A detailed guide to the Business Bay area in Dubai

Business Bay is one of the emirate’s main commercial and business centres. Construction of the district began in 2003, making it relatively new. Business Bay is designed to resemble Manhattan in New York, combining both residential and commercial buildings. Five years ago, it became the best investment area in Dubai.

The main advantages of Business Bay are:

• It is in the freehold zone, so a foreigner can buy a property here with full private ownership.
• Yield is approximately up to 6 per cent per annum.
• The area is ideal for business and investment.
• All major attractions are within walking distance or a short drive.

Target Audience

Originally created as a major business hub, the district focused on the construction of large office centres. However, after the economic crisis of 2008−2013, residential and commercial property became in demand. Known for its cosmopolitan lifestyle, Business Bay now attracts a diverse crowd, including young couples, professionals, business people and families with children.

Accessibility

The community is connected to the main and longest road, Sheikh Zayed Road, which starts at the Abu Dhabi border and runs through the entire city. Today, the road has been widened to 12 lanes, making it a major thoroughfare for the entire emirate. It connects a number of districts including the DIFC, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, JLT and Jumeirah.

On the other side, Business Bay is adjacent to Al Khail Road, which plays a key role in intra-Dubai travel. In recent years, new lanes have been added, interchanges widened and convenient exits created. Today, the road connects areas such as Dubai Hills Estate, JVC and Al Barsha.

The nearest metro station has the same name as the Business Bay district. A well-developed network of bus stops allows residents who do not yet have their own transport to reach the central points. There is also direct access to the DC1 and DC2 ferries. Important information for travellers: Dubai International Airport is approximately twenty minutes away by car.

Infrastructure

Many clients looking to buy property in Dubai are interested in the infrastructure of the area. Business Bay is fully equipped for a comfortable life. There are major supermarkets (West Zone Fresh, Spinneys, Choithrams, Gala), top restaurants (The Kana, Baron Gourmet, Piccola Milano, Katsuya, Moon) and the large Bay Avenue Mall.

There’s also good news for those considering Business Bay as a place to raise a family. Kindergartens (Hummingbird Nursery, Maple Bear Preschool), Express English Language Centre, pharmacies, a beautiful waterfront: all are essential for comfortable living.

Investment Attractiveness

Business Bay is the centre of business activity in Dubai, which creates a constant demand for residential and commercial property. The interest is driven by the large expat population of office workers and other organisations.

In 2020, Business Bay caught the eye of investors looking for affordable housing. The average return on investment in the area was 5.9 per cent.

Top 5 neighbourhood projects to invest in

Canal Heights Studios

1−4 bedroom apartments for sale.

Projected completion: third quarter 2026.

Two high-rise towers exclusively designed by De Grisogono Jewellery. Apartments overlook the Dubai Water Canal. Facilities: Landscaped swimming pool, green recreation area, gymnasium, tennis court, children’s playground.

Price: from AED 1 633 000 AED

Canal Crown

1−2 bedroom apartments for sale.

Estimated completion: third quarter of 2027.

A high-rise development with interiors inspired by the precious gemstone Chrysolite. The apartments overlook the Dubai Water Canal and Burj Khalifa. Canal Crown’s infrastructure is impressive: green recreational areas, space-themed SPA, gym, swimming pool with virtual reality elements, rooftop observation deck, relaxation capsules.

Price: from AED 2 253 000 AED

Urban Oasis

1−2 bedroom apartments for sale.

Estimated completion: fourth quarter of 2023.

A new project by Italian design house Missoni on the Dubai Canal is a true oasis in the city’s business centre. The apartments overlook the canal embankment. A bonus of Urban Oasis is its location: the top attractions of Dubai, such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, singing fountains and Dubai Opera, are within a five-minute walk of the complex.

Price: from 5 519 872 AED

Conclusion

As you can see, Business Bay is one of the most ambitious and largest real estate and business development projects in the emirate. The district will continue to grow and develop over the coming years, attracting new investment and providing more opportunities for businesses.