Highlights
ABOUT INTERNATIONAL CITY DUBAI
International City is one of the most affordable housing areas of Dubai’s ever-expanding real estate market. According to Bayut 2020 Dubai Market Report, investing in apartments is a popular option with the best rental yield recorded. Besides affordable accommodation, residents enjoy various perks living in Dubai International City. They have access to the grand Dragon Mart and a range of reputed educational institutes.
POPULAR AREAS | ROI | PRICE PER SQ.FT Avg. Price/sq.ftChange from 2019 | STUDIO | 1-BED | 2-BED |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) | ROI 6.4% | PRICE PER SQ.FT Avg. Price/sq.ftChange from 2019
| STUDIO
| 1-BED
| 2-BED
|
| Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) | ROI 7.4% | PRICE PER SQ.FT Avg. Price/sq.ftChange from 2019
| STUDIO
| 1-BED
| 2-BED
|
| Dubai Silicon Oasis | ROI 7.8% | PRICE PER SQ.FT Avg. Price/sq.ftChange from 2019
| STUDIO
| 1-BED
| 2-BED
|
| Business Bay | ROI 5.9% | PRICE PER SQ.FT Avg. Price/sq.ftChange from 2019
| STUDIO
| 1-BED
| 2-BED
|
| International City | ROI 8.5% | PRICE PER SQ.FT Avg. Price/sq.ftChange from 2019
| STUDIO
| 1-BED
| 2-BED
|
The area, launched by Nakheel in 2002, is well known for its signature low rise country-themed clusters. Conveniently located in the Al Warsan region, International City sprawls over 800 hectares (around 8 million sq. m.) sharing borders with a few popular neighbourhoods like Silicon Oasis and Academic City.
One of the biggest benefits of living in International City is that it offers you a multicultural community lifestyle while keeping the price tags modest. It is most ideal for anyone looking to settle in closely-knit communities. In this area guide, you will find a detailed overview of what the development has to offer.
IN A NUTSHELL
- An abundance of studios and 1-bedroom apartments
- Freehold properties on offer expected to reap lucrative returns
- Close-knit clusters of low rise buildings with unique architecture
- Self-contained communities with shops, salons, launderettes etc.
- Home to the massive Dragon Mart 1 and 2
- Close to Dubai Safari Park and Academic City
Neighbourhood
COMMUNITY OVERVIEW
In a city as cosmopolitan as Dubai, it makes perfect sense to have a community named after the global vibe of the emirate. International City is essentially a residential compound offering people access to community living without a hefty price tag. The 10 prominent building clusters housing the apartments in International City are named after countries around the world, earning the development the moniker of ‘International’ City.
As for the residential side, there is a range of properties from studios to townhomes and villas. Besides the unit and configuration type, one can decide between a wide range of options based on what suits them best. If you’re on a budget, you can rent one of the unfurnished apartments in International City costing around AED 14k, per annum at the minimum. Likewise, those looking to move-in and settle down immediately without paying a hefty amount can buy ready studios in International City.
The development did have a rocky start with some concerns about sanitation, but things have stabilised now and it’s developing into a sought-after location to live in Dubai. Living in International City will never be boring thanks to the two huge Dragon Marts: full of obscure finds, budget deals, restaurants and cinemas.
PROPERTIES IN INTERNATIONAL CITY DUBAI
There are over 500 apartments in International City spread over the 10 residential clusters. The second phase of the project is also under development where a few buildings have even been opened up to buyers and renters. Rental properties in International City are popular among expatriate families and individuals.
The residential clusters are named Persia, Greece, Spain, Morocco, England, France, Italy, Russia, China and Emirates. The Central Business District, located in the centre of the clusters, features some of the larger 2 and 3-bedroom apartments for those looking for a little more space. The freehold properties in International City include a range of villas and townhouses currently restricted to Warsan Village, located on the south-western boundary.
Residents in Dubai International City enjoy a cosmopolitan lifestyle with lush communal areas, lakes and an overall tranquil ambience of an expat community.
Rental Trends in International City
Al Warsan Village is gaining popularity for offering a range of townhouses starting from AED 70k. Other options include 3-bedroom villas for rent in International City costing around AED 68k to AED 100k, per annum. The price tag is justified for the amenities on offer making the International City, one of the most affordable villa communities in Dubai.
Villa Type | Average Rental Price in AED |
|---|---|
Villa Type 3-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 77,000 |
There is a high volume of studios and 1-bedroom apartments for rent in International City making it extremely popular among those looking to live independently. The average rent for studios in International City is AED 19k while 1-bedroom flats can be leased out annually in a price range of AED 20k to AED 36k. These apartments cover around 480 sq. ft. to 900 sq. ft. so, there’s quite a wide range of options based on your budget. Families may be more inclined towards the rental 2-bedroom apartments which average at AED 43k. A typical 2-bed unit spans across 1,100 sq. ft. while those looking for even more space can find 3-bed flats in International City renting out for AED 60k, on average.
Apartment Type | Average Rental Price in AED |
|---|---|
Apartment Type Studio | Average Rental Price in AED 19,000 |
Apartment Type 1-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 28,000 |
Apartment Type 2-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 43,000 |
Apartment Type 3-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 60,000 |
Sales Trends in International City
The neighbourhood also offers freehold properties for those looking to invest in the real estate market of Dubai. If you are looking to buy an independent unit, you can choose between villas and townhouses in International City.
Villa Type | Average Sale Price in AED |
|---|---|
Villa Type 3-Bed | Average Sale Price in AED 1,360,000 |
The average price to buy a 3-bedroom home is AED 1.36M continuing International City’s trend for affordable housing.
Moreover, apartments in International City are competitively priced with average asking prices for studios at AED 229k, 1-bedroom apartments at AED 325k and 2-bedroom apartments at AED 659k.
Apartment Type | Average Sale Price in AED |
|---|---|
Apartment Type Studio | Average Sale Price in AED 229,000 |
Apartment Type 1-Bed | Average Sale Price in AED 325,000 |
Apartment Type 2-Bed | Average Sale Price in AED 659,000 |
Apartment Type 3-Bed | Average Sale Price in AED 926,000 |
ROI in International City
A typical 3-bedroom villa or townhouse costing around AED 1M is expected to generate a 5.8% returns on investment.
Villa Type | ROI |
|---|---|
Villa Type 3-Bed | ROI 5.8% |
It is also feasible for interested investors to buy apartments in International City. These properties cost comparatively lesser and are expected to reap lucrative returns.
Apartment Type | ROI |
|---|---|
Apartment Type Studio | ROI 8.3% |
Apartment Type 1-Bed | ROI 8.4% |
Apartment Type 2-Bed | ROI 5.5% |
Apartment Type 3-Bed | ROI 5.7% |
1-bed flats and studios fare best with the highest expected returns on investment, 8.4% and 8.3% respectively. 3 and 2-bedroom apartments in International City round up the list with 5.7% and 5.5% returns respectively.
Most Popular Communities
Each residential cluster within the community features exclusive architectural theme and a range of amenities. Those deciding on where they can get the best deal can consider the popular communities in International City based on the user-generated views on Bayut’s official website.
Over the past few months, Phase 2 has evolved into a popular area in International City to buy properties. There are many residential buildings, brand new apartments and off-plan properties in the cluster. Most properties in this sub-community are newly constructed. Those searching for new apartment for sale in Phase 2 can choose between studios to 2-bedroom units.
Another popular option is England Cluster. Here, you will find a good range of rental studios and 1-bedroom apartments. England Cluster is known for its buildings featuring Victorian architectural themes, commonly found in 18th and 19th century British architecture. Spain Cluster closely follows next, one of the popular clusters in International City to rent apartments. The domed windows and bright peach Mediterranean tiled themed low-rise buildings of Spain Cluster will remind you of traditional Spanish architecture.
Finally, Central Business District and France Cluster round up the list. Central Business District is home to many different buildings such as Royal Residence, Global Green View 2 and Al Dana 2.
International City Floor Plans
Interested tenants can take a look at International City floor plans for popular communities/buildings in the neighbourhood.
TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING SPACES IN INTERNATIONAL CITY
Parking is free in most parts of International City but not all buildings feature dedicated residents’ parking. Residents and visitors will both have to find a free spot on the street.
Public Transport in International City
As for public transportation near International City, the area is not directly connected to the metro. Instead, there are four bus routes for the area, taking you to popular metro stations like Centrepoint Metro Station, Etisalat Metro Station and Al Nahda Metro Station. Access to the main roads is not an issue because it’s situated between Interchanges 5 and 6 of Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, but traffic congestions are common during the peak hours on weekdays.
AMENITIES, SCHOOLS AND HEALTHCARE
Residents can enjoy shopping at the grand Dragon Mart and access a range of reputed educational institutes. Also, the residential clusters in International City are self-sustained offering all basic lifestyle amenities within reach.
Supermarkets in International City
The Carrefour in Dragon Mart 2 is the place to go if you have to do a monthly shop and stock up on essentials. Other popular supermarkets in International City include smaller versions of Lulu and Growth Mart.
The clusters of flats in this neighbourhood feature convenience stores to cater to your daily needs, even home delivering groceries over a phone call. The speciality ethnic stores in the clusters are well known for stocking authentic goods from their respective countries.
Churches, Temples and Mosques in International City Dubai
The most notable mosques in International City are Persia cluster’s Cabin Mosque, Spain cluster’s Sheikh Abdel Hameed Masjid and England cluster’s Masjid-e-Noor. Residents will have to travel a bit far to visit the top churches in Dubai, Dubai City Church and St. Mary’s Church in Oud Metha are located a 30-minute drive away. The nearest temples include Krishna Temple and the Shiva Temple in Bur Dubai, accessible in around half an hour.
Nurseries and Schools in International City Dubai
There are many reputed nurseries in International City. For tiny tots, Kids World International and Fly High Nursery is a notable institute. Parents looking at high school options will find plenty of reputable schools nearby located in A Warqaa. International School of Arts & Sciences offers the American curriculum, the full syllabus up till Year 12.
Other options include GEMS Modern Academy, offering the Indian Curriculum until Year 12 and the IB system for Year 11 and 12. Repton School in Nad Al Sheba offers the UK and IB module of education until Year 13.
The neighbourhood is in proximity to Dubai International Academic City which has a range of reputable international and local universities. Residents in International City can access a few of the best universities in Academic City such as the University of Birmingham Dubai, Murdoch University Dubai and Zayed University.
Clinics and Hospitals in International City
If you are feeling under the weather, the hospitals in International City are at a hand’s reach with at least two clinics in each cluster. Some of the best clinics in Dubai have branches here including Apple Clinic, Aster Clinic and Amber Clinic where you can easily go for a quick consultation. Pharmacies are staples of most building clusters, and both Dragon Marts have large branches of Life Pharmacy.
Nearby Areas
International City is close to Dubai Silicon Oasis, Al Warqaa and Academic City. The most popular tourist hotspot nearby is the Dubai Safari Park launched in late 2017 housing over 2,500 animals, reptiles and birds.
Lifestyle
SHOPPING, DINING AND NIGHTLIFE
Malls in International City
It’s a little difficult to live in Dubai and be far away from a mall!
DRAGON MART
The mega Dragon Mart is one-stop-shop for those looking for malls in International City. It consists of Dragon Mart 1 and Dragon Mart 2 both of which are the largest trading hubs for Chinese goods in Dubai, making it a firm favourite for retail therapy. With over 4,000 stores, these malls have multiple retail outlets featuring brands you may not encounter anywhere else! Walking around Dragon Mart and finding the best deals is one of the biggest advantages of living in International City.
Restaurants in International City
Known as a foodie hub, the restaurants in International City are known for their authentic offerings. Popular chains like Chilis, Le Pain Quotidien and Starbucks are relegated to the malls, while smaller local cafes and shisha lounges dot the clusters of International City.
International City is home to some of the best-hidden gems in Dubai, most of the restaurants in each cluster are known to be authentic eateries. There are no licensed restaurants or bars in the area, so if you fancy a pint, you have to head further into the city centre.
Beaches near International City
If you fancy a day picnic, the closest beach near International City is Jumeirah Beach, just over half an hour drive away.
LEISURE ACTIVITIES AND NOTABLE LANDMARKS
Dubai has grown into a city known for its lush green golf courses and International City has not been left behind, the Track at Meydan golf course in Nad Al Sheba is just 15 minutes away.
DESERT PALM POLO CLUB
If you are planning to explore any new sports avenues and things to do in International City, equestrian centres like the Desert Palm Polo Club and the Emirates Desert Equestrian Club are great places to frequent.
Nature lovers can spend hours in the company of migrating birds in the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, just 15 minutes away from the neighbourhood. One of the biggest benefits of living in International City is getting to sight these pink-legged flamingos found in abundance at close quarters during winters!
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, FITNESS AND BEAUTY
One of the key updates to the International City development was the launch of the Lake District in Al Warsan. The residential complexes here are under construction, but Al Warsan Lake, fringed by landscaped parks in International City, is popular for walks and jogs in the evening. The neighbourhood also has Paris Children’s Park in the France cluster.
Fitness enthusiasts will be happy to know there are several gymnasiums around the area, apart from the small fitness centres in the buildings. Notable amongst these are V Fitness, Fitness 360 and Target Gym.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
International City has become a hallmark of affordable living in Dubai, attracting a large number of residents and investors. But one of the things to consider when you are moving to International City is the limited access to public transportation. However, several buses and taxis shuttle nearby so one can easily get to the metro station in the neighbouring locality, Rashidiya.
The other area of concern is the parking-related issues in the community. As more infrastructure develops around the area, this too will hopefully be resolved.
FAQs About International City
Is International City freehold?
International City is a freehold area, it mainly offers apartments for sale.
Which is the best cluster in International City?
Among the 10 clusters in International City 1 the most popular cluster is Spain Cluster. The buildings feature Mediterranean details such as low pitched roofs, domed windows, stucco exteriors and peach tiling. In International City as a whole, the most popular community is the Phase 2 development.
Which metro station is close to International City?
The closest metro stations are the Centrepoint Metro Station and the Etisalat Metro Station. The best option is to use the Dubai Metro to Centrepoint Metro Station and then take Bus 365 to International City.
Location
- Dubai International Airport is 25 minutes away
- A 30 to 35-minute drive to the central district, Dubai Marina
- Dubai Central Fruit and Vegetable Market is just 8 minutes away
- Sheikh Zayed Road is 30 minutes away
- Academic City and residential hub Dubai Silicon Oasis are close neighbours