HIGHLIGHTS
About Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
Gourmet restaurants, high-end retailers, a plethora of commercial facilities and internationally acclaimed art galleries, make up Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). It is a major global financial hub within the suburb of Dubai and in proximity to Downtown and Business Bay, for South Asian, African and the Middle Eastern markets. Simply known as DIFC, this leading financial centre is a 110-hectare district dubbed as the ‘gateway to growth’. Besides a thriving commercial zone, it is a vibrant residential community, lively and ideal for those seeking modern suburban lifestyle. Also suitable for frequent commuters, DIFC is one of the best areas in Dubai with public transport links seamlessly connecting to other parts of the city. Read on to find more about the locality, amenities and what it’s like living in the heart of Dubai.
In a Nutshell
- The leading financial hub for the Middle East, South Asia and Africa
- Boasts residential apartments, hotels and commercial and retail space
- A mixed-use development, free trade zone and a business community
- Home to some of the most exceptional art galleries in the city
- Features an impressive collection of some excellent restaurants
- Provides convenience and accessibility via two metro stations
COMMUNITY OVERVIEW
A mixed-use development at a prime location in Dubai
Properties in DIFC
On the residential side, DIFC houses several apartments for rent and sale. These are reasonable options for singles, couples and working professionals in Dubai as well as families. Developed for world-class modern living, almost all the buildings are of towering heights. You can find a wide collection of apartments ranging from studios to 3-bedroom units and also some 4 to 5-bedroom luxury penthouse suites.
One of the evident benefits of living in DIFC is its very proximity to Downtown Dubai, making it easily accessible if you happen to work there, or just wish to get down to this quintessential neighbourhood for shopping or leisure.
Apartments in DIFC Dubai
As for the commercial properties on offer, there are dedicated towers and complexes as well as mixed-use projects. You will either find shops and retail spaces at the ground level of residential blocks or a range of commercial unit in a completely dedicated office building. Check out the price trends and popular projects to make an informed decision
Parking spaces
As a popular commercial hub, traffic congestion is unsurprisingly possible, especially during the rush hour. So, if you want to travel to and from the area it is best to leave a little earlier or later. Moreover, most complexes feature dedicated parking spaces for residents, however, for visitors, finding public parking outdoors could be a problem as it costs around AED 10 for an hour.
Public Transportation in DIFC
DIFC is conveniently located with easy access to public transport. It is only a short walking distance from two metro stations – Emirates Towers and Financial Centre. There are also several bus lines in and nearby. You can also find plenty of taxis but since they are in high demand, hailing them during rush hour can be challenging.
Tenants may have to bear an extra cost for renting apartment near DIFC Metro Station
Amenities, Schools and Healthcare
This financial centre is also home to a myriad of amenities needed for a comfortable living. From supermarkets to places of worship, recreational facilities and even Dubai’s best family restaurants, there’s nothing you would have to go out of the town for.
Supermarkets in DIFC
There are a handful of supermarkets in DIFC where you can go for your regular grocery shopping. A lot of these supermarkets are found on the ground floor of different buildings within the community. Some of the supermarkets include the Spinneys Supermarket, BS Supermarket LLC, Fresh Mart Supermarket, Choithrams and Al Maya Supermarket. There are many outlets of Spinneys in Dubai, favoured for monthly grocery hauls. The popular supermarket chain around here is in Central Park Towers, open throughout the week.
Spinneys supermarket
Churches, Temples and Mosques in DIFC
To fulfil your religious needs, there is a mosque in DIFC. You can also find Ramadan Juma Mosque a little further away. The DIFC Grand Mosque in Gate Avenue is one of the most beautiful mosques in Dubai.
The nearest church is Dubai Seventh Day Adventist Church 15-minutes away and the Gurudwara, Shiva and Krishna’s Temples are just a 5-minute drive away from the area.
Schools in DIFC
For younger kids, there are a few nurseries. There is the Hummingbird Pre-School that is widely popular located in the area. British Orchard Nurseries in Dubai are quite notable. There are many branches of this school in different areas of Dubai and there’s one in DIFC too, located in Central Park Towers.
A pre-school within the neighbourhood
Babilou MENA is an option for parents looking for a school in DIFC. Other schools nearby include Hartland International School in MBR City and Horizontal International School in Umm Al Sheif. However, some educational institutions that offer specific courses include the Brighter Prep, the IE Centre, and the London Business School Dubai Centre.
Clinics and Hospitals in DIFC
You don’t have to travel far in search of hospitals or clinics in DIFC. There are several healthcare centres dotted nearby. The closest ones are the IMC Medical Centre, La Clinique DIFC and The Clinic. Al Zahra Medical Centre is also less than a 15-minute drive away, and so is Interhealth Canada Limited. You can also reach Oriana Hospital in just around 20 minutes.
The Clinic in DIFC Dubai
Nearby Areas
DIFC is situated right across Downtown Dubai that houses the tallest building, Burj Khalifa and the largest mall in the world. This puts DIFC residents in closer proximity to the most notable landmarks of the emirate, Dubai Opera and Dubai Fountain. It is also located along the same line as the World Trade Centre and Emirates Towers. Za’abeel 2 is located further into the opposite side of community while the Al Satwa sits right behind.
Lifestyle
SHOPPING, DINING AND NIGHTLIFE
Though aimed as a complete commercial destination, DIFC has evolved into a residential metropolis in the emirate with all kinds of amenities expected from any developed area in the UAE. Here, you will find a wide range of fine diners, casual meetup spots, family recreation points, outdoor activities and even Dubai’s best food halls.
Malls in DIFC
Gate Avenue is a highly anticipated fashion and retail destination. There are many shops in the establishment such as Sacoor Brothers, Suit Supply, Black Amber, His and Hers, Fiori Jewels and Collars and Cuffs. Other than that, residents can have an unfulfilled shopping fix while living in DIFC as they are only 8-10 minutes away from the city’s expansive shopping and leisure complex – The Dubai Mall.
It takes only 4 minutes to reach The Dubai Mall from Gate Avenue at DIFC Dubai
The community is not short of shopping avenues at all as there are a handful of exciting retail outlets here. There is the Fendi Dubai Mall Flagship for some high-end Italian fashion and accessories. You can also find the Flower Boutique if you want to buy some flowers and ornamental plants. There is also Momentum Dubai and Rivoli DIFC Dubai for watches and ALIEL for fine jewellery.
DIFC Restaurants
One thing you will not run out of is a place to dine in Dubai International Financial Centre. There is an abundance of restaurants in DIFC serving a varied range of taste buds. ShanghaiMe and La Cantine du Faubourg are two of the popular outdoor restaurants in Dubai with a friendly vibe. Also, you can choose from Gazebo for authentic North Indian cuisine, 1762 The Gourmet Deli Co. for their healthy food choices or La Petite Maison for French delicacies. For a range of Asian deliciousness, there is the Royal China Restaurant and the Japanese Zuma Restaurant. Miyabi Sushi and Bento is also a good option if you are looking for Japanese restaurants in Dubai on a budget. There are several other international options to choose from such as Beefbar, Al Mandaloun, Dusty’s and more.
If you’re on a custom gluten-free diet having a little sweet tooth, you can head to Healthy Patisserie in DAMAC Park Towers, a go-to place for vegan deserts in Dubai. The lovers of coffee and the quaint vibes of coffee shops can also find a haven here. From Caffe Bateel, Costa Coffee and Caffe Nero to Mercato, Panifico and Caribou Coffee, there are several more cafes in DIFC to catch up with friends, get some work done or to simply relax.
DIFC, Dubai’s hub of commercial activities
Art Galleries in DIFC
When it comes to leisure activities in DIFC, you will be up for a treat as the region is known for housing some of the best galleries in Dubai. Starting from The Empty Quarter, a gallery exclusively for fine arts photography featuring internationally renowned and established photographers. The Arts Club is also worth mentioning. All the way from London, the club has its first international outpost in this area, most loved by all literature and art fans. Andakulova Gallery which showcases central Asia’s contemporary visual art, to Christie’s, a gallery of extraordinary art that conducted the most celebrated auctions; there are several more galleries in DIFC you can explore. The most popular gallery would probably be the spectacular and internationally established Opera Gallery.
Outdoor Activities, Fitness and Beauty
Community Park in Dubai Investment Park is just 9 to 10-minutes drive away depending upon which side you are living in. You can also reach the Zabeel Park in just around 10-minutes by car. You will also only have to drive around 12-minutes to reach Dubai Garden Glow.
Dubai Garden Glow is a family-friendly place
To relax your mind and body, there are also several spas in DIFC. You can choose from The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Mind & Sense Spa, Spa Cordon and many more. There is also a men’s hair salon; Hommage Atelier, a nail salon; Style Beauty Lounge, and several ladies’ salons such as Ladies First Beauty Salon and others.
Upcoming Attractions
The development will expand to triple its size by 2024. As per DIFC 2.0 plan approved by Dubai’s ruler His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2019, the expansion of the neighbourhood will be carried out in multiple phases. The expansion will include more residential projects, retail area, office space and leisure destinations.
Things to Consider
Those living in DIFC Dubai enjoy many perks. However, one factor to consider if you are planning to move is that the region is highly populated and may not be favoured as a residential community by people with families or those who do not like crowded places. The lack of options for schools nearby also makes it an undesirable choice for families with school-going children.
FAQs About DIFC
What is DIFC Law?
DIFC, Dubai’s dedicated business community is most known for DIFC Courts, the authority that regulates commercial activities in the area. DIFC laws or regulations are designed by DIFCA and DFSA. All commercial and business activities must comply to these regulations.
How many companies are there in DIFC?
There are more than 2,400 registered and active companies in DIFC Dubai.
Is DIFC a freezone?
DIFC is a financial centric freezone area in Dubai.
Location
- Right next to Downtown, a walking distance (mere 8-minute drive)
- Directly neighbours another commercial hub of Dubai, Business Bay area
- Dubai International Airport in a little less than 15 minutes by car
- Sheikh Zayed Road is accessible in around 8 to 10 minutes
- An 11-minute short drive to the iconic, Dubai Fountain
