Jumeirah

Jumeirah is where Dubai's expatriate community first put down roots, and nearly fifty years later, it remains one of the most desirable family addresses in the city. If you picture tree-lined streets, spacious villas with gardens, and that classic Dubai beach lifestyle, you're picturing Jumeirah.

The area stretches along the coast from the historic Jumeirah Mosque to Umm Suqeim, encompassing Jumeirah 1, 2, and 3. Unlike the newer master-planned communities, Jumeirah has an organic, established feel – houses vary in style, streets have mature trees, and there's a genuine neighbourhood atmosphere that's hard to find elsewhere in Dubai.

For families, Jumeirah's biggest draw is its schools. JESS Jumeirah (Dubai's oldest British school), Jumeirah College, Kings School Dubai, Dubai English Speaking School, and GEMS Jumeira Primary are all here or nearby. Many families choose Jumeirah specifically so their children can walk or cycle to school – a rarity in Dubai.

The trade-off is price. Jumeirah villas command premium rents, and even older properties that might need updating don't come cheap. But for families who want beach access, established schools, and that leafy suburban feel within easy reach of central Dubai, Jumeirah delivers what newer communities can't replicate.