Dubai Business Bay Area Guide 2023

About Area

Business Bay is a highly sought-after neighborhood in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is in the heart of Dubai, south of the Downtown Dubai area, and is a commercial, residential, and business center all rolled into one.

One of the most prominent features of Business Bay is the Dubai Canal, which runs through the center of the district, providing beautiful waterfront views and a range of recreational activities. The district is also home to several architecturally striking buildings, including high-rise residential towers and commercial skyscrapers.

Business Bay has emerged as one of the most important business hubs in the region, attracting a range of multinational corporations and top-tier businesses from around the world. The district offers easy access to Sheikh Zayed Road, one of the main highways in Dubai, and is also located in close proximity to Dubai International Airport.

In terms of residential properties, Business Bay offers a range of options, including apartments, penthouses, and villas, with a variety of sizes and styles to suit different needs and budgets. The district also has a range of amenities, including shopping malls, restaurants, cafes, parks, and fitness centers.

Architecture

Business Bay is a district of towering structures and picturesque man-made canals. While much of the area is still being constructed, it is set to become a showcase of magnificent architecture that exudes elegance and luxury. Residential apartments in the area are spacious and well-lit, ranging from studios to five-bedroom apartments, penthouses, lofts, and duplexes. Many of these apartments are also available as freehold projects.

The Executive Towers are the most notable development in Business Bay, with all the towers interconnected and hosting Bay Avenue, a shopping mall with retail outlets and top-notch cafes and restaurants.

The Opus by Omniyat, designed by the late Zaha Hadid, is a true architectural wonder. The building features a void in the middle of its heart and houses various residences, a world-class hotel, boutique retailers, vibrant bars, and an international nightclub, as well as recreational facilities for residents. The Opus is designed to offer stylish, luxurious, and exclusive urban living around the clock.

Key Features

1. Location. Business Bay is located in the heart of Dubai, south of the Downtown Dubai area. It offers simple access to Sheikh Zayed Road, one of the main highways in Dubai, and is also located in close proximity to Dubai International Airport.

2. Dubai Canal. The Dubai Canal runs through the center of Business Bay and offers beautiful waterfront views and a range of recreational activities, including jogging, cycling, and boat rides.

3. High-rise buildings. Business Bay is home to several architecturally striking high-rise buildings, including residential towers and commercial skyscrapers.

4. Business hub. Business Bay has emerged as one of the most important business hubs in the region, attracting a range of multinational corporations and top-tier businesses from around the world.

5. Residential properties. Business Bay offers a range of residential properties, including apartments, penthouses, and villas, with a variety of sizes and styles to suit different needs and budgets.

6. Amenities. Business Bay has a range of amenities, including shopping malls, restaurants, cafes, parks, and fitness centers.

7. Proximity to attractions. Business Bay is located in close proximity to a variety of attractions, including the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Opera.

Pros and Cons

Pros

1. Strategic location. Business Bay is located in the heart of Dubai, making it easily accessible from all parts of the city.

2. Business-friendly. It is one of the most preferred locations for businesses in Dubai, thanks to its modern infrastructure, favorable business policies, and numerous commercial developments.

3. High-end residential options. The area offers luxurious residential properties with stunning views of Dubai's skyline and the Dubai Canal.

4. Entertainment options. The area has plenty of options for entertainment, including parks, restaurants, and shopping malls.

5. Access to transportation. The Business Bay metro station connects the area to other parts of Dubai, making it easy to commute.

Cons

1. Heavy traffic. As a commercial and residential hub, Business Bay experiences heavy traffic, especially during peak hours.

2. Expensive. Business Bay is one of the more expensive neighborhoods in Dubai, with high-end residential and commercial properties.

3. Construction. There are still ongoing construction projects in Business Bay, which can cause inconvenience to residents and businesses.

4. Limited green spaces. Despite its proximity to the Dubai Canal, Business Bay has limited green spaces and parks.

5. Noise pollution. The area can be noisy due to its location near major highways and ongoing construction.

Property

Rental trends

The rental trends in Business Bay show that there are various options available for tenants. Residential towers in the area offer apartments with a range of amenities, including gyms, swimming pools, and children's playgrounds.

The average rent for studio apartments in Business Bay is AED 57,000 per year. For 1-bedroom apartments, the average rent is AED 76,000 per year. 2-bedroom flats have an average rental price of AED 116,000 per year. For tenants looking for larger units, 3-bedroom apartments in Business Bay have an average price of AED 159,000 per year, and 4-bedroom apartments can be AED 257,000 per year.

It's worth noting that studio and 1-bedroom apartments in Business Bay have a wider range of rental prices, with some studios available for as low as AED 28,000 per year and some 1-bedroom apartments available for as much as AED 200,000 per year.

Overall, Business Bay offers a range of rental options for tenants, with prices varying depending on the apartment size, location, and amenities offered.

Sales trends

Sales trends in Business Bay show that buying apartments in the area is becoming increasingly popular. The average selling price for studio apartments in Business Bay is AED 815,000.

For those interested in buying a 1-bedroom apartment in Business Bay, the average selling price is AED 1,230,000. 2-bedroom apartments come at AED 2.033 million, while 3-bedroom apartments have an average price of AED 3.247 million.

For larger units, 4-bedroom apartments for sale in Business Bay have an average sale price of AED 8.253 million. The average price for 5-bedroom apartments is AED 37.420 million and can go up to AED 40 million.

In reality, the sale prices for studios and 1-bedroom apartments in Business Bay have a wider range, with some studios available for as low as AED 418,000 and some 1-bedroom apartments available for as much as AED 2.8 million.

Upcoming Projects

Here are some upcoming projects in Business Bay: 

• Safa Two by DAMAC. The apartments the project offers are studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments, set to be handed over by 2026.

• Chic Tower by DAMAC. The building offers studio, 1, and 2-bedroom apartments, with an estimated handover in Q2 of 2026.

• Peninsula One, Two, Three, and Four The Plaza by Select Group. These projects will have a studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments, as well as duplexes and penthouses, with an estimated handover in Q4 of 2024 for the first three and in 2026 for the fourth.

• Regalia by Deyaar. The development offers studios, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments, as well as duplexes and penthouses, set to be handed over by 2024.

• Jumeirah Living Business Bay. The project will have 2, 3, and 4-bedroom apartments and 4 and 5-bedroom penthouses, with an estimated handover in Q4 of 2025.

Properties in Dubai Business Bay

Business Bay area has a prime location in the city, featuring apartments and penthouses. Many Business Bay architectures make up Dubai's iconic skyline. Apartments in Business Bay come as studios, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments, and 4-bedroom luxury apartments and penthouses.

The apartment towers in Business Bay, Executive Towers, have 4-bedroom penthouses in Business Bay which span 6,200 sq. ft. to 7,341 sq. ft. You can find there duplexes with four spacious bedrooms, a maid's room, five to six bathrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, open and fully fitted kitchen, a comfortable living and dining space, a storage room, a study room, and parking spaces. These penthouses also have a huge terrace with a private pool.

Dubai Properties Business Bay is home to several hotel apartments in studio to 3-bedroom layouts. These units comprise bedrooms with bathrooms, a spacious living area, a well-equipped kitchen, a separate sitting area, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a large/balcony terrace.

There are a few pavilion villas for rent in the Executive Towers apart from the Sky Villas and the Marasi floating villas along the Dubai Canal.

Commercial Property

Business Bay in Dubai has several popular commercial buildings, including The Binary, Clover Bay Tower, The Prism, Tamani Arts Offices, The Citadel, Bayswater Tower, Iris Bay, The Exchange Business Bay, and Metropolis Tower.

The Binary, developed by Omniyat, features five connected podium levels and two towers with 30 stories. The project also includes basements, a ground floor, and 15 retail units on the ground floor. There are general, unfurnished, and built-in offices. Unfurnished offices have basic interiors that can be designed at the owners' discretion. Fitted offices have basic layouts constructed by the developer, and the finishes are to be done by professionals hired by the owner.

Bayswater Tower, also developed by Omniyat, features 293 offices on 25 floors. The Citadel, developed by Deyaar, is a 48-story commercial tower offering 406 offices. Other popular commercial buildings in Business Bay offer a range of office sizes, layouts, and amenities to meet the needs of different businesses.

Transport and Access

1. Driving distances. Dubai Mall is roughly a 13-minute drive from Business Bay, while Palm Jumeirah takes around 21 minutes, Burj Al Arab takes approximately 23 minutes, and The Walk JBR takes approximately 25 minutes.

2. Airport proximity. Dubai International Airport (DXB) is located roughly 32 minutes away from Business Bay by car, while the newer Al Maktoum International Airport takes approximately 43 minutes by car.

3. Road access. Business Bay is conveniently located near both Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road, which are the two main highways running through Dubai. In June 2018, Phase 2 of the Parallel Roads Improvement Project was completed, which widened the street from three to four lanes in each direction and built service roads in most parts of the project.

4. Public transport. Business Bay Metro station offers easy access to public transportation, with the international airport and Dubai Marina each taking about 30 minutes by train. The Dubai Water Canal, which is 100 meters wide, connects Business Bay to the sea and offers water transport from Dubai Creek to reach Business Bay, Jumeirah, Al Wasl, or Sheikh Zayed Road. Stations for water buses and private boats have been built on both sides of the canal, making this a popular mode of transportation and a major attraction for tourists and residents alike.

5. Parking access. Parking access in Business Bay varies depending on the building and location. Some residential and commercial buildings in Business Bay provide designated parking spaces for their tenants or customers, while others have public parking areas nearby. Visitors to Business Bay can use the RTA's paid parking services, which can be accessed through the RTA's mobile app or through parking meters located throughout the district. Payment can be made using cash, credit card, or through the RTA's mobile app.

   Overall, while parking in Business Bay can be limited, there are options available for visitors and tenants, including public parking and designated parking areas in some buildings.

Amenities

Business Bay offers a range of amenities, including some of the world's most popular attractions. The Dubai Mall, the largest shopping mall in the world, and Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, are both located less than a 13-minute drive away. In fact, it's possible to walk to these attractions when the weather is not too hot.

One Business Bay is a 35-story skyscraper located at the northern entrance of Business Bay, close to the Metro. Its prime location offers easy access to other major business hubs in the area, such as Dubai International Financial Centre and Emirates Towers. Other amenities in Business Bay include a range of restaurants, cafes, hotels, parks, and fitness centers.

Education

Nurseries

1. Blossom Business Bay Nursery. This well-known nursery provides a healthy and educational environment for children aged from toddlers to 5 years old. The curriculum includes language development, mathematics, communication skills, physical development, and exploration of nature and technology. Parents have praised the caring and experienced staff, as well as the engaging and interactive learning activities offered at Blossom Nursery.

2. Maple Bear Nursery Business Bay. This nursery offers a trilingual curriculum in Arabic, English, and French and follows both the Canadian and British EYFS curriculums. Parents have praised the excellent education provided by the highly qualified staff, as well as the engaging and fun learning environment for children.

3. Kids Castle Nursery. This nursery follows the British EYFS curriculum and focuses on mathematics, communication skills, language, physical development, and expressive art design. Parents have praised the caring and attentive staff, as well as the emphasis on children's health and safety.

4. Canadian Nursery Business Bay. This nursery offers high-quality teaching methods to develop children's skills and knowledge, with a focus on English, French, and Arabic languages. The Canadian Nursery follows both the Canadian and British EYFS curriculums and offers a variety of fun and educational activities for children.

5. Learning Tree Nursery Business Bay. This nursery provides a fun and interactive learning environment for children, focusing on developing their social skills through interactive games and special events. The curriculum includes communication methods, languages, design, art, mathematics, and more. Parents have praised the engaging and stimulating learning environment, as well as the attentive and caring staff at Learning Tree Nursery.

Schools

There are no schools specifically located in Business Bay, but there are several schools nearby that serve the community. Here are some of the schools in close proximity to Business Bay:

1. Dubai Modern Education School, located in Al Mizher, Dubai Modern Education School offers American curriculum education to students from KG1 to Grade 12.

2. Dubai National School, also located in Al Barsha, Dubai National School offers American curriculum education to students from KG1 to Grade 12.

3. GEMS Wellington Primary School, located in Al Sufouh, offers British curriculum education to students from FS1 to Year 6.

4. Dubai British School, located in The Springs, Dubai British School, offers British curriculum education to students from Foundation Stage to Year 13.

5. Regent International School, located in The Greens, Regent International School offers British curriculum education to students from FS1 to Year 13.

6. Dubai International School (DIS) is an international school located in Al Garhoud, Dubai. The school follows the American curriculum, and it offers an education that prepares students for college and beyond. The school's mission is to provide a high-quality education that focuses on the whole child, and it aims to help students reach their full potential.

Parents can choose from a range of schools offering different curriculums and educational philosophies to find the best fit for their children. It's recommended to visit each school, meet with the staff, and learn more about their programs and facilities before making a final decision.

Sport

Sports are an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, and Business Bay offers a range of options for both kids and adults. Here are some of the best sports facilities in Business Bay:

For kids

1. My Gym offers classes for children between the ages of 6 weeks and 10 years, with a focus on fitness, coordination, and motor skills. They have experienced instructors and a fun, safe environment for kids to learn and play.

2. Located in the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Ice Rink is a great place for kids to learn how to ice skate. They offer lessons for all ages and skill levels, as well as public skating sessions.

3. Little Kickers is a football program designed specifically for children aged 18 months to 7 years. They offer classes that focus on developing children's physical skills, confidence, and teamwork.

For adults

1. Fitness First is a popular gym chain in Dubai with a location in Business Bay. They offer a range of fitness classes, including yoga, Pilates, spinning, and strength training, as well as personal training and nutrition advice.

2. The Pad Fitness Studio is a boutique gym in Business Bay that offers a range of fitness classes, including boxing, TRX, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). They have experienced trainers and a friendly, supportive environment.

3. The Warehouse Gym is a premium fitness facility in Business Bay that offers state-of-the-art equipment and a range of fitness classes, including CrossFit, boxing, and yoga. They also offer personal training and nutrition advice.

Healthcare

Business Bay in Dubai is a well-developed area that offers top-quality healthcare facilities for both residents and visitors. The district has several hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a wide range of medical services.

One of the most popular healthcare providers in Business Bay is Emirates Hospital Clinics, which is part of the Emirates Healthcare Group. They offer a wide range of medical services, including general check-ups, surgery, ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, physiotherapy, internal medicine, and more.

Another popular healthcare facility is the Aster Clinic, which is one of the largest clinics in Dubai. It offers a variety of medical services, including orthopedic surgery, dermatology, dentistry, and general practice (GP).

In addition to these facilities, Business Bay also has several other clinics and medical centers, such as Medcare Medical Centre and Medeor Hospital, which offer advanced medical care and treatment options.

1. Euromed Clinic Center is a top-rated healthcare provider offering a wide range of medical services. They provide expert care in areas such as dentistry, dermatology, gynecology, pediatrics, plastic surgery, and more. The clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and modern technology, making it one of the best healthcare providers in the area. They are committed to providing personalized care to each patient, ensuring that they receive the best possible treatment.

2. iCare Clinic is a comprehensive medical center offering high-quality medical services for the entire family. Their services include general medicine, pediatrics, gynecology, dermatology, dentistry, and more. The clinic is equipped with modern technology and experienced medical professionals, providing patients with personalized and efficient care. Icare Clinic also offers 24-hour emergency services, ensuring that patients receive immediate care when they need it.

3. Jupiter Clinic is a multi-specialty clinic providing a range of healthcare services. They offer expert care in areas such as dermatology, gynecology, pediatrics, general medicine, and more. The clinic is equipped with modern facilities and state-of-the-art technology, ensuring that patients receive top-notch medical care. Jupiter Clinic also has a team of experienced medical professionals who provide personalized care to each patient.

Overall, Business Bay provides easy access to high-quality healthcare facilities, making it a desirable location for those seeking medical treatment or looking for a place to live with easy access to medical care.

Churches, temples, and mosques

Business Bay is a bustling commercial and residential area in Dubai that offers a diverse range of places of worship for different religions. Here are some of the churches, temples, and mosques located in or near Business Bay:

1. Sheikh Rashid Al Maktoum Mosque. It is a mosque located in Business Bay that offers prayer services for the Muslim community.

2. Avenue Park Mosque. Another mosque located in Business Bay provides prayer services for the local Muslim community.

3. Bay Avenue Mosque. A modern mosque located on Bay Avenue, Business Bay, provides prayer services for the local Muslim community.

4. Al Ghafoor Mosque. A stunning mosque located in nearby Jumeirah 3 offers prayer services for the Muslim community.

5. Souk Al Bahar Mosque. This is a mosque located in the nearby Souk Al Bahar that provides prayer services for the Muslim community.

6. Dubai Mall Mosque. A mosque located in the nearby Dubai Mall offers prayer services for the Muslim community.

7. St. Mary's Catholic Church. A Catholic church located in Umm Hurair 2 that offers religious services for the local Catholic community.

8. Holy Trinity Church. A Christian church located in Umm Hurair 2 provides religious services for the local Christian community.

9. The Dubai City Church. A Christian church located in Umm Hurair 2 provides religious services for the local Christian community.

10. Emirates Baptist Church International (EBCI). A Christian church located in nearby Al Barsha 1 provides religious services for the local Christian community.

11. Gurunanak Darbar Sikh Temple. A Sikh temple located in nearby Jebel Ali provides religious services for the local Sikh community.

Overall, Business Bay and its surrounding areas offer a variety of options for different religions to practice their faith, ensuring that everyone can find a place of worship that meets their needs.

Entertainment

Shopping

Business Bay offers a variety of shopping options, from high-end luxury boutiques to more affordable retail stores. Here are some of the popular shopping destinations in Business Bay:

1. Bay Avenue Mall is a popular outdoor shopping destination located in Business Bay. The shopping complex is home to various retail stores, supermarkets, cafes, and restaurants.

2. The Dubai Mall is the largest mall in the world, located just a few minutes drive from Business Bay. It offers a wide range of shopping options, from luxury brands to affordable retail stores, as well as an array of entertainment options.

3. City Walk is a popular shopping and entertainment destination located near Business Bay. The complex features a mix of luxury and high-street fashion brands, as well as several restaurants and cafes.

4. Boxpark is a trendy outdoor shopping destination that combines fashion, art, and food. The shopping complex features a mix of local and international fashion brands, as well as various dining options.

5. Souk Al Bahar is a traditional Arabian-style marketplace located in Downtown Dubai and just a few minutes drive from Business Bay. The shopping destination offers a range of boutiques, souvenir shops, and restaurants.

Parks and Walks

Business Bay has several parks and walking areas, making it an ideal place for outdoor activities.

Bay Avenue Park is a popular spot for joggers and families looking for a relaxing stroll. The park features a children's play area, an outdoor gym, and a jogging track that circles the park.

Another option is the Dubai Canal Walk, which runs along the banks of the Dubai Water Canal. The walkway offers stunning views of the city skyline and is a great place for a leisurely walk or jog.

For those looking for a unique experience, the Dubai Water Canal Boardwalk is a floating walkway that runs alongside the Dubai Canal. The boardwalk offers stunning views of the canal and the city and is a great place to take a relaxing stroll.

Top 5 cafes and restaurants

Dubai Business Bay offers a wide variety of cuisines to choose from, including Middle Eastern, Asian, Italian, Indian, and many more. Some popular restaurants in Business Bay that offer these cuisines include Tong Thai, Matto, Tresind, 24th St. World Street Food, and Mythos Kouzina & Grill.

1. La Serre Bistro & Boulangerie offers French cuisine in a chic and stylish setting. The restaurant features a bistro on the ground floor and a bakery on the first floor. Their menu offers a range of French classics, including escargots, coq au vin, and bouillabaisse, as well as a variety of pastries and bread.

2. Matto is an Italian restaurant located in the Oberoi Hotel, Business Bay. The restaurant's decor is modern and funky, with a menu that features classic Italian dishes as well as some unique twists on traditional favorites. The restaurant also has an outdoor terrace with stunning views of the Dubai skyline.

3. Crab Market is a seafood restaurant that offers a range of crab dishes, as well as other seafood options. The restaurant's decor is nautical-themed, with a casual and relaxed atmosphere. The menu features a variety of crab dishes, including Alaskan king crab legs and soft-shell crabs, as well as other seafood favorites such as oysters and lobster.

4. Carnival by Tresind is an Indian restaurant that offers a modern and creative take on traditional Indian cuisine. The restaurant's decor is colorful and vibrant, with a menu that features dishes such as butter chicken and lamb biryani, as well as unique creations like "edible plastic" and "chicken 65 macarons".

5. Weslodge Saloon is a Canadian-inspired restaurant that offers a range of hearty dishes such as steaks, burgers, and poutine. The restaurant's decor is rustic and cozy, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant also has an outdoor terrace with stunning views of the Dubai skyline.

Many restaurants in Business Bay also offer delivery services, making it easy for residents and visitors to enjoy their favorite dishes from the comfort of their homes or offices. Popular food delivery services in Business Bay include Deliveroo, Talabat, Zomato, and Uber Eats.

Beaches

While Business Bay itself does not have any beaches, there are several popular beaches located within a short distance from the area. Here are some of the top beaches near Business Bay in Dubai:

1. Jumeirah Beach is a popular public beach located about a 20-minute drive from Business Bay. The beach features soft sand, turquoise water, and a stunning view of the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel.

2. Kite Beach is a popular destination for watersports enthusiasts, including kite surfers and paddleboarders. The beach is located about a 25-minute drive from Business Bay and features a jogging track, skate park, and several cafes.

3. La Mer Beach is a trendy beachfront destination featuring a range of restaurants, cafes, and retail outlets. The beach is located about a 15-minute drive from Business Bay and offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.

Nightlife in Business Bay

The nightlife scene in Business Bay has gained popularity in recent years. With a young and hardworking population, the area offers a variety of bars to relax after a long day and trendy clubs for party-goers on weekends. One of the most exclusive clubs in town, VIP Room Dubai, is located in the J.W. Marquis Hotel, the tallest hotel in the world. The club occasionally hosts celebrity visits, adding to its allure. Other popular nightlife spots in the area include Iris, Swim & Tonic, and The Backyard.

Location