About International City, Dubai
One of Dubai's most reasonably priced residential locations is International City. The neighbourhood consists of housing clusters modelled as per the residences of various countries across the globe. It provides working professionals and families with a range of comfortable and pleasant housing options at affordable prices. The clusters remind one of the fictitious versions of each country’s architectural styles; China, England, the United Arab Emirates, Russia, Italy, Spain, France, Morocco, Persia, and the United Kingdom. These clusters are surrounded by the Central Business District and a location resembling Beijing's Forbidden City. International City’s location on Mohammed Bin Zayed Road is between interchanges 5 and 6.
In the ten residential neighbourhoods and the Central Business District, there are 485 apartment buildings. With the apartments' focus on low to middle-class salaries, rents are unusually modest for Dubai compared to the other localities.
International City was developed by Nakheel Properties, a Dubai-based real estate company, in 2002. The district, which encompasses 800 hectares and is ideally located in the Al Warsan region, borders a few well-known neighbourhoods, including Silicon Oasis and Academic City. Residing in International City offers you a global community lifestyle whilst maintaining affordable pricing, which is one of the main advantages. For those who like to live in close-knit communities, the International City, Dubai, is the best option.
Key Highlights of International City, Dubai
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Diverse Culture
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Satisfactory and sufficient public transport
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Affordable housing options
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Accessible from significant areas
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Numerous medical facilities
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Abundant leisure and recreational options
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Top restaurant chains
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Nearby schools and academic institutions
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Traffic congestion
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Limited Parking Spaces
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Cleanliness and sanitation issues
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Maintenance issues
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Noise pollution
Real Estate Overview in International City, Dubai
In International City, there are more than 485 apartments distributed among the 10 residential clusters. A couple of the project's second-phase structures have already been made available to potential buyers and tenants. Families and individuals from abroad like renting homes in International City.
The names of the residential clusters are Persia, Greece, Spain, Morocco, England, France, Italy, Russia, China, and the United Arab Emirates. For those seeking a little bit more space, the Central Business District, located in the middle of the clusters, offers some of the bigger 2 and 3-bedroom apartments. Freehold homes in a range of villas and townhouses in International City Dubai are currently only allowed in Warsan Village on the southern limit.
International City, Dubai residents enjoy a cosmopolitan lifestyle with beautiful shared spaces, lakes, and a relatively peaceful atmosphere, distinctive in an expatriate neighbourhood.
Off-Plan Trends in International City, Dubai
International City comprises clusters which feature apartments and villas. The district continues to expand with numerous upcoming projects in various clusters.
Price Trends in International City
Rental Trends in International City, Dubai
Localities in Dubai offer properties at high prices compared to other cities. At the same time, International City has some of the most refined residential apartments available for rent at reasonable prices, especially for families. The studio apartments in this neighbourhood are the most affordable choices. One can find 1 to 3-bedroom apartment properties for rent in International City.
Although there are not as many 3-bedroom apartments in the district as other types, they are reasonably priced. Numerous new buildings are available in the International City district and are always looking for new tenants.
By Budget
By Property Type
Sale Trends in International City, Dubai
Investing in Dubai's real estate market offers big returns. International City houses freehold properties for investment purposes as well. In terms of purchasing a standalone property, villas and townhouses are available housing options in International City.
The average sale trend of apartments and villas in International City follows the district’s history of inexpensive housing. The same layout of an apartment and villa in another district will cost double or maybe even triple the amount. Compared to other localities, the properties in International City seem like a lucrative choice for investors.
By Budget
By Property Type
Public Transportation
The vicinity of International City does not have a direct connection to the metro in terms of public transit. Four bus services cover the area to get to well-known metro stations like Centrepoint Metro Station, Etisalat Metro Station, and Al Nahda Metro Station. To reach International City from other parts of Dubai, bus lines 24, 53, 55, 366, and 367 take you there. Given its location between Interchanges 5 and 6 on Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, accessibility to the main highways is not a hindrance, but weekday rush-hour traffic jams frequently cause heavy congestion.
The following bus lines traverse through the International City -
| Bus Line Number | Destination |
| X23 | France 1 |
| 300 | France 2 |
| 53, 55 | Civil Defence |
| 365, 366 | Rashidiya Metro Bus Parking |
| 367 | Dragon Mart |
| 24 | Greece K12 Terminus |
Amenities
Nurseries / Educational Institutes
Each cluster in International City, Dubai, has multiple academic institutions, including nurseries and schools. A few of the best nurseries in International City for the little ones in the district are –
- The Fly High Nursery
- Kids World International
Some of the best schools for secondary education in International City, Dubai are –
- The International School of Arts and Sciences based on the American curriculum.
- GEMS Modern Academy provides students up to grade 12 with an Indian curriculum.
- Repton School offers a British programme
- The American School of Dubai
- Jumeirah English Speaking School
International City is adjacent to Dubai International Academic City, which is home to multiple esteemed local and international colleges. Residents of the area have access to several of Academic City’s major universities including
- Zayed University
- Murdoch University Dubai
- The University of Birmingham Dubai.
Supermarkets
International City is not short of retail therapy, especially when it has two enormous shopping centres, Dragon Mart and Dragon Mart 2.
- Dragon Mart – The largest shopping centre is 1,200-metre-long and has 3,950 retail stores.
- Dragon Mart 2 – The mall opened in 2016 and has over 1,000 retail stores. The Carrefour at Dragon Mart 2 is the best spot to complete monthly grocery runs and fill up on necessities. In International City, tiny versions of Lulu’s and Growth Mart supermarkets are also extremely popular.
Convenience stores that can meet daily needs are found in the apartment complexes in each cluster district. Delivery of goods to one’s home is available when ordered over the phone. The ethnic niche shops in the clusters are renowned for retailing authentic merchandise from their distinctive countries.
Healthcare Facilities
Healthcare facilities are a priority in every city, and the government works towards offering the best medical help to its citizens. In International City, Dubai, there are several hospitals, clinics, and speciality medical centres around each cluster. They include –
- Xie He Medical Centre
- NMC Clinic
- Apple Clinic
- Ibn Sina Centre for Health
- Shanghai Medical Centre
- Amber Clinic
- Aster Clinic
- Rashid Hospital
- Al Garhoud Private Hospital
The two Dragon Marts include massive Life Pharmacy outlets, and most apartment cluster buildings have pharmacies tucked away at the ground level.
Places of Worship
Dubai’s official religion is Islam. However, the city ensures the right to practice one’s religion without interference from the government or morality. It declares that everyone is treated equally under the law and forbids prejudice based on religious conviction. Thus, one can find numerous places of worship, such as mosques, churches, and temples, in International City, Dubai.
The three most prominent mosques in International City are –
- The Cabin Mosque in the Persia Cluster
- The Sheikh Abdel Hameed Masjid in the Spain Cluster
The major churches in Dubai are a bit out of reach for locals; it takes a 30-minute drive to get to the closest churches. They are –
- Dubai City Church
- St. Mary’s Church in Oud Metha
The closest temples, which can be reached around 30 minutes from International City, Dubai are –
- The Krishna Temple
- The Shiva Temple in Bur Dubai
Best Hotels in International City, Dubai
The International City calls upon an influx of tourists every year as Dubai conducts numerous events all year round. This leads to a hike in Dubai’s economy and gives tourism a big boost. Thus, hotels are in great demand, and International City has several of the best hotels. Some of the best hotels are -
- Ibis Styles Dragon Mart Dubai
- Premier Inn Dubai Dragon Mart
- Millennium Place Mirdiff
- Melia Desert Palm Resort
- Holiday Inn Dubai Festival City
Lifestyle
Shopping Centres / Shopping Malls
Dubai would be incomplete without its shopping malls. Hence, for retail therapy, every locality in the neighbourhood has access to numerous shopping malls such as –
- Dragon Mart
- Dragon Mart 2
- The Mall of the Emirates
- Dubai Mall, which is about 25 minutes from the district.
Dragon Mart
- The local centre for Chinese goods is in Dragon Mart.
- It houses 4,000 shops, a communal plaza, and a 10,000 square metres Carrefour store.
- It also features a 3-star hotel with 2,400 rooms, a terrace, a food court, and a Novo Cinema.
Global Village
- In addition, International City is adjacent to Global Village, Dubai’s major shopping area.
- Residents can indeed experience a spectacular time stocking up on unique discoveries from across the world.
- This shopping wonderland opens around the winter period.
Restaurants / Dining
International City is known for offering a diverse range of restaurants where visitors can experience international cuisines that are true to their origins. Popular restaurant franchises mostly found in large retail malls have multiple dining locations in the district, such as:
- Chili’s
- Le Pain Quotidien
- Starbucks
Additionally, International City’s streets are lined with a variety of small neighbourhood cafes and hookah lounges. Most eateries are famous for serving traditional cuisines, such as:
- Nine Squares Restaurant
- Dyar Al Sham
Consequently, International City in Dubai does not possess licenced restaurants or pubs nearby; hence, visitors will have to travel to the city centre to enjoy a pint.
Beaches Nearby
International City is not surrounded by beaches. However, a few famous Dubai beaches are within walking distance of the district. The closest beaches to International City are over a 30-minute drive away to enjoy a picnic, barbecue cookout, stroll, or swim. They are:
- Jumeirah Beach
- Sunset Beach
- Burj Al Arab
- Kite Beach
Leisure Activities Nearby
To the surprise of many, International City in Dubai offers a plethora of leisure activities for residents and tourists. The district is an excellent neighbourhood to reside in because of all the recreational opportunities nearby.
These include –
- The track at Meydan golf course in Nad Al Sheba is 15 minutes away from the district. International City has caught up to Dubai, which has developed into a city recognised for its lush green golf courses.
- The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, 15 minutes from the district, is a great place for natural environment enthusiasts who can devote hours to watching migratory birds. Seeing the pink-legged flamingos up close and in great numbers throughout the winter is one of the best aspects of living in International City.
- Sports enthusiasts will also be pleased to learn that this district is close to the city’s well-known horseback arenas, such as:
- The Emirates Desert Equestrian Club
- Desert Palm Polo Club
- In addition, International City is within a 10-minute drive of the renowned Melia Desert Palm resort, among other resorts.
International City - Location Map and Landmarks
Distance and Commute Time
- The distance from International City to Dubai International Airport is 16 minutes away (19.3 km) via the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road.
- Dubai Marina, the city's centre, is accessible after a 30- to 35-minute drive, approximately 44 km.
- The distance from International City Dubai to Jumeirah Beach is 29 minutes (26 km) away via Manama Street (D67).
- Sheikh Zayed Road to International City is about 30 to 35 minutes' drive (42km) away.
- The distance from International City to Academic City is a 10-minute (8.8 km) drive away.
- Dubai Silicon Oasis is a 12-minute (10.9km) drive away from International City.
- The closest bus stop to International City is Rashidiya Metro Bus Station, which is at a distance of 14 minutes (11.2 km) via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311)
Ratings and Reviews
To serve the countless ex-pats living in Dubai, developers Nakheel constructed International City. Although there are many apartments in the area, there aren’t many recreational amenities or parks. The Dragon Mart and Dragon Mart 2 malls are at the district entrance, the former of which features a multiplex.
We have been living in International R27 for the past 6 years and are extremely happy with this cluster and neighbourhood. Recently, they developed a basketball court near Cluster France R 27, which turned out to be exceptional. However, there is a suggestion to build seating arrangements around the areas for parents to sit while the kids play.
I have been living here for the past 2 years in the Persia Cluster. Getting a parking spot after 10 p.m. is very difficult and has been a major concern for a long time. I have to find a spot far away from my building. But on the whole, the district is exceptional, with all amenities and leisure alternatives within close reach.
The neighbourhood is more for bachelors than for families and women. Even though the neighbourhood is quite affordable and full of families, it is too far from the main city and may not be a safe place for families and women to wander around.
International City has affordable housing options with all amenities and facilities. Everything is available within walking distance from supermarkets, parks, malls, and restaurants. The only drawback is that there is no direct metro connectivity.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
Is International City Freehold?
Yes, International City, Dubai is freehold and offers only apartments and villas for sale.
What are the top attractions in International City, Dubai?
The top attractions available in International City are Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, the Emirates Desert Equestrian Club, Desert Palm Polo Club and Meydan golf course in Nad Al Sheba.
How to get to International City in Dubai by bus and metro? Which is the nearest metro station?
International City does not offer direct metro connectivity. To reach International City, bus lines 24, 53, 55, 366, and 367 take you there.
Which are the best communities to live in International City, Dubai?
International City is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an economical and comfortable lifestyle. Some of the top neighbourhoods in International City are Phase 2, the Spain Cluster, the England Cluster, and the Central Business District.
What are the best hotels and restaurants in International City?
The best hotels in International City are Ibis Styles Dubai Dragon Mart, Premier Inn Dubai Dragon Mart, and Melia Desert Palm Resort. The top restaurants to visit in International City are Nine Squares Restaurant and Dyar Al-Sham.
Which are the famous malls and supermarkets in the International City?
The top malls and supermarkets in International City are Dragon Mart and Dragon Mart 2, which feature everything under one roof. It houses 4,000 shops, a communal plaza, a Carrefour store that is 10,000 square metres in size, a Novo Cinema, and a 3-star hotel.
Which are the best schools in International City, Dubai?
The best schools in International City are:
- The International School of Arts and Sciences
- GEMS Modern Academy
- Repton School offers a British programme
- The American School of Dubai
- Jumeirah English Speaking School
Which are the best hospitals and clinics in International City, Dubai?
International City has some of the best hospitals and clinics. Some of them are Xie He Medical Centre, Apple Clinic, Ibn Sina Centre for Health, Shanghai Medical Centre, Amber Clinic, Aster Clinic, Rashid Hospital, and Al Garhoud Private Hospital.
Which are the famous places of worship in International City, Dubai?
In and around International City, there are numerous places of worship serving different religions. They are Cabin Mosque in the Persia Cluster, Sheikh Abdel Hameed Masjid in the Spain Cluster, Masjid-e-Noor in the England Cluster, Dubai City Church, St. Mary’s Church in Oud Metha, the Krishna Temple, and the Shiva Temple in Bur Dubai.
What are the pros and cons of living in International City, International City?
The advantages of living in International City, Dubai, are that it provides sufficient transportation options, the locality encourages a diverse culture, it offers affordable housing options with a wide range of amenities, facilities, and leisure options, and it consists of the best academic institutions in Dubai. However, the downside of living in International City is that the residents are unhappy due to the traffic congestion, limited parking spaces, and maintenance issues.
