Old Dubai VS New Dubai
By Hammad Rana Old Dubai displays the cultural heritage and traditional Arabian architecture. It is also home to different souk markets and well-furnished homes. On the other hand, New Dubai boasts massive skyscrapers, luxurious hotels, and modern amenities. It has big shopping malls, theme parks, and high-end restaurants. Both sides of Dubai are equally enchanting in their way and possess their own distinct charm.
Tourists and those who are looking to stay long-term in Dubai should be familiar with both Old and New Dubai. In this blog, we will delve in detail into the contrasting atmospheres, amenities, and lifestyles of Old and New Dubai. Continue Reading to learn more about these two areas of Dubai.
Historical Roots of Old Dubai VS Architectural Marvels of New Dubai
Historical Roots of Old Dubai:
You will find low-rise buildings, narrow alleys, and small streets in Old Dubai. This area is simplistic and peaceful as compared to the hustle and bustle of New Dubai. Old Dubai represents a time when life was less about glamour and more about the essence. Al-Fahidi and Deira neighborhoods are the beating heart of old Dubai and proudly display the cultural tapestry of the city.
The streets are strewn with decades-old restaurants, cafes, retail shops, and grocery stores. Deira and Karama are particularly known for their karak chai cafes that are open till late at night. Their chai lattes are the perfect traditional beverage for the cool desert. You will also find souks and local markets that have been functional here for many decades. Additionally, Old Dubai is home to some of the most authentic Indian and Pakistani restaurants. This area is great for those who want to interact with locals, enjoy traditional Arabian dishes, and have a laid-back day.
Architectural Marvels of New Dubai:
On the other hand, New Dubai is the epitome of luxury and modernity. New Dubai areas like Dubai Hills Estate, Dubai Marina, and Arabian Ranches are embodiments of modern glamour and splendor. Marina Dubai contains a total of 200 skyscrapers and Downtown Dubai boasts Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Arabian Ranches contain thousands of villas and townhouses that are nestled neatly in the middle of manicured gardens and paved walkways.
The allure of New Dubai is not just in its architecture but also in its lifestyle and amenities. The communities of this area have lush green parks, gyms, clubhouses, sports clubs, spas, etc. New Dubai is also home to elite restaurants, nightclubs, resorts, shopping malls, and tourist destinations. These places are the finest in the hospitality, residential, and entertainment industries. New Dubai neighborhoods are a testament to the exponential growth and progress of the UAE.
Property Types in Old Dubai VS Property Types in New Dubai
Property Types in Old Dubai
Old Dubai possesses tons of low-quaint buildings and traditional Villas. You will find charming vintage buildings and classy historical apartments here. These buildings have a unique appeal and character that is associated with Dubai’s past. You will also find commercial and retail spaces at good prices in this area. Though not very glamorous, the residential buildings are well-equipped and furnished for comfortable living. The properties of Old Dubai honor the elegance and simplicity of ancient Arabian architecture.
Property Types in New Dubai
Over the years, the UAE Government has spent a huge amount to develop the infrastructure of New Dubai and the money has been well-spent. The properties in New Dubai are designed for those who enjoy convenience, opulence, and comfort. The New Dubai is strewn with sky-high buildings, glamourous penthouses, high-end lofts, modern apartments, etc. There are numerous upscale residential areas in New Dubai for those who value luxury and comfort. The buildings in this area are equipped with facilities like pools, gyms, green spaces, gated communities, and air-tight security.
Attractions in Old Dubai VS Attractions in New Dubai
Attractions in Old Dubai
Old Dubai has no shortage of attractions and tourist hotspots. It possesses the Deira Clocktower, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, Dubai Creek, and Al Fahidi neighborhood. These historical places give insight into the ancient Arabian traditions and customs. Walking around the streets of Old Dubai neighborhoods is an experience in itself.
You will be able to enjoy and visit most of the attractions without spending lots of money. The price of food in the local cafes and restaurants is also reasonable. You will find the most cheap and authentic cuisines here.
Attractions in New Dubai
New Dubai showcases alluring wonders and marvelous attractions. It has the towering Burj Khalifa, the stunning Dubai Fountain, mesmerizing beaches, and scenic sights of The Pointe Palm Jumeirah among many other attractions. There is also the World famous Museum of the Future which is a popular tourist spot. Moreover, you will find theme restaurants, luxury hotels, innovative landmarks, and many other fun places in New Dubai. The nightlife of New Dubai is also unparalleled as the nightclubs and bars are open all night. Hence, it is not surprising that New Dubai is the hub of the vibrant and contemporary side of Dubai.
Amenities in Old Dubai VS Amenities in New Dubai
Amenities in Old Dubai:
The neighborhoods in Old Dubai have well-furnished buildings that possess all the essentials of modern living standards. Here, people enjoy the simple and modest lifestyle that recalls the bygone eras of Dubai. Though simplicity does not mean that the living situation is unbearable, you can comfortably live in the apartments of Old Dubai. There are also schools, hospitals, restaurants, and supermarkets in this area. But the schools and hospitals are considerably old.
Some of the newer buildings in Old Dubai may have elevators and dedicated parking spaces. But mostly, people have to park on the streets. In Old Dubai, you will also have access to authentic souk markets, ethnic restaurants, and heritage sites. The nightlife of Old Dubai is quiet and peaceful. The UAE government has also developed fitness centers, state-of-the-art hospitals, and new schools in Old Dubai. The neighborhoods of Old Dubai blend the traditional ways of life with modern standards of living.
Amenities in New Dubai:
New Dubai provides an upscale lifestyle and elevated amenities. The neighborhoods of New Dubai provide gated communities, 24/7 security, swimming pools, fitness centers, barbecue areas, social clubs, golf clubs, and carefully manicured gardens. There are also plenty of high-end entertainment hubs, and sports activities that contribute to an active social life. Moreover, you will find many shopping malls and retail shops that sell branded clothing and jewelry.
New Dubai neighborhoods are filled with skyscrapers, tall buildings, and luxurious condos. Each residential building offers a glamorous living experience. You will also find the world’s most expensive fine-dining restaurants in this area. Plus there are breathtaking beaches, stunning theme parks, and modern medical facilities in New Dubai. Lastly, New Dubai’s nightlife is wild and popular as many bars, pubs, and clubs have been built here in past decades. New Dubai is the pinnacle of opulence, luxury, and comfort.
Property Prices in Old Dubai VS Property Prices in New Dubai
Property Prices in Old Dubai
You can easily find affordable houses and villas in Old Dubai. The prices of property in Old Dubai are significantly lower as compared to New Dubai. Nevertheless, the buildings of Old Dubai are equipped with modern facilities and offer decent living conditions. The overall price of renting or buying an apartment in this area will depend upon the neighborhood and the number of rooms in the house.
In Bur Dubai, a studio can be rented for AED 36K. Whereas, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments will cost about AED 56K and AED 75K respectively. A three-bedroom apartment will cost you AED 98K in Bur Dubai. In Al-Nahda, a studio will be available for around AED 27K. A one-bedroom apartment will cost you around AED 36K. A two-bedroom apartment and a three-bedroom apartment can be rented for AED 49K and AED 68K respectively.
Deira is another popular neighborhood in Old Dubai. Here, a studio can be rented for AED 29K. A one-bedroom apartment will cost AED 45K. Similarly, AED 65K for a two-bedroom apartment and AED 89K for a three-bedroom apartment in Deira. In addition, in Al-Karma a studio apartment will cost you AED 38K, and a one-bedroom apartment will cost AED 52K. For two-bedroom apartments and three-bedroom apartments, the rent amount is AED 66K and AED 90K.
Property Prices in New Dubai
The residential and commercial buildings are far more expensive in New Dubai than in Old Dubai. That is because of the luxurious amenities and modern infrastructure of New Dubai. The most in-demand and popular neighborhoods in this area are Dubai Marina, Dubai Hills Estate, and Palm Jumeirah. The glorious lifestyle and elevated apartments can cost you somewhere between AED 86K to AED 150K. You can rent villas, apartments, penthouses, and duplexes, etc.
You will find a studio and one-bedroom apartment in Dubai Marina for AED 68K and AED 103K respectively. Whereas, a two-bedroom can cost AED 151K and three-bedroom apartments can cost about AED 232K. Similarly, a studio in Business Bay Dubai will be available for AED 68K. A one-bedroom apartment will cost AED 85K. Plus AED 132K in Business Bay for two-bedroom apartments and AED 183K for three-bedroom apartments.
In Dubai Hills Estate, you can rent a studio for AED 55K. One-bedroom apartment in Dubai Hill Estate is available for AED 86K. Plus, you can rent two-bedroom apartments and three-bedroom apartments for AED 154K and AED 231K respectively. In addition, Arabian Ranches is a gated villa community where mostly three-, five-, or seven-bedroom villas are available. Here, a three-bedroom apartment can be rented for AED 216K. Similarly, five-bedroom villas are available for AED 319K and seven-bedroom villas are available for AED 417K.
Old Dubai Vs New Dubai: Which is Better?
Both old Dubai and New Dubai have their charm. New Dubai is the pinnacle of glamour and luxury. It is perfect for those who value comfort and patience. In contrast, Old Dubai sustains a simple and elegant lifestyle that offers a glimpse into the cultural past of Dubai. Both areas also have their cons. The New Dubai can be too fast-paced and crowded for many. In the same way, Old Dubai could be too quiet and simple for some.
Tourists should visit both Old Dubai and New Dubai. Visiting both areas will allow them to enjoy cultural authenticity and an elevated lifestyle. If you want to stay in Dubai long-term, you should think about the cons and pros of both areas carefully. Both areas offer a unique set of amenities and provide modern facilities. Your individual preferences, lifestyle, and choices will help you choose the perfect residential area.
Final Words
Old Dubai reminisces the historical past of this city while New Dubai provides indulgence and a high-end lifestyle. Old Dubai has apartments, houses, and villas that are well-furnished and possess the necessities for the modern lifestyle. The properties in Old Dubai are also comparatively cheaper than New Dubai. The architecture of Old Dubai is traditional and pays tribute to the bygone era. In contrast, you will find the apex of luxury and glamour in New Dubai. The elevated apartments, villas, and communities can cost an enormous amount.
New Dubai offers high-end amenities and access to swimming pools, restaurants, theme parks, and all kinds of entertainment hubs. There are also state-of-the-art medical centers, schools, and attractive green spaces in this area. Tourists should visit Old and New Dubai to enjoy both sides of Dubai. There are attractions and entertainment in both areas of Dubai. Old Dubai and New Dubai showcase the ability of this city to provide a dynamic and well-rounded living experience.
