HIGHLIGHTS
ABOUT AL SATWA
Al Satwa, often referred to just Satwa is a small district in Dubai. Bordered by Jumeirah and Bur Dubai, it is located close to Sheikh Zayed Road (E11). Though a small neighbourhood, Satwa holds great importance due to its prime location.
2nd December Street formerly known as Diyafah Street runs across the area where Etihad Museum is situated. Those interested in the history of The United Arab Emirates will find Al Satwa to be a fascinating place as the community is bound to its roots. It has just recently bloomed with many housing projects and commercial properties. Also, Al Satwa with its well-managed and wide network of public transport is one of the best areas for non-drivers in Dubai.
IN A NUTSHELL
- A family-friendly neighbourhood with mixed cultural vibe
- Close to key areas of Dubai including Jumeirah and Bur Dubai
- Affordable rentals and a wide variety of residential properties
- Good investment opportunities in residential plots and villas
- Numerous shopping areas and entertainment spots close by
- Lively community, home to Satwa Park
NEIGHBOURHOOD
COMMUNITY OVERVIEW
Many shops are dotted along the streets of Al Satwa. It is also home to one of the best family parks in Dubai. The streets are busy but the residential side is not too crowded. It is peaceful and vibrant in its unique way. Moreover, some residential communities are gated and guarded. Therefore, many families prefer moving to Satwa.
The area’s population is mostly expatriates and people moving from different parts of the UAE. Due to a majority of its Filipino residents and many Filipino specialty stores, Al Satwa is also known as Mini Manila. One can expect a lively environment while living in Al Satwa. It is ideal for those who appreciate social interactions and a friendly neighbourhood.
PROPERTIES IN AL SATWA
Satwa consists of a nice blend of residential and commercial properties. You will find a wide range of apartments and villas while the commercial side has a number of modern offices and retail spaces. The apartment buildings offer a variety of studios, 1-bed and 2-bed units. Considering the space and amenities, accommodation is reasonable.
Each unit is built with high-quality finishing and features spacious bedrooms, modern kitchens, well-fitted bathrooms and balconies overlooking the busy streets of Dubai. Furthermore, some complexes have community pools and fitness clubs. Those who wish to settle in a larger unit can rent villas in Al Satwa. These houses are usually based on 3 to 4-bedroom floor plans with a separate maid’s room, parking area and a spacious terrace.
Rental Trends in Al Satwa
Apartment Type | Average Rental Price in AED |
|---|---|
Apartment Type Studio | Average Rental Price in AED 39,000 |
Apartment Type 1-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 48,000 |
Apartment Type 2-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 70,000 |
Apartment Type 3-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 89,000 |
Rental studios are the major attraction for expats. These units are available for as low as AED 25k per annum. Whereas, the rents for 1-bedroom apartments are somewhere between AED 32k and AED 60k per annum. The spacious 2-bedroom apartments in Al Satwa can be leased out for a year in an average price of AED 70k. Those in search of more spacious units can rent 3-bedroom flats for AED 80k to AED 210k, annually.
Apartment Type | Average Rental Price in AED |
|---|---|
Apartment Type 2-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 74,000 |
Apartment Type 3-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 119,000 |
Apartment Type 4-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 148,000 |
The average rent for 2-bedroom villas in Satwa is AED 74k per year while the demand goes up to AED 119k for renting 3-bedroom villas. Likewise, more spacious 4-bedroom house can be leased annually for a year in AED 148k. If you’re looking to invest in a custom-built property in Dubai, there are plenty of residential plots for sale in Al Satwa.
Most Popular Communities in Al Satwa
Satwa Road or Al Satwa Road fares as the most popular. It is a bustling road with roadside eateries, shops and several amenities. Residential properties include apartments and villas as well as commercial plots for sale. It lies in proximity to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) which connects the area with other communities including Downtown Dubai, Bur Dubai and Jumeirah.
Another best area for renting and buying property in Al Satwa includes Makeen Residence and Al Diyafah Road. Makeen Residence Al Satwa is an apartment building offering a mix of 1-bed and 2-bed flats while latter is a stretch of road popular for a range of entertainment points and eateries. Al Diyafah Street is tucked inside Al Satwa stretching from the Union House to the World Trade Centre roundabout. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum changed its name from Al Diyafah Street to “2nd of December Street” as the UAE declaration was passed here on December 2nd, 1971. It consists of apartment complexes mainly with studios, 1 and 2-bedroom apartments.
TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING SPACES IN AL SATWA
Primarily, the residential towers and villas have dedicated parking spaces with reserved spots. Some are paid and some are not. Free parking spaces in Al Satwa can be found in the street and the basements of commercial towers. The streets are busy, therefore, visitors can park at a spot for a limited time and parking may be an issue for residents with more than one vehicle.
Public Transportation in Al Satwa
Getting around is convenient as there are plenty of bus stops nearby. The community is surrounded by bus stations which service many different parts of Dubai. So, RTA buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Satwa. Moreover, X13 is one of the popular bus routes connecting many areas of Dubai and those living in Al Satwa can catch one from many stations within the vicinity. The X 13 bus Dubai shuttles from Satwa Masjid, Satwa Bus Station and Satwa Post Office.
Nearby metro stations include the World Trade Centre and Emirates Towers on the Red Line of the Dubai Metro.
AMENITIES, SCHOOLS AND HEALTHCARE
The community might be small but it offers all the modern living facilities. 2nd December Street and Al Satwa Road are two of the busiest streets with a series of supermarkets, electronic shops, mobile shops and street food eateries. This area also has some grocery stores selling fresh meat, fruits and vegetables.
SUPERMARKETS IN AL SATWA
Apart from the series of grocers dotted around the town, there are several supermarkets in Al Satwa. Al Maya Supermarket, Yamama Supermarket and Spring Supermarket are popular choices within the area. Moreover, West Zone Supermarket is a popular and affordable supermarket chain in Dubai with outlets in many areas throughout the emirate. Al Satwa residents can access one at the Satwa Roundabout.
Also, there are five different outlets of the ZOOM mart situated at short intervals. Spinneys is only 8-minutes away in Jumeirah while Choithrams in DIFC is approximately at the same distance. Moreover, one can find the nearest Carrefour in Al Wasl and another on Sheikh Zayed Road.
CHURCHES, TEMPLES AND MOSQUES IN AL SATWA
The Muslim community will find plenty of mosques in Al Satwa within a short walking distance. The most visited ones are Rashid and Fatima Mosque and Khadri Mosque while Jumeirah Mosque is widely preferred for special occasions and large gatherings. The nearest Hindu Temple is Shiva Temple in Bur Dubai, roughly 15 minutes. The Mahamevnawa Buddhist Temple is 7 minutes away in Al Wasl.
Saint Mary’s Catholic Church on Oud Metha Road is the nearest church accessible in less than 10 minutes. Some other close-by churches include Emirates Baptist Church and Dubai City Church.
SCHOOLS IN AL SATWA
There are many schools in Al Satwa. GEMS Wellington Primary School, Wasl Girls School, Qurtoba Primary School, Jumeirah Baccalaureate School and Al Shaab School are some choices around the town. Pre-schoolers can go to Hummingbird Pre-School, Safa Early Learning Centre or Safari Kid Nursery. University options can be found in either Dubai International Academic City or Knowledge Village, both of which are 25 minutes away from Satwa.
CLINICS AND HOSPITALS NEAR AL SATWA
If you’re looking for hospitals or clinics near Al Satwa, you can head towards Al Badaa Health Center in the neighbouring community of Al Badaa. It is the nearest medical facility just behind the Shangri-La Hotel. It can be accessed for general physician follow-ups. Thumbay Hospital is a bit further away from the residential side of Al Satwa.
NEARBY AREAS
Al Satwa is set amidst many popular communities in Dubai. Hence, it is connected to the key landmarks, major road routes, commercial hubs and popular tourist attractions. Apart from Jumeirah and Bur Dubai, the residential communities of Al Wasl, Al Jafiliya and Al Hudaiba are located alongside the boundaries of Al Satwa.
Downtown Dubai, the central tourist destination lies in the south-eastern region of Al Satwa. DIFC, another key area of Dubai and a major financial hub is also a next-door neighbour to this self-sufficient community.
LIFESTYLE
SHOPPING, DINING AND NIGHTLIFE
Satwa is known for its happening street life, shops and restaurants.
MALLS NEAR AL SATWA
You can have the best of Dubai living in Al Satwa as the most popular shopping malls and leisure points are easily accessible. Citywalk and BoxPark are outdoor shopping malls near Satwa, and they have many retail stores and restaurants.
The mammoth Dubai Mall is also located near Satwa in Downtown Dubai. It features hundreds of shopping, dining and entertainment options. Other malls near Al Satwa are Palm Strip Mall, The Village Mall and Mercato Mall, located in Jumeirah.
RESTAURANTS IN AL SATWA
When the smell of delicious street food makes you hungry, you know you have entered the streets of Al Satwa. Those living here never run out of dining options. This area is filled with budget eateries, casual dining restaurants and small authentic restaurants.
Fast-food restaurants in Al Satwa include Al Mallah which is known for its signature shawarma and falafel sandwiches. Those looking for authentic Pakistani cuisine can visit the famous Ravi Restaurant and Karachi Darbar.
For something more upscale, fine-dining restaurants can be found in the hotels along Sheikh Zayed Road. These options can be reached within 10 minutes or less. Popular options include Tresind in the Voco Hotel, Chamas Churrascaria and Bar in the Crown Plaza Hotel and Okku in The H Hotel.
BEACHES NEAR AL SATWA
Jumeirah Public Beach near Al Satwa is a favourite picnic spot for families and singletons. The activities are endless, and there’s a lot of space for family picnics on the sandy shore. The best part is that the beach is accessible within 10-minutes.
LEISURE ACTIVITIES AND NOTABLE LANDMARKS
2nd December Street catches the eyes of visitors with colourful murals hanging over the buildings. Wearing the history of the United Arab Emirates, the area has transformed into an art gallery with the combined efforts of 16 artists. The view of Dubai Street Museum along 2nd December Street is one of the highlights of Satwa.
The heart of Al Satwa is its central location where can easily visit shopping malls and places of interest while the other touches Jumeirah Beach and Jumeirah Mosque.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, FITNESS AND BEAUTY
For the residents of Al Satwa, shopping is the favourite leisure and outdoor activity. There are jewellery shops, pet stores, drug stores, nurseries and gardening supplies stores. Necessities like car kits, textile equipment and hardware are also available on the streets.
Satwa Park
Al Satwa Park is the heart and soul of this community where families like to stroll around and spend quality time. It has dedicated play area and sports courts as well as jogging tracks. Green spaces in the area consist of Al Khazzan Park which is near Citywalk and Al Satwa Park. Visitors can take a stroll or grab a quick snack from HAPI in Al Khazzan Park. It is one of the best free parks in Dubai with playgrounds for children and a small library.
Those looking to keep fit can visit Star Gym Satwa, Sahin Gym and Muscle Power Gym. Salons and spas in Satwa consist of Mandara Spa, Bella Style Ladies Salon and Bodyline Ladies Spa. Gents can visit Diva Gents Salon, City Style Gents Salon and Golden Star Gents Salon.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
The streets are vibrant but there aren’t any community events held in Al Satwa. You can head out towards 2nd December Street on important occasions to witness celebrations.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
Streets in Al Satwa are busy, therefore, It might not be your choice if you want to live away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Those who work in neighbouring areas and are looking for a central residence that is on the affordable side can consider the properties in Al Satwa.
LOCATION
- Al Satwa is adjacent to Sheikh Zayed Road E11
- Bordered by Al Badaa, Al Wasl, and Al Jafiliya
- Burj Khalifa is 4.2 km away at a 10-minute drive
- Dubai International Airport is 14 minutes away via E-11
- Travelling to Downtown takes hardly 11 minutes via D-71 route
- The fastest route towards Dubai Mall is D-71 and 22D Street