Samir Salya discusses most popular areas of Dubai

Consumers in Dubai are benefitting sharply from the rise in new communities. While the city centre is always popular, new housing developments further inland are gaining traction with savvy buyers looking for a better deal.

It’s part of a general move for residents to becoming smarter in the way they use their money when leasing or buying property. These newer communities offer excellent value for their money, prompting more tenants and buyers to move from historically established areas into new areas in order to save money and enjoy a better standard of living.

Key factors

The main reasons for people to move into these newer areas include the rental or buying prices, the location and the high level of community amenities.

For example, Rohal Jan, a 27-year-old Pakistani national moved to the Emirates cluster in International City after two years living in Dubai Marina. While he was previously a subtenant, he now owns his lease and found that he could become an apartment owner for the same amount as being a subtenant in the previous location.

He says: “I’ve lived in Dubai for over three years. I contemplated over a few areas such as Jumeirah Village Circle [JVC] and Dubai Sports City before choosing International City. Independent living certainly is the key value for me. However, there are numerous other added benefits, such as free public parking, cheaper comestibles, and a less-crowded neighbourhood. At the same time, there are some negatives such as the absence of a modern city life, distant urban retail and exhausting travel time at peak instances.”

New communities

Many of the new communities simply offer more affordable properties. Newer zones are giving buyers excellent value deals, prompting the influx of new residents.

These communities act almost like small cities. They are well planned, efficient and designed to provide residents with everything they need right on their doorstep. For example, community malls are springing up in new communities, giving a better quality of living for residents.

Higher cost of living

Although rents have dropped across Dubai, the cost of living has risen. This further influences where people want to live. If they can save money on their properties inland, and experience a well planned and maintained environment then there’s no real reason to stay in their old community.

Residents are also taking more time to weigh up the best option for them, leading to longer decision-making times. This prompts both owners and sellers to be more flexible and open minded on their deal making, all of which is healthy for the market as a whole.

About Samir Salya

Samir Salya is the Chairman of Reign Holdings, and is involved in UK and UAE real estate and construction. Samir holds over 20 years’ experience in executive management, business expansion, performance improvement, sales and marketing