Moving to Dubai with kids? The community you choose will shape your family's entire experience. Schools, parks, safety, and neighbours matter more than marble lobbies.
1. Arabian Ranches — Best Overall
The gold standard for family living. Villa-only, beautifully landscaped, genuine neighbourhood feel. JESS Arabian Ranches on doorstep, central park, golf course, cycling paths. Kids play outside freely.
| Sub-community | Type | Price (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| AR1 (Alvorada, Saheel) | Villas | 3M-8M |
| AR2 (Rasha, Palma) | Townhouses & Villas | 2M-5M |
| AR3 (Sun, Joy, Spring) | Townhouses & Villas | 1.8M-4M |
2. Dubai Hills Estate — Best Amenities
Emaar masterplan with championship golf course, 180+ acre Central Park, Dubai Hills Mall, and King's College Hospital in-community. Modern, well-planned, green.
Apartments: AED 1M-4M · Townhouses: AED 2.5M-5.5M · Villas: AED 5M-25M+
3. JVC — Best Value
Doesn't have the glamour but delivers space and affordability. Multiple parks, Circle Mall, JSS International School. Central location — 15 min to Marina, 20 to Downtown. Rental yields 7-10%.
Apartments: AED 500K-1.2M · Townhouses: AED 1M-2M · Villas: AED 1.5M-3.5M
4. Springs / Meadows / Lakes — Most Established
Home to expat families since the early 2000s. 20+ years of proven community living. Emirates International School, walking paths around lakes, mature landscaping. Extremely safe and social.
Springs: AED 1.8M-3.5M · Meadows: AED 3M-8M · Lakes: AED 4M-12M
5. Town Square — Best New-Build Value
Nshama's purpose-built family community. Massive central park with skate park, splash pad, outdoor cinema. Apartments from AED 400K, townhouses from AED 900K.
Quick Comparison
| Community | Budget | Schools | Parks | Safety | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arabian Ranches | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Dubai Hills | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ |
| JVC | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ |
| Springs/Meadows | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Town Square | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ |
Tips for Families
- Visit at school drop-off time — see who actually lives there
- Check school waitlists early — top schools have 1-2 year waitlists
- Talk to residents — join the community WhatsApp group
- Consider your commute — Dubai traffic is real
- Rent before buying — live there 6-12 months first
Looking for Family-Friendly Properties?
We help families find the right community — not just the right apartment.