Al Barsha 1 Dubai Complete Area Guide

Introduction to Al Barsha 1

Al Barsha 1 has one of the best connections and is a vibrant residential community in Dubai. Al Barsha 1 is part of a larger Al Barsha District, which also includes Al Barsha 2, Al Barsha 3, and Al Barsha South. Al Barsha 1 is the most sought-after subcommunity in Dubai due to its convenient location, housing choices, and lifestyle amenities. Al Barsha 1 Dubai, a sub-community in Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina that is known for its affordability, has become a favorite among expatriates.

Locating and connecting

Al Barsha 1 has a strategic location between Sheikh Zayed Road E11 and Al Khail Road E44. Al Barsha Heights is located between Al Khail Road (E44) and Sheikh Zayed Road (E11).

• Metro Stations nearby: Sharaf DG Metro Station and Mashreq Metro Station.
• Bus routes: RTA buses connect Al Barsha 1 to Dubai Marina, Jumeirah, and Downtown.
• Distances to drive:
  • Downtown Dubai in 20 minutes
  • Dubai Marina – 15 minutes
  • Dubai International Airport DXB – 25 Minutes
  • Al Maktoum International Airport is 35 minutes away

Al Barsha 1, with its excellent connectivity, is one of the best places to live in Dubai.

Real Estate in Al Barsha, 1 Dubai

Residential Properties

Al Barsha 1 has become one of Dubai’s most popular and versatile residential hubs. The area is a popular choice among singles, couples, and families. There are many housing options in the area, ranging from studio apartments to large family villas.

1. Studios

• Target residents: Students, young professionals, and singles.
• Features:
  
  • Small layouts (325 – 500 sq. ft.).
  • The typical layout includes an open-plan living space, a kitchenette, a bathroom, and, sometimes, a balcony.
  • Rents starting at AED 45,000.
• Studio apartments are highly in demand due to their proximity to metro stations and because they offer affordable prices.

2. 1-Bedroom to 3-Bedroom Apartments

• 1-Bedroom Apartments (1BHK):
  
  • Size: 700 – 950 sq. ft.
  • Best for couples and small families.
  • Average Rent: AED 50,000 – 65,000 annually.
    
• 2-Bedroom Apartments:
  
  • Size: 1,100 – 1,400 sq. ft.
  • Suitable for growing families.
  • Rent ranges from AED 80,000 to 10,000 annually.
• 3-Bedroom Apartments:
  
  • Size: 1,600 – 2,200 sq. ft.
  • Spacious layouts with multiple bathrooms and balconies.
  • Average Rent: AED 120,000 – 160,000 annually.

3. Accommodation in Serviced Apartments & Hotels

• Use: Tourists, business travellers, short-term stay guests.
• Features:
  
  • Modern decor and fully furnished.
  • Included services include housekeeping, WiFi, utilities, and concierge.
  • Restaurants and fitness facilities on-site
    
• Monthly packages starting at AED 5,001 – 7,500.
• The demand factor: business professionals with short-term contracts, and tourists to Dubai.

4. Apartments, Villas,  and Townhouses

• • Accessibility: limited but available in some parts of Al Barsha 1
    

• Features:

• • The average home has 3 to 6 rooms.
  • The garden, the maids’ rooms, and a covered parking.
  • The sizes range between 2,500 and 4,000 sq. ft.
• Rent: AED 180,00 – 280,00 per annum.
• Larger families prefer this type of home for its privacy, large interiors, and close proximity to schools.

Commercial Property

Al Barsha 1 has a vibrant commercial environment, which makes it appealing to small and medium businesses.

1. Showrooms and retail shops

• On the first floors of residential buildings and on main roads.
• The popular choice for convenience stores, restaurants, cafés, and fashion outlets.
• The proximity to the Mall of the Emirates boosts the retail activity.

2. Offices

• Al Barsha 1 has a growing selection of offices, primarily in mixed-use buildings.
• This is a great option for new businesses, consultants, and small to medium-sized enterprises.
• The sizes of offices range between 300 sq. Offices range in size from 300 sq. Corporate spaces up to 2,000 sq.
• Rent is cheaper than in Downtown and Business Bay.

3. Small Business Spaces

• Perfect for service businesses such as salons, clinics, and fitness studios.
• A diverse community creates a strong demand for services.
• Al Barsha 1 is home to many health clinics, gyms, and dental centers.

Why Invest or Rent in Al Barsha 1?

• Strategic Location: Direct access to Sheikh Zayed Road and close to the Dubai Metro.
• Lifestyle Amenities: Parks, shopping malls, restaurants, and schools nearby.
• Affordability: Cheaper compared to Downtown, JBR, and Marina, yet centrally located.
• High Occupancy: Strong demand for both short-term and long-term rentals.

Rental Trends in Al Barsha 1, Dubai

Lifestyle and Community

Al Barsha 1, a multicultural community, reflects Dubai. Residents from South Asia and the Middle East, as well as Europe and Africa, are attracted to this community. It is a family-friendly community, but also lively for young professionals.

• Families will enjoy the proximity to parks, schools, and hospitals.
• Enjoy a mix of cafes, casual restaurants, and fine-dining establishments.
• Al Barsha 1 has been deemed safe due to the presence of Dubai Police and community surveillance.

Al Barsha 1, Amenities

Shops and Retail

• Mall of the Emirates is a world-class shopping destination, with luxury brands and VOX Cinemas. It also has hundreds of restaurants.
• Carrefour (Union Coop), Lulu Hypermarkets, Al Mayas, Choithrams, and 24/7 mini-markets.

Enjoying Dining in Restaurants

Al Barsha 1 serves cuisines around the globe. You can choose from Indian, Pakistani, and Lebanese cuisines as well as fast food chains like KFC and Pizza Hut. Hotels like Novotel or Grand Excelsior offer upscale dining.

Health and Clinics

• Hospitals in the area: Al Zahra Hospital and Saudi German Hospital.
• Aster Clinic and Mediclinic are two of the many specialty clinics.
• Many pharmacies are open 24/7 and can be found on all main streets.

Education and Schools

Religions

• Mosques: Al Barsha Mosque, Fatima Abdullah Mohammed Rasheed Mosque.
• Barsha Heights, Jebel Ali.
• Bur Dubai is home to Hindu and Sikh Temples.

Recreation and Leisure

Parks and Green Spaces

• Al Barsha Pond Park – Equipped with cycling tracks, jogging paths, tennis and basketball courts, as well as a play area for children.
• There are many small parks in the surrounding area.

Sport and Fitness

• Gyms include Fitness First, Gold’s Gym, and GymNation.
• Studios of yoga and pilates.

Enjoy the Entertainment

• Ski Dubai: A ski resort located in the Mall of the Emirates.
• VOX Cinemas – Featuring all the latest films.
• Indoor play areas: Magic Plant and other kid-friendly centres.

Transportation and Parking

• Access to public transport: Metro and buses are easily accessible.
• Parking is provided in the buildings; however, public parking can be found, but it’s expensive.
• Traffic can be very heavy, particularly near the Mall of the Emirates during rush hours.

Cost of Living in Al Barsha 1

Al Barsha 1 offers a relatively low cost of living compared with prime locations like Downtown Dubai.

• Rent: mid-range and attractive to professionals, families, and those with children.
• Monthly grocery budget: 1,500-2,500 AED, depending on the size of your family.
• AED 30-60 per person for a casual meal
• Metro, bus, and car users must take into account fuel costs and parking.

Hotels and Short-Term Stays

Al Barsha 1 has many hotels that cater to both business and tourist travelers.

• Hotels: Novotel Dubai Al Barsha Hotel, Ibis Hotel, Grand Excelsior Hotel, eElAl Khoory Atrium.
• Hotel apartments: Ideal for serviced residences and short-term stay.
• Airbnb is a growing presence among tourists looking for homestays.

Job and Business Opportunities

Al Barsha 1 is located near business districts such as Media City and Dubai Internet City. Al Barsha 1, with its short commutes, is a popular choice for professionals. High footfalls and dense population make retail and F&B businesses flourish.

Al Barsha 1, Pros and cons of living in Al Barsha

Benefits

• Rents are affordable compared to central Dubai.
• Excellent connectivity and central location.
• Mall of the Emirates offers world-class dining and shopping.
• Families will enjoy the schools, parks, and hospitals.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Traffic congestion during rush hours.
• There may be maintenance problems with older buildings.
• The overcrowding of shared accommodation.

Future developments

Al Barsha 1, which is part of Dubai’s urban expansion, will be able to benefit from road extensions, infrastructure improvements, and perhaps even more modern towers. Travel times will be further reduced and property values increased with the upcoming improvements to metros and buses.

Conclusion:

Al Barsha 1 in Dubai is one of the most affordable and convenient residential communities. Its central location, ease of connectivity, variety of amenities, and multicultural atmosphere appeal to families as well as working professionals. Al Barsha 1, located in Dubai’s heart, offers an array of amenities, including proximity to the metro and schools, as well as quick access to leisure and shopping destinations.

FAQ’s

1. Rents in Al Barsha 1 Dubai, are they affordable?

Al Barsha 1, yes, is more affordable than other prime locations like Downtown Dubai or Dubai Marina. Studio apartments start at AED 45,000 per year, which makes it an attractive choice for residents on a budget.

2. Which is the most common property type available for rental in Al Barsha?

Due to affordability, proximity to the Mall of the Emirates and metro stations, as well as workplaces, studios, and 1-bedroom apartments, are in high demand. Many families prefer to live in a 2 or 3-bedroom apartment near parks and schools.

3. Where can I rent serviced apartments or hotels in Al Barsha?

Al Barsha 1 does offer serviced apartments that range between AED 60,000.- AED 85,000. They are perfect for those who need a fully-furnished apartment, whether they’re on a short-term stay, traveling for business, or tourists.

4. Do villas in Al Barsha have a rental rate?

While the majority of properties are apartments, there are a handful of villas and townhouses available for rent, with rates ranging from AED 180,00 to AED 280,00. They are mainly preferred by large families who want more privacy and space.

5. What is the cost of renting a two-bedroom apartment in Al Barsha?

A 2-bedroom apartment costs on average between AED 80,001 and AED 110,001 per year, depending upon the age of the building, its facilities,  nd the exact location in the community.

6. Is Al Barsha 1 suitable for short-term rentals?

Many serviced apartments are available in Al Barsha 1 with monthly or quarterly packages. This is a great option for tourists and professionals in Dubai on temporary assignments.

Last modified: September 10, 2025