 per square meter. Those choosing Arabian Ranches can expect to pay about $5,800 per square meter.
Several factors influence real estate pricing:
- Location – Properties in central or prestigious districts are more expensive. Proximity to the city center, the sea, developed infrastructure, transportation, and parks all affect prices. The presence of elite schools, clinics, and golf courses nearby increases property value. A good view (e.g., of a golf course in Emirates Hills) also raises the price.
- Property size – Larger villas are more expensive. Compact apartments in elite districts can suit a family of three and offer a more affordable option.
- Finishing quality – Premium-class finishes, built-in appliances, air conditioning, and smart home systems increase property value.
- Additionally, pricing is influenced by the economic and political situation, the scale of surrounding development (such as planned roads or metro stations), and the area’s technological advancement.
In recent years, real estate prices in Dubai have been steadily rising. This trend is driven by high interest from foreign investors, economic stability, and continuous infrastructure development. It is expected that in 2025, prices will continue to grow, though at a slower pace than in previous years. This also applies to prestigious residential areas. Experts predict that luxury real estate, particularly seafront apartments, will remain in high demand. Property prices in Dubai are expected to increase by 5–8% on average in 2025, with the luxury segment seeing even greater growth.
Conclusion
There are many reasons why families choose Dubai: it’s safe, economically stable, has advanced infrastructure, and offers a pleasant climate. The city provides plenty of entertainment for kids, quality education, outdoor recreation, restaurants, and shopping centers.
When choosing a home, it’s important to consider the property’s size and layout, transportation access, proximity to the city center, and the availability of schools, medical facilities, parks, and recreational areas.
