Pros and Cons of Living in Al Nahda Dubai: The Good and The Bad
Dubai is a city with many different areas, each with its own unique feel and appeal. The city combines new and old, creating a lively and exciting place to explore. Whether you're looking at the famous Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai or the charming old markets in Deira, there's a part of the city that fits everyone's tastes and way of life.
Al Nahda is a neighborhood that stands out because of its strong community spirit. This established area has a good balance of homes and businesses, making it a great option for people who want the convenience and energy of city life along with a sense of community and connection.
If you're considering moving to Al Nahda, here's a look at the many benefits and possible downsides to help you make a smart choice!
About Al Nahda
Al Nahda is a popular yet affordable neighborhood on the edge of Dubai, situated in the eastern part of Deira near the border of Sharjah. Throughout the years, it has changed from an industrial area into something much more.
Similarly to Al Muhaisnah, the area was originally carved out of the industrial areas in Al Qusais. Now, it's a vibrant residential community with shopping centers, stores, schools, and eateries catering to a diverse group of residents. This development has attracted many families and people who are seeking a pleasant and well-connected place to live.
Pros
Given the difference between its history and its current state, it's safe to say that Al Nahda has many benefits.
Quiet Lifestyle
Located away from the bustling heart of Dubai, Al Nahda offers a tranquil spot for those seeking a serene retreat. Unlike the skyscrapers and hectic pace of Downtown Dubai or the bustling tourist areas in Jumeirah, Al Nahda is definitely more relaxed and easygoing. This neighborhood features a blend of low and medium-rise buildings, appealing to families and young professionals who enjoy a quieter, more casual way of living.
Affordable
Any Dubai resident knows that rent around the city tends to be expensive and frankly, unaffordable for most. Luckily, Al Nahda is not a victim of the increasing rents! Al Nahda offers more affordable housing options compared to other areas in Dubai, making it a popular choice for those looking to save on rent. With a variety of residential buildings and amenities, Al Nahda provides a comfortable living experience without breaking the bank. Not only that, but it's also close to many public transportation options like the metro, helping you spend less on commuting prices.
Best of Both Worlds
Since it's located right on the border of Dubai and Sharjah, you can get the best of both cities in Al Nahda. Enjoy the convenience of being close to both bustling cities while still experiencing a quieter residential atmosphere in Al Nahda. Experience a diverse range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options just minutes away from your doorstep!
Healthcare Options
For those considering a move to Al Nahda, Dubai, the area offers a wide range of healthcare facilities, catering to both general and specialized medical needs.
NMC Speciality Hospital
Al Nahda is home to the highly-rated NMC Specialty Hospital. This 24-hour facility provides comprehensive medical and surgical care across a wide range of specialties. The presence of such a well-equipped hospital ensures access to advanced medical services within the neighborhood, offering peace of mind to residents, particularly those with complex medical needs or young children.
Prime Health
Prime Medical Center offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services in Al Nahda, from dermatology to cardiology. They cater to both primary and secondary care needs and provide a variety of specialized services with reputed doctors and advanced technology. Whether you need a routine check-up or specialized treatment, Prime Medical Center is equipped to meet your healthcare needs efficiently and effectively.
Aster Clinic
There are actually three Aster Clinics in the Al Nahda area! Two are located in Sharjah: Aster Clinic in Al Nahda Sharjah offers general practitioners, specialists like endocrinologists and pediatricians, and even an orthopedic clinic. The other branch mainly focuses on maternity and child care, with gynecologists and pediatricians available. Finally, the other Aster Clinic in Al Nahda Dubai provides a range of services including dentistry, ENT, gynecology, and pediatrics.
In addition to medical services, Aster Clinics in Al Nahda also offer diagnostic facilities such as laboratory services and a pharmacy. Patients can conveniently access a variety of healthcare options within the same vicinity, making it a one-stop destination for their medical needs.
Educational Institutes
You'll be pleased to know that Al Nahda holds a huge selection of educational options for your children. The area boasts a diverse range of schools catering to various curriculums and budgets. All this variety ensures you can find a school that aligns with your child's educational needs and your family's preferences.
Higher College of Technology Dubai Women's Campus
The Higher Colleges of Technology's Dubai Women's Campus, also known as the Al Nahda Campus, is a landmark educational institution for women in Al Nahda. Founded in 1989, it boasts a rich history of empowering female students by providing quality higher education. Originally starting with just a handful of students, HCT has flourished into a state-of-the-art facility spread over a vast area.
Today, it enrolls over 2600 students and offers a diverse range of Bachelor's degrees across fields like Applied Communications, Business, and Engineering Technology. The campus fosters a supportive learning environment specifically designed to cater to the needs of female students, preparing them for successful careers in a variety of industries.
Al Salam Private School & Nursery
Al Salam Private School & Nursery is a long-standing school in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, that follows the British education system. The school started in 1985 as a nursery in busy areas like Al Rigga, Al Muteena, and Al Nahda. In 1988, it grew to include primary and secondary classes. Al Salam is known for its affordable prices and strong academic results, making it a popular and good-value choice for education in Dubai. It often has a waiting list because many people want to attend due to its good reputation and successful teaching.
The Central School
The Central School is a long-standing school in the Al Nahda area of Dubai. It was started in 1982 and teaches children from kindergarten through high school. The school uses the CBSE teaching plan, which is famous for its focus on science and technology.
However, The Central School goes beyond academics by incorporating various methods in the KG section and offering a variety of extracurricular activities like arts, music, and sports. This holistic approach aims to nurture well-rounded individuals who excel not only in their studies but also develop their personal and social skills.
Activities and Leisurly Spots
While Al Nahda itself might not boast the glitz and glam of Dubai's tourist hotspots, it offers residents a surprising variety of leisure options.
Sahara Centre
Sahara Centre is a major shopping mall in the country, conveniently located near the Dubai-Sharjah highway. Since its opening in 2002, it has become a popular destination for residents of both emirates. The mall offers a mix of global and local brands, catering to diverse shopping needs. It also features a food court, entertainment options for kids, and a cinema.
Al Nahda Pond Park
Al Nahda Pond Park is a popular park in the Al Nahda neighborhood. This enormous 12-hectare park caters to all ages, with jogging and cycling tracks for exercise enthusiasts, playgrounds for the kids, and grassy areas perfect for family picnics and relaxation. The park even boasts a beautiful lake, a unique contrast to the city's urban landscape.
Al Mamzar Beach
Al Mamzar Beach is a popular beach park situated on the border between Dubai and Sharjah, just a short distance from Al Nahda. This family-friendly spot offers five beaches with distinct vibes, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or building sandcastles. It also boasts lush green areas for picnics, barbecue facilities, swimming pools, and even chalets for rent, making it a great option for a relaxing day trip.
Cons
Of course, nothing in life can be perfect, and living in Al Nahda may have some disadvantages.
Traffic
Anyone who's been to the edge of Dubai knows that the Sharjah to Dubai traffic is a living nightmare. Given that Al Nahda is right on the border between the two cities, you're more than likely to experience the worst of the traffic.
Not only is that a major inconvenience, but it can also significantly increase your commute time and add unnecessary stress to your day. Luckily, Al Nahda has its own Metro Station, allowing you to get anywhere around the city without the pesky traffic.
Distance from Landmarks
Al Nahda Dubai is quite far from popular attractions. In fact, the fastest route from Al Nahda to Palm Jumeirah is at least 30 minutes, and that's on the roads' calmer days. This distance can pose a challenge for those who work in Dubai but live in Al Nahda due to the daily commute and regular exposure to Al Nahda's traffic. However, many residents find the peaceful and family-friendly environment of Al Nahda worth the commute. The nearby Metro Station also helps in getting you to any landmark you need to go to in no time.
Hopefully, this guide gave you an idea of what life might be like when living in Al Nahda, and maybe even helped you make your big decision!