Dubai Marina: The Ultimate Guide to Dubai’s Urban Riviera
For the previously unacquainted, Dubai Marina is undoubtedly the epitome of modern living, where uptown urban life meets liberated Riviera living. Dubai Marina is also a largely sought-after tourist destination. That being said, because of its mass appeal to different segments of the Dubai community, there are five things to know before choosing to live any similar serene yet sophisticated locale.
Infrastructure
Although the tranquility of the man-made waterfront emanates a quiet and pacific-like atmosphere, Dubai Marina boasts a collective of 16,720 residents, being a highly connected and tech-forward town. It features a myriad of freehold properties, including high-rise apartments with breathtaking views (977 sq ft. to 2,183 sq ft.), urban penthouses that are sure to impress (approximately 6,358 sq ft.), as well as a modern collection of apartment-villas, situated in the podium level of skyrise buildings. These properties are newly developed, with state-of-the-art maintenance and quality, ensured by the presence of prominent developers like Emaar. Indeed, a residence at Dubai Marina supports both options: rent to live as well as buy to stay.
Quality of Life
When considering the quality of life, the high standard of living is matched by an equally high cost of living, which should be considered when pursuing a home in Dubai Marina, as it is relatively expensive in terms of rent, food and amenities, as compared to other locales. There are mid-range options for studio apartments and one-bedroom choices, nonetheless.
Leisure Attractions
Besides its residential areas, Dubai Marina hosts a smorgasbord of leisure activities, entertainment and shops galore! Home to the Dubai Marina Yacht Club, residents enjoy smooth sailing boat rides across the canal (when they aren’t partaking in adventurous summertime watersports instead), as well as the comfort of a waterside Promenade that stretches for nearly 8 km across the vicinity. Dubai Marina also features the world’s longest urban zipline, operating at speeds as high as 80 km per hour. Additionally, Dubai Marina Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in the region, with an overwhelming choice of retail stores and restaurants, including al fresco dining options.
Healthcare and Education
On the other hand, it is worth mentioning that large families may prioritize different kinds of amenities for everyday living. Though there are multiple nurseries nearby, the selection of primary and secondary schools is scarce, with most family residents having to travel outside the Marina during peak morning hours to get their children to school. However, besides education, access to healthcare and pharmacies are abundant in the area, located at convenient junctures within the Marina.
Transportation and Accessibility
Dubai’s aquamarine riviera also showcases unparalleled options for commuting in and out of the locale, with an easy proximity to Sheikh Zayed Road, which is close to commercial districts like Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Dubai Internet City (DIC), Dubai Media City, as well as Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT). One can also avail the Dubai Metro, which provides access to and from Dubai Marina at two stations (DAMAC station, DMCC station), as well as Dubai Tram, which stops throughout the JBR and Al Sufouh areas. All these options combined help establish Dubai Marina as a place that can be navigated on foot, with a bike-friendly atmosphere that promotes sustainability and alternative modes of transport. Nevertheless, Dubai Marina still proves to be further away from local hotspots like Downtown Dubai, Bur Dubai and Deira. Additionally, traffic congestion on interlinking highways during peak hours is usually heavy, with limited parking availability within the Marina.
Variety of Options
In terms of property ownership, Dubai Marina has a variety of freehold properties, suitable for investors and expatriates alike. In addition, there are plenty of rental options for tenants who would prefer to try out the community and gauge a feel of what riviera-style living is like. It is always advisable to conduct adequate research amongst the many choices available in this community, to ensure finding an adequately sized apartment.
Pet-Friendly Community
Furthermore, Dubai Marina is well-known pet-friendly community, making it an ideal destination for pet lovers and their furry friends.
