Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (2025)

  • Area Overview
  • Property Types
  • Amenities
  • Attractions
  • Property Prices
  • FAQs

Dubai welcomes people from around the world, and each expat group has different preferences regarding their ideal home. While some prefer areas with high-end accommodation and an extensive portfolio of luxury villas and apartments, others look for more affordable neighbourhoods with strong connections to the region’s rich cultural past. Today, let’s compare life in old Dubai vs new Dubai based on the type of areas, properties, amenities, etc.

OLD DUBAI VS NEW DUBAI – WHAT SETS THEM APART

While you can discover interesting facts about Dubai’s history in old Dubai, new Dubai offers insight into the city’s impressive progress. Let’s look at how living in new Dubai compares to old Dubai.

Old Dubai Area Vs New

Perhaps the biggest difference between old and new Dubai is the type of area or neighbourhood.

DISCOVER THE EMIRATE’S RICH HERITAGE IN OLD DUBAI

Old Dubai typically includes historic residential and commercial hubs like Bur Dubai, Deira, Al Nahda, Al Karama and Al Garhoud that have evolved over time yet retained their old charm.

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (1)

The low-rise buildings with small cafes, grocery stores and other retail shops on the ground level have simplistic vibes. In particular, districts like Deira and Karama have people flocking to karak chai cafes even during late-night hours.

Overall, life in old Dubai is bustling but lacks glamour. You will find traditional buildings and villas besides decades-old souks and restaurants. Older city districts are also home to some of the most authentic Indian and Pakistani restaurants in Dubai.

EXPERIENCE THE HIGH LIFE IN NEW DUBAI

On the other hand, sleek high-rises in Dubai Marina and Downtown Dubai and the large variety of modern villas/townhouses in Dubai Hills Estate and Arabian Ranches epitomise the glitz and glamour of new Dubai. These newer neighbourhoods have some of the city’s best hotels, nightclubs, entertainment venues, shopping destinations and beautiful promenades, further adding to their appeal.

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (2)

Dubai Marina has over 200 residential skyscrapers and Downtown Dubai is home to the tallest building in the world – Burj Khalifa. Emaar’s first villa community in the city, Arabian Ranches, has thousands of villas and townhouses distributed across the different sub-communities, surrounded by open green spaces, paved walkways and manicured gardens.

What makes life in new Dubai more convenient is the presence of communal amenities. Most newer neighbourhoods have everything you would want in an ideal address. Gated communities have lush green parks, community pools, clubhouses, gyms, restaurants and even supermarkets. Similarly, districts dominated by apartment buildings like Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, DIFC and Business Bay have no shortage of basic amenities, including grocery stores, eateries, cafes and public transport links.

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (3)

PROPERTY TYPESNEW DUBAI VS OLD DUBAI

Both new and old districts have a wide range of property options for residents to choose from. But properties in new Dubai are modern and feature shared common amenities such as pools and gyms.

The most common residential properties in Dubai – villas and apartments – are available for rent and sale in both city areas. Still, the newer districts are preferred by tenants and buyers looking for a bigger inventory of luxury lofts, duplexes, penthouses and apartments for rent in Dubai.

Apartments for Rent in Dubai

View all

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (4)

AED 850,000 Yearly

  • 3 BEDS
  • |
  • 4 BATHS
  • |
  • 5086 SQFT

Palazzo Versace, Culture Village (Jaddaf Waterfront), Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (5)

AED 55,000 Yearly

  • STUDIO
  • |
  • 1 BATH
  • |
  • 432 SQFT

SH Living 1, JVC District 14, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (6)

AED 43,000 Yearly

  • STUDIO
  • |
  • 1 BATH
  • |
  • 254 SQFT

Al Shafar Palladium, Al Jaddaf, Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (7)

AED 75,999 Yearly

  • 1 BED
  • |
  • 2 BATHS
  • |
  • 779 SQFT

Elegance House, Barsha Heights (Tecom), Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (8)

AED 300,000 Yearly

  • 2 BEDS
  • |
  • 3 BATHS
  • |
  • 2020 SQFT

Palazzo Versace, Culture Village (Jaddaf Waterfront), Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (10)

AED 100,000 Yearly

  • 2 BEDS
  • |
  • 3 BATHS
  • |
  • 1191 SQFT

AAA Residence, JVC District 13, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (11)

AED 98,000 Yearly

  • 2 BEDS
  • |
  • 3 BATHS
  • |
  • 1206 SQFT

AAA Residence, JVC District 13, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (12)

AED 100,000 Yearly

  • 2 BEDS
  • |
  • 3 BATHS
  • |
  • 1302 SQFT

Geepas Tower, Arjan, Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (13)

AED 100,000 Yearly

  • 2 BEDS
  • |
  • 3 BATHS
  • |
  • 1127 SQFT

DAMAC Ghalia, JVC District 18, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Dubai, UAE

AMENITIES

While both areas have abundant facilities, the newer areas are more suited to the people of determination. Most apartment complexes and gated villa/townhouse communities in new Dubai have dedicated barbecue areas, daycare centres and fitness facilities like saunas, jacuzzis, swimming pools and sports courts. Some complexes even have parking plazas and multiple podium/basement levels dedicated to parking.

Apartment buildings in older areas usually only have basic facilities like elevators and parking spaces.Often residents have to settle for street parking.

Regarding other amenities, both sides of the emirate offer access to supermarkets, schools, healthcare centres, restaurants and shopping malls. The schools and hospitals in old Dubai are, however, predictably older. More recently launched developments have state-of-the-art fitness centres, healthcare facilities and massive hypermarkets.

ATTRACTIONS – OLD VS NEW DUBAI

Talking about attractions, there is no shortage of tourist hotspots in both older and newer parts of the town.

Old Dubai has historical spots such as Deira Clocktower, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and the ever-popular Dubai Creek.

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (14)

Newer areas, however, feature concept restaurants and unique coffee places in Dubai besides many of Dubai’s most famous tourist spots. Those worth mentioning include Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain, Dubai Mall, The Pointe Palm Jumeirah, The Palm Fountain, The View at The Palm and the most beautiful building in the world – the Museum of the Future.

PROPERTY PRICESNEW DUBAI VS OLD DUBAI

Here is a complete breakdown of prices based on the top areas in the older and newer parts of Dubai.

APARTMENTS AND VILLAS IN OLD DUBAI

On average, apartments for rent in Al Garhoud are available for AED 64k. Villas in Al Garhoud are available for AED 198k, on average. You can rent a 3-bed villa in Al Garhoud for AED 140k. A larger 4-bed house for rent would cost you AED 200k.

For those keen on renting in Al Karama, quite a few options are available, from cosy studios to large 3-bedroom apartments. Those interested in rental apartments in Al Karama can expect to pay AED 64k, on average.

Another area in old Dubai that’s popular among tenants is Al Nahda. On average, flats for rent in Al Nahda Dubai are available for AED 45k.

Other preferred areas to rent apartments and villas in old Dubai include Bur Dubai and Deira. While tenants renting apartments in Bur Dubai pay an average of AED 72k, a small inventory of villas in the community is available for an average of AED 377k.

Deira apartments for rent cost AED 56k, on average.

Here’s a breakdown of the average rents for apartments in old Dubai based on bed types.

Area

Studio

1-Bed

2-Bed

3-Bed

Area

Bur Dubai

Studio

AED 36,000

1-Bed

AED 56,000

2-Bed

AED 75,000

3-Bed

AED 98,000

Area

Al Nahda (Dubai)

Studio

AED 27,000

1-Bed

AED 36,000

2-Bed

AED 49,000

3-Bed

AED 68,000

Area

Deira

Studio

AED 29,000

1-Bed

AED 45,000

2-Bed

AED 65,000

3-Bed

AED 89,000

Area

Al Karama

Studio

AED 38,000

1-Bed

AED 52,000

2-Bed

AED 66,000

3-Bed

AED 90,000

Area

Al Garhoud

Studio

AED 46,000

1-Bed

AED 52,000

2-Bed

AED 73,000

3-Bed

AED 102,000

APARTMENTS AND VILLAS IN NEW DUBAI

Property prices in new Dubai are considerably higher compared to older city districts. New neighbourhoods like Dubai Hills Estate, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) and Dubai Sports City offer various residential units, including apartments, villas and townhouses.

Some areas in new Dubai specialise in one property type, like apartments or villas/townhouses. Popular areas for renting apartments and villas in new Dubai include JVC, Dubai Hills Estate and Palm Jumeirah.

Dubai Marina, Business Bay and Downtown Dubai have podium villas, but they are more well-known for their apartments, duplexes and penthouses. Here’s what you can expect to pay for renting apartments in popular new Dubai areas. You can choose from compact studios to larger 3-bedroom apartments.

Area

Studio

1-Bed

2-Bed

3-Bed

Area

Dubai Marina

Studio

AED 68,000

1-Bed

AED 103,000

2-Bed

AED 151,000

3-Bed

AED 232,000

Area

Business Bay

Studio

AED 65,000

1-Bed

AED 85,000

2-Bed

AED 132,000

3-Bed

AED 183,000

Area

Downtown Dubai

Studio

AED 93,000

1-Bed

AED 128,000

2-Bed

AED 240,000

3-Bed

AED 388,000

Area

Dubai Hills Estate

Studio

AED 55,000

1-Bed

AED 86,000

2-Bed

AED 154,000

3-Bed

AED 231,000

Area

DIFC

Studio

N/A

1-Bed

AED 113,000

2-Bed

AED 163,000

3-Bed

AED 220,000

  • Apartments for rent in Downtown Dubai average at AED 230k.
  • On average, tenants can find flats for rent in Dubai Marina for AED 143k.

As stated earlier, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) offers affordable apartments, villas and townhouses. Arabian Ranches by Emaar, Dubai Hills Estate and Jumeirah Golf Estates are popularly known for picturesque villas for rent in Dubai in 3-bed to 7-bed+ configurations.

Villas for Rent in Dubai

View all

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (17)

AED 200,000 Yearly

  • 3 BEDS
  • |
  • 3 BATHS
  • |
  • 2015 SQFT

Arabella 1, Arabella Townhouses, Mudon, Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (18)

AED 299,000 Yearly

  • 4 BEDS
  • |
  • 5 BATHS
  • |
  • 5939 SQFT

Murooj Al Furjan, Al Furjan, Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (19)

AED 480,000 Yearly

  • 4 BEDS
  • |
  • 3 BATHS
  • |
  • 4333 SQFT

Regional, Jumeirah Park, Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (20)

AED 500,000 Yearly

  • 5 BEDS
  • |
  • 6 BATHS
  • |
  • 6590 SQFT

Murooj Al Furjan, Al Furjan, Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (21)

AED 160,000 Yearly

  • 3 BEDS
  • |
  • 4 BATHS
  • |
  • 2519 SQFT

Mira Oasis 3, Mira Oasis, Reem, Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (22)

AED 298,000 Yearly

  • 3 BEDS
  • |
  • 3 BATHS
  • |
  • 3885 SQFT

The Springs 15, The Springs, Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (23)

AED 380,000 Yearly

  • 4 BEDS
  • |
  • 4 BATHS
  • |
  • 3445 SQFT

The Meadows 9, The Meadows, Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (24)

AED 250,000 Yearly

  • 3 BEDS
  • |
  • 5 BATHS
  • |
  • 2578 SQFT

Casa Flores, Green Community (Motor City), Motor City, Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (25)

AED 379,999 Yearly

  • 4 BEDS
  • |
  • 6 BATHS
  • |
  • 3409 SQFT

Aura, Tilal Al Ghaf, Dubai, UAE

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (26)

AED 2,000,000 Yearly

  • 7 BEDS
  • |
  • 9 BATHS
  • |
  • 21177 SQFT

Wildflower, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai, UAE

Arabian Ranches houses for rent are available for AED 216k to AED 427k per annum, based on the bed type. Here are the average rents for villas in some popular new Dubai communities.

Area

3-Bed

4-Bed

5-Bed

Area

Dubai Hills Estate

3-Bed

AED 328,000

4-Bed

AED 370,000

5-Bed

AED 435,000

Area

Palm Jumeirah

3-Bed

AED 535,000

4-Bed

AED 1,034,000

5-Bed

AED 1,221,000

Area

Jumeirah Golf Estates

3-Bed

N/A

4-Bed

AED 479,000

5-Bed

AED 713,000

Area

Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)

3-Bed

AED 142,000

4-Bed

AED 168,000

5-Bed

AED 184,000

Area

Arabian Ranches

3-Bed

AED 216,000

4-Bed

AED 319,000

5-Bed

AED 427,000

As you can see, the prices for properties in new Dubai generally tend to be higher. But this is understandable, considering the construction quality, apartment features and modern facilities.

One reason Dubai’s real estate sector appeals to people from all walks of life is the availability of luxury properties. If you are looking for the highest standards of apartment living, Dubai’s property portfolio won’t disappoint you. Here’s what you can expect to pay for renting luxury flats in Dubai’s most expensive areas for apartment living.

Area

Studio

1-Bed

2-Bed

3-Bed

Area

Al Wasl

Studio

AED 45,000

1-Bed

AED 176,000

2-Bed

AED 248,000

3-Bed

AED 311,000

Area

Palm Jumeirah

Studio

AED 111,000

1-Bed

AED 165,000

2-Bed

AED 243,000

3-Bed

AED 312,000

Area

Al Barari

Studio

N/A

1-Bed

AED 134,000

2-Bed

AED 316,000

3-Bed

AED 548,000

Area

Dubai Harbour

Studio

N/A

1-Bed

AED 163,000

2-Bed

AED 269,000

3-Bed

AED 475,000

Area

Bluewaters Island

Studio

N/A

1-Bed

AED 310,000

2-Bed

AED 495,000

3-Bed

AED 716,000

If your idea of luxury living involves villas, check out these villa communities in Dubai with private pools!

Frequently Asked Questions About Old vs New Dubai

Where can I see Dubai’s past, present and future?

Not many cities present a striking contrast between old and new the way Dubai does. Did you know you can view both sides, i.e. old and new Dubai, by visiting one of the most popular landmarks in the city?

That’s right. TheDubai Frame is where you can soak in panoramic views of the bustling streets of old Dubai and the skyscrapers of new Dubai!

Old Dubai vs New Dubai: Areas, Properties, Amenities & More - MyBayut (27)

What are the best things to do in Old Dubai?

Old Dubai, as stated earlier, is filled with heritage and history. Here’s how you can spend time in historical areas of the city:

  • Visit museums, boutique cafes and art galleries in Al Fahidi Neighbourhood. Dubai Museumis one of the best Dubai attractions for history buffs.
  • Enjoy karak chai with friends and family in Deira and Karama.
  • Ride traditional Abras and dhow cruises across Dubai Creek.
  • Explore traditional perfumes, spices, textiles and gold souks.
  • Visit the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding in Al Fahidi.
  • Visit mosques, churches and temples in Bur Dubai.
  • Enjoy traditional Pakistani and Indian cuisine for a pocket-friendly price.
  • Travel across the stars at AYA, a futuristic light and sound park at WAFI Mall.

Which activities do I need to try in New Dubai?

Newer communities in Dubai have much to offer people of all tastes. Whether you prefer scenic views, retail therapy, wildlife adventures or an adrenaline rush, there is an activity for you! Here’s a round-up of the most popular activities in new Dubai:

  • Say hello to the future at the Museum of the Future.
  • Click a picture with your favourite celeb at Madame Tussauds.
  • Enjoy theatrical masterpieces at the Dubai Opera and La Perle.
  • See art come to life at Infinity Des Lumierès, an art gallery inside Dubai Mall.
  • Soak some sunshine at JBR Beach.
  • Book tickets to At The Top – the world’s highest observation deck inside Burj Khalifa.
  • Check out thrilling water rides atAquaventure Waterpark, Palm Jumeirah.
  • Experience how F1 racing feels like at the Dubai Autodrome, Motor City.
  • Dine at waterfront restaurants and cafes at the gorgeous promenade – Dubai Marina Walk.
  • Watch theDubai Fountain dance to popular Arabic, English and Bollywood songs.
  • Spend a day at Dubai Mall! This shopping and entertainment destination has over 1,300 retail outlets, 200 F&B outlets and numerous exciting entertainment venues like Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo,Reel Cinemas, VR Park and the Dubai Ice Rink.
  • Take on the fun and games atTopgolf, one of the popular spots to playmini-golf in Dubai.
  • Explore indoor skiing Dubai – a one-of-a-kind indoor ski and snow park in the Mall of the Emirates.
  • Try XLine in Dubai Marina.
  • Experience Dubai like never before atSky Views by Emaar.
  • Become part of the ultimate underwater adventure atDeep Dive Dubai.
  • Ride the world’s fastest ‘vertical launch’ roller coaster at the Dubai Hills Mall – The Storm Coaster.
  • See the legacy of Expo 2020 – The World’s Greatest Show – live at theExpo City Dubai.

Where can I buy property in Dubai?

Most freehold areas in Dubai are also located in new Dubai for investors and homeowners keen on buying properties in the city. Districts like Dubai Marina, Business Bay and Downtown Dubai have many exciting off-plan projects lined up.

If you want to invest in off-plan villa/townhouse communities, check out DAMAC Hills 2 and Dubai Harbour.

Can I find affordable property in New Dubai?

While average rents and sales prices are higher in newer parts of the emirate, it is still possible to find affordable accommodation. You can check out Discovery Gardens and International City for cheap apartment rentals. Similarly, here’s a guide to the most affordable villa communities in Dubai.

Which areas are popular for renting in Old Dubai?

Those who prefer areas epitomising the culture and heritage of the UAE can explore popular areas in old Dubai for rent. Your choices include Deira, Al Karama, Al Satwa, Bur Dubai and Al Nahda.

Is it easy to travel around Old and New Dubai?

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA Dubai) continuously improves the public transport network in the city. Whether you live in older districts or the newest neighbourhoods, you will surely find a transport mode within easy access.

Dubai Metro’s Red Line serves the relatively newer districts like DIP, Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai and Business Bay. The Green Line, on the other hand, serves older city areas. RTA Buses cover almost 80% of the emirate; newer routes are introduced periodically. Residents and tourists can easily hail a taxi to travel to their destination. You can also use marine transport and water taxis in Dubai to cruise around Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR).

And that ends our comparison between old vs new Dubai. Both sides of Dubai offer comfortable and peaceful living experiences for residents. It’s up to you to pick a community you deem most fitting for your preferences and needs.

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