By dubailife 
Deira is Dubai’s oldest commercial district, bordered by Dubai Creek, Sharjah, and the Arabian Gulf. It’s a popular area for both living and working, and a major trading hub known for its famous Gold Souk, a hotspot for tourists.
According to Bayut & Dubizzle’s Dubai Rental Trends Report for 2020, Deira ranks as the 5th most popular area for renting apartments in Dubai. The report highlights that those seeking budget-friendly accommodation often turn to Deira. This guide provides essential information for anyone considering a move to Deira, Dubai.
**IN A NUTSHELL**
– Known as the commercial heart of Old Dubai
– Situated along the iconic Dubai Creek, near Bur Dubai
– Home to Dubai’s oldest mall, Al Ghurair Centre
– Features historic sites like the Heritage House and Al Ahmadiya School
– A vibrant trading hub for spices, textiles, and more, connecting with Asian and African markets
**COMMUNITY OVERVIEW**
Deira serves as a living testament to Dubai’s trading history, particularly in the Port Saeed area, which has been crucial in establishing Dubai on the global stage. The neighborhood boasts some of the oldest offices, government buildings, and retail centers in the emirate. Historical landmarks such as the Heritage House and Al Ahmadiya School offer a glimpse into the city’s rich past.
Despite its historical roots, Deira has evolved into a world-class tourist destination, featuring trendy hotels and bustling shopping malls. One of the greatest advantages of living in Deira is the deep cultural awareness it offers.
**Properties in Deira Dubai**
Deira’s thriving residential community is a popular choice for apartment rentals. The area includes neighborhoods like Port Saeed, Naif, Al Rigga, Al Muraqqabat, Abu Hail, Al Murar, and Riggat Al Buteen.
While there are a few villas in the sub-communities of Abu Hail and Hor Al Anz, Deira is not known for its villa communities. The area features a mix of older apartments and studios, making it popular with families, bachelors, expats, and locals.
As one of Dubai’s oldest residential areas, Deira currently lacks freehold properties, meaning expats cannot purchase homes here. However, this may change in the future with the completion of the much-anticipated Palm Deira development.
**Hotels in Deira Dubai**
Deira, known for its rich cultural heritage and bustling souks, is one of Dubai’s oldest neighborhoods. Many tourists and residents choose to stay in hotels nearby. Some of the top hotels in Deira Dubai include:
– **Avani Deira Dubai Hotel**
– **Crowne Plaza Dubai**
– **Hyatt Regency Dubai**
– **Coral Dubai Deira Hotel**
– **Hotel Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre**
**Avani Deira Dubai Hotel** is a 5-star establishment located in the Abu Baker Al Siddique district, just a short walk from the metro station of the same name. The hotel is conveniently close to Dubai International Airport, the spice and gold souks, and the Creek.
**Crowne Plaza Dubai** is one of the area’s oldest hotels, offering deluxe suites, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool. It also provides a free shuttle bus to Al Mamzar Beach Park. The hotel is situated next to Reef Shopping Mall.
**Hyatt Regency Dubai**, located on the Corniche, is a 5-star hotel famous for housing Dubai’s only rooftop revolving restaurant, Al Dawaar. The hotel also features an ice rink on the ground floor, along with a few retail shops and casual dining options.
**Coral Dubai Deira Hotel** is a 4-star property in the Al Muraqqabat area, offering amenities such as a business center, fitness club, spa, and rooftop pool.
**Hotel Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre** is a luxurious 5-star hotel connected to Deira City Centre. It offers rooms and suites with magnificent views of the creek, along with four renowned dining options. The hotel also hosts numerous community events throughout the year.
**Transportation and Parking in Deira Dubai**
Deira offers ample public parking, though it can be quite crowded during the week. Many apartment buildings lack dedicated parking, leading to competition for spots. Some have capitalized on this by opening private paid parking spaces in busy areas, charging AED 10 per hour.
**Public Transportation in Deira Dubai**
Deira is well-connected by public transportation, with plenty of taxis and buses available. The area is serviced by Al Rigga, Union, and Deira City Centre metro stations, the latter of which is connected to the shopping center.
**Schools and Universities in Deira Dubai**
Deira Dubai offers a wide range of educational institutions, including elementary schools and nurseries. Notable schools include Deira International School, which follows the UK/IB system up to Year 13, The Westminster School, and Dubai International School. Deira Private School offers the British curriculum up to Year 6. Universities in Dubai International Academic City are about a 30-minute drive away.
**Clinics and Hospitals in Deira Dubai**
For medical needs, Deira has several branches of Aster, NMC Deira, Prime Medical Centre Deira, and Joseph’s Clinic. Specialist consultations are available at Belhoul Specialty Hospital, a well-known private hospital. The area is also home to Al Baraha Hospital and Dubai Hospital, both reputable government hospitals.
**Nearby Areas**
Deira, located north of Dubai Creek, is near Bur Dubai, Al Qusais, and Al Garhoud. It is one of Dubai’s most densely populated areas, with heavy traffic from Sheikh Zayed Road, Emirates Road, and Mohammed Bin Zayed Road.
**Lifestyle: Shopping, Dining, and Nightlife**
Deira offers a unique blend of Old and New Dubai in its retail and dining options. Iconic malls like Al Ghurair Centre and Deira City Centre remain popular despite the emergence of newer shopping destinations. Deira’s historic souks, like the Dubai Spice Souk, attract thousands of visitors daily.
**Community Events**
Deira is never short of exciting events, from concerts at Boracay in the Asiana Hotel to exhibitions at the Al Ahmadiya School and Heritage House. Residents can also enjoy New Year’s fireworks at Mamzar Beach.
**Things to Consider**
Deira is one of Dubai’s oldest and busiest districts. While it offers a vibrant commercial environment, it’s not exclusively residential, leading to heavy traffic during weekdays. The buildings are older, lacking some of the amenities found in newer areas, and parking can be a challenge.
**FAQs About Deira Dubai**
– **Where is Deira located in Dubai?** Deira is Dubai’s oldest commercial district, bordered by the Persian Gulf, Sharjah, and Dubai Creek.
– **What are the best hotels in Deira?** Top hotels include Rove City Centre, Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre, and Park Hyatt Dubai.
– **How to get to Deira City Centre by bus or metro?** Bus routes 27, 88, and X28 pass near Deira City Centre.
– **What to do in Deira Dubai?** Shopping is a favorite activity, with options like City Centre and the Gold Souk. For family activities, visit museums like the Pearl Museum and enjoy a Dhow Cruise.
– **How far is Deira from Dubai Airport?** It’s about a 12-minute drive from Dubai International Airport.
– **Is Deira a city?** Deira is a mixed-use neighborhood in Dubai, often referred to as a city within a city due to its range of amenities.
– **What time does Deira City Centre open?** Deira City Centre is open from 10:00 am to 01:00 am daily.
**Location**
– Deira is a key commercial district with a vibrant residential community.
– It’s home to historic landmarks like the Clock Tower, Fish Roundabout, and the Dhow Wharf.
– Dubai International Airport is a 9-minute drive away via Airport Road/D89.
– Downtown Dubai is a 17-minute drive away via D78 and Sheikh Zayed Road/E11.
– Dubai Marina is 26 minutes away via Sheikh Zayed Road/E11.
– Palm Jumeirah is a 29-minute drive via Sheikh Zayed Road/E11.