This Is What It’s Like to Live in Al Sufouh
Here’s the thing: Dubai is such a great city with all of its trimmings, but it can also get overwhelming. I mean, it’s even hard to decide where to eat at some point with all of those choices!
But what’s also great about this city is that if things get too busy, you can always escape.
And if there’s one area in Dubai where you get the sea, the sand and everything in between, it’s Al Sufouh. Curious now? Let’s explore one of the city’s best addresses.
What is Al Sufouh?
Al Sufouh is one of the more prominent neighborhoods in Dubai located on the city’s western coast and covering more than 7 square kilometers of land.
Within this development are several free zone areas including the Dubai Internet City, Dubai Knowledge Village and Dubai Media City.
Because of its massive scale, Al Sufouh is divided into two major districts: Al Sufouh 1 and Al Sufouh 2.
Al Sufouh 1 starts in Umm Suqeim Street and runs through part of Sheikh Zayed Road. Al Sufouh 2, on the other hand, is right opposite to the famous Palm Jumeirah.
This neighbhorhood is a combination of residential and commercial complexes including the headquarters of some of the world’s top tech companies.
But while there’s a lot going on in Al Sufouh, it still offers solace to its residents, thanks to its stunning coastline.
Best Time to Go
Al Sufouh is a place that’s best explored when the weather is fair in Dubai, especially if you’re going for the beach.
So, if you really want to make the most of your visit, it’s best to go during the winter when Dubai’s weather is warmer.
Things to Know
Whether you’re looking to move to Al Sufouh or just curious about what this area has to offer, we got a few fun facts for you:
- Al Sufouh is a family-friendly neighborhood with some of the best schools in Dubai within and around this area. This includes the prestigious GEMS Wellington International School and the Dubai National School.
- There are several places of worship around Al Sufouh including the Khalifa bin Saeed Al Maktoum Masjid.
- Al Sufouh is in close proximity to someof the city’s top medical facilities including Prime Medical Center and UOWD Medical Center.
- Al Sufouh is home to what residents call as “the secret beach.” Al Sufouh Beach stretches over 2.5 kilometers, but not a lot of tourists know about it, making this place a great spot for enjoying the beach privately.
How to Get Around
Where to Stay in Al Sufouh
Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Media City
Address: Al Sufouh – Dubai Media City – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 366 9111
Pricing: $$$
The Radisson Blu in Dubai Media City is one of the most luxurious hotels in Al Sufouh where you get to enjoy the signature Radisson brand of hospitality while being near the city’s top landmarks.
Just imagine being minutes away from the Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab while also being far enough that you’re in a more peaceful part of Dubai.
And with more than 246 rooms and suites to choose from and world-class amenities to enjoy, we wouldn’t be surprised if you’d want to stay longer in this hotel.
Arjaan by Rotana
Address: King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street – Al Sufouh 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 436 0000
Pricing: $$$
Arjaan by Rotana is a four-star hotel at the heart of Dubai Media City that’s a favorite among VIP guests who want luxury and privacy in one place.
Here, you can go for a hotel room if you’re staying for a few days or a fully furnished apartment if you’re extending your stay in Dubai.
But if you’re feeling a little luxurious, Arjaan also has 18 premium suites that will give you the ultimate privacy including your own temperature controlled plunge pool.
Holiday Inn Express Dubai Internet City
Address: Al Sufouh – Dubai Knowledge Park – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 427 5555
Pricing: $$$
Holiday Inn Express is a modern hotel in Knowledge Village that’s the perfect choice if you want to stay somewhere comfortable and close to Al Sufouh’s commercial complexes.
This hotel is designed for business travelers with its 24-hour business center, fitnecess center and several meeting rooms.
And when you’re done with business, you can relax in one of the hotel’s rooms and suites.
Where to Eat in Al Sufouh
Ciao Bella Restaurant
Address: One Business Center – Media One Hotel – Sufouh 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 52 144 7349
Pricing: $$$
If you’re craving good Italian food, there’s no better place to enjoy it than Ciao Bella. This chic restaurant in Dubai Media City gives you a taste of Italy in Dubai with its authentic offerings.
And what a feast you’ll have at Ciao Bella, thanks to its extensive selection of Italian favorites. Whether it’s cheese, pizza or pasta that you’re craving for, they surely have something to satisfy that.
Salero Tapas and Bodega
Address: Ground Floor – Kempinski Hotel – Mall of the Emirates – Sheikh Zayed Road – Dubai – United Arab Emriates
Phone: +971 4 409 5888
Pricing: $$
Would you rather have Spanish food? Salero Tapas and Bodega has all the good things you love about the cuisine.
When you get hungry while going around the Mall of the Emirates, stop by this beautiful restaurant to grab some tapas, a paella and maybe even some sangria while you’re at it.
Salero is also a favorite chill spot among locals because of its cozy ambiance and great crowd. Here, you can have brunch, go on a romantic date or just enjoy some drinks to end the day.
Pai Thai Dubai
Address: Jumeirah Al Qasr – Mdinat Jumeirah – King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street – Umm Suqeim 3 – Al Sufouh 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 800 323 232
Pricing: $$$
If there’s one place that serves good Thai food in Dubai, it has to be Pai Thai. This popular dining spot in Al Sufouh is a go-to for those who want to experience Thailand’s culture without leaving Dubai.
The menu here is extensive. But if you want the full experience, we recommend going for the 5 Taste of Thailand special menu where you get to enjoy the best flavors of the country.
What to Do in Al Sufouh
Relax in Al Sufouh Beach
Address: Al Sufouh – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
If you ask the locals, one of the best things about living in Al Sufouh is having Al Sufouh beach in their backyard.
Also called “the secret beach,” this beautiful piece of paradise is hidden behind a row of palm trees.
But if you’re lucky to discover it, you’ll be treated to a peaceful oasis where you can just relax, bask in the beautiful views of Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab nearby and not compete with other tourists for a spot.
Al Sufouh Beach is definitely a must-visit if you want to go somewhere quiet without going too far away from the city.
Get Some Adrenaline at Wild Wadi Waterpark
Address: Jumeirah Street Opposite Burj Al Arab – Umm Suqeim 3 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 348 4444
Wild Wadi Water Park is undoubtedly the best outdoor waterpark in Dubai with rides and attractions that you wouldn’t find anywhere else.
The entire park is inspired by Juha, a famous Arabian folklore character, and it offers slides, rides and activities that cater to all ages, making it a fun family destination.
Wild Wadi has a massive wave pool where you can take things easy and just float around all day. The kids have a lot of rides and slides to choose from, so they’ll definitely have fun.
Jump Off a Plane at Skydive Dubai
Address: Al Seyahi Street – Dubai Marina – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 377 8888
For the ultimate adventure, you can’t miss jumping off an airplane at Skydive Dubai. With the jump happening above Palm Jumeirah, you get a bird’s eye view of the entire island including Al Sufouh.
You also get to tick this off your bucket list and make your trip to Al Sufouh unforgettable. So, if you don’t mind being high up, you should definitely try skydiving.
Where to Shop in Al Sufouh
Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Address: King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street – Al Sufouh 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 4 366 8888
Shopping at Souk Madinat Jumeirah is more than just buying souvenirs. This shopping destination takes you back in time to Old Arabia with its unique architecture, beautiful ambiance and distinct charm combining the old and new.
But that’s not it because you also get to see Burj Al Arab nearby while you shop or just cruise around the property on a traditional abra while you’re at it.
Of course, if you ever get hungry after all that walking – and spending – there are a lot of restaurants and cafes to choose from. You can even dine al fresco by the water.
Mall of the Emirates
Address: Sheikh Zayed Road – Al Barsha 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Phone: +971 800 663 6255
Mall of the Emirates is one of Dubai’s premier shopping desitnations with more than 630 shops and 100 restaurants and cafes for you to choose from.
But even if you’re not looking to spend, this mall is still a must-visit because it has the Magic Planet, the Dubai Community Theater and Arts Center and Ski Dubai.
Which Neighborhoods to Visit in Al Sufouh
Al Sufouh 1
Al Sufouh 1 is undoubtedly the most popular community in the Al Sufouh area, especially since it’s a beachfront development that’s a huge advantage for those who want to live by the beach.
This community is lined with apartment complexes and gated compounds with amenities like tennis courts, fitness gyms and swimming pools.
Al Sufouh 1 also has several shops, schools, resorts and other establishments within and outside the neighborhood.
Rental prices here can start at AED 44,000 for a studio apartment and up to AED 105,000 for a thre-bedroom apartment.
Acacia Avenues
Acacia Avenues is where the affluent residents of Al Sufouh live. Covering more than 94,000 square meters, this gated community features both residential towers and private villas for those yearning for the ultimate luxury.
What makes this area special is its close proximity to Burj Al Arab, Madinat Jumeirah and Atlantis the Palm.
But you don’t have to leave the development to enjoy life because Acacia Avenues has several amenities like swimming pools, a health club, squash courts, children’s play areas and even shops.
The average yearly rental for a studio apartment at Acacia Avenues will usually set you at AED 39,000. But if you want a two-bedroom flat, that would cost you AED 85,000.
What to Expect from Weather in Al Sufouh
Winter: From December to March, Dubai enjoys the best weather during the winter season when temperatures can drop to as low as 16 degrees Celsius, making it the best time to explore the city.
Summer: Dubai is notorious for its extremely hot summers with temperatures going up as high as 40 degrees Celsius. Summer in the city runs from June to September
Transition period: Dubai has two transition periods from April to May and October to November.
Apps to Download When Visiting Al Sufouh
Visit Dubai: The most useful app to use when planning your trip to Dubai because of all the information you can get about the city’s top tourist spots
Uber: Booking a private car service to take you to and from Al Sufouh
S’hail: The best app to use if you’re using Dubai’s public transport system because it lets you check the schedule of buses, trams, the monorail, metro and even the water buses