Bur Dubai

• Historic district on the western bank of Dubai Creek
• Home to cultural attractions including Al Fahidi, Dubai Museum and Meena Bazaar
• Offers a wide choice of apartments and some villas at relatively affordable rents
• Well-connected by metro stations, buses, abra rides and major roads
• Packed with supermarkets, schools, clinics, malls and restaurants for everyday convenience

Bur Dubai is one of the oldest and most vibrant districts in Dubai, located on the western side of Dubai Creek. Known for its rich cultural heritage, it is home to landmarks such as the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, the Dubai Museum and the Grand Mosque. The area combines history with modern conveniences, offering residents a mix of affordable apartments, family homes, bustling souks and shopping malls. Its central location, diverse amenities and strong transport links make Bur Dubai a popular residential address.

Bur Dubai is a bustling district that blends tradition with modern living. Its sub-communities include Al Mankhool, Al Karama, Oud Metha, Al Raffa, Al Jaddaf and Al Hamriya, each offering its own character. The area is known for its cultural landmarks, restored wind-tower houses, vibrant souks and creekside promenades, while also providing modern apartment blocks and essential facilities. Its lively commercial hubs, shopping centres and dining options appeal to those seeking an active urban lifestyle close to the heart of Dubai.

Bur Dubai offers a wide selection of residential options, with apartments being the most common. These range from studios and 1-bedroom units to larger 3 and 4-bedroom apartments, often found in mid- to high-rise buildings. Many older blocks feature spacious layouts at more affordable rents, while newer developments provide modern fittings and amenities such as gyms, pools and covered parking.

There are also pockets of villas, particularly in areas like Oud Metha and Al Raffa, where families can find 3 to 5-bedroom homes with private gardens. The mix of older and newer properties caters to different budgets, making Bur Dubai attractive to both singles and families.

Get a real-time property valuation report with the TruEstimate tool on Bayut.

Those interested in layouts can explore detailed options for studios, apartments and villas on the Bur Dubai floor plans page on Bayut.

Bur Dubai is home to a wide range of hotels, from affordable stays to luxury properties, making it a popular choice for both tourists and business travellers. Well-known hotels in Bur Dubai include:

• Grand Hyatt Dubai – a five-star resort with landscaped gardens, multiple dining venues and extensive leisure facilities
• Raffles Dubai – designed in the style of a pyramid, offering luxury suites, fine dining and a renowned spa
• Hyatt Regency Creek Heights – located near Dubai Healthcare City, with spacious rooms and easy access to the Creek
• Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel – a popular four-star hotel with a rooftop pool and views of the city skyline
• Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa – situated near the Dubai Museum, offering traditional décor and a cultural setting

The choice of hotels reflects Bur Dubai’s diverse character, catering to visitors seeking cultural experiences, business convenience or family-friendly stays.

Bur Dubai is one of the most accessible areas in the city, connected by public transport and major roads. The district is served by Dubai Metro stations including Burjuman, Al Fahidi, Al Ghubaiba, Oud Metha and ADCB. These are located on the Red and Green Lines, providing direct links to Downtown, Deira, Dubai Marina and Dubai International Airport.

A wide network of RTA buses operates throughout the neighbourhood, while abra stations along Dubai Creek connect Bur Dubai with Deira in minutes.

For drivers, Bur Dubai offers direct access to Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), Al Khail Road (E44) and Oud Metha Road (D79), making it easy to reach other parts of Dubai and beyond. Within the community, parking availability depends on the type of property. Most modern apartment buildings and villas include dedicated covered parking, while older low-rise blocks may only have street parking, which can be limited during peak hours. Paid public parking zones are also available across the district.

Bur Dubai is a well-established community with everything residents need for daily life within easy reach.

Carrefour, Choithrams, Lulu Hypermarket and Spinneys all have branches in the area, alongside many smaller groceries and convenience stores.

The Grand Mosque in Bur Dubai one of Dubai’s largest in the city. There are several other smaller mosques in the area for Muslim residents.

Hindu temples dedicated to Shiva and Krishna are located in Al Fahidi, while several churches including St. Thomas Orthodox Cathedral and St. Mary’s Catholic Church are close by.

Families can choose from options such as: 

• Indian High School
• GEMS Winchester School
• Dubai Gem Private School
• St. Mary’s Catholic High School

Indian High School, based in Oud Metha, offers the National Curriculum of India. Whereas those looking for UK curriculum schools can consider GEMS Winchester School, St. Mary’s Catholic High School and Dubai Gem Private School.

For younger children, nurseries in Bur Dubai such as British Orchard Nursery, Chubby Cheeks Nursery and Hope Montessori Nursery are popular choices.

Medical assistance and healthcare services are easily accessible with reputed hospitals in Bur Dubai. The area is home to Mediclinic, Aster Clinic, Medeor Hospital and Iranian Hospital, along with specialist centres in nearby Dubai Healthcare City. Pharmacies are also widely available.

BurJuman Mall is the main retail option offering a wide mix of fashion brands, electronics, dining outlets and a cinema. Besides shopping, there are many activities in Burjuman Mall that attract families.

For a more traditional shopping experience, Meena Bazaar and the Textile Souk remain popular, while Al Seef waterfront features boutique stores in a heritage-style setting.

Dining in Bur Dubai reflects the area’s cultural diversity. From street food stalls and affordable eateries in Al Karama to fine dining at five-star hotels, residents and visitors have endless options. Indian, Middle Eastern, Filipino and international cuisines are all well represented, alongside family cafés and global chains.

There are many things to do in Bur Dubai that complement its historical charm and vibe:

• Bur Dubai is home to cultural landmarks such as the Dubai Frame, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and Dubai Museum.
• Al Nasr Leisureland remains a popular favourite among kids and adults alike for sports and entertainment.
• For golfers, the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club is a prominent attraction located on Port Saeed.

Green spaces are limited compared to newer communities, but residents enjoy activities at Zabeel Park, which offers jogging tracks, picnic areas and events throughout the year. It also hosts the seasonal events at Dubai Garden Glow. 

Smaller neighbourhood parks in Al Karama and Al Mankhool feature play areas for children and shaded spots for relaxation.

Bur Dubai has a wide choice of gyms, fitness clubs and wellness centres. Popular options include Fitness First at BurJuman and several independent gyms across Al Karama and Oud Metha. Beauty salons in Bur Dubai, spas and barber shops are also spread across the district.

Living in Bur Dubai may come with a few challenges. Traffic and parking can be difficult, especially in older parts of the district, and some areas are crowded with tourists and commercial activity. However, its affordable housing, cultural landmarks and central location make moving to Bur Dubai a strong choice for many.

• Centrally located at a 12-minute distance from commercial districts like DIFC
• 11-minute short drive from Downtown Dubai
• Dubai International Airport is 12 minutes away
• 9-minute drive from Dubai World Trade Centre

IS BUR DUBAI A GOOD LOCATION?

Bur Dubai is a well-connected community. It is surrounded by some of Dubai’s most prominent districts. To the west, Al Satwa and Jumeirah are popular choices for family living, offering villas, apartments and easy access to the beach. Across Dubai Creek lies Deira and to the northeast, DIFC serves as the city’s main financial hub. This mix of nearby residential, commercial and mixed-use districts adds to the convenience of living in Bur Dubai.

ARE THERE NIGHTLIFE OPTIONS IN BUR DUBAI?

Yes, Bur Dubai has a lively nightlife scene, mostly centred around its hotels. Popular venues include rooftop lounges, sports bars and pubs offering live music and themed nights.

IS BUR DUBAI A GOOD PLACE TO LIVE?

Yes, Bur Dubai is one of the most popular areas for families and professionals looking for affordable housing in central Dubai. With excellent connectivity, historic attractions and a wide range of amenities, living in Bur Dubai combines convenience with cultural charm.

HOW TO GET AROUND BUR DUBAI?

The community is well-served by metros and buses. Besides the various metro links on the Red and Green Line, Bur Dubai is in proximity to Creek Metro Station on the recently launched Blue Line.

HOW FAR IS BUR DUBAI FROM DOWNTOWN DUBAI?

Bur Dubai is about 6 to 8 kilometres from Downtown Dubai. The drive usually takes 10 to 15 minutes via Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) or Al Khail Road (E44), depending on traffic. Metro users can travel from Burjuman Station to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station in around 12 minutes on the Red Line.