Al Warsan

Budget apartments next to International City.

Apartments
Apartment building in east Dubai

Living in Al Warsan

Al Warsan is an area on the eastern side of Dubai, next to International City and Dragon Mart. Warsan First, its main residential part, has a mix of apartment buildings and newer projects, while the wider area includes business and warehouse zones.

It is one of the most affordable places to live in Dubai, popular with professionals and families on a budget who want quick access to the airport and the roads to Sharjah and Al Ain.

Warsan First has a mix of older apartment blocks and newer buildings, with supermarkets, small restaurants and service shops close by. The area is practical rather than glamorous, and its main advantages are low rents and quick access to the airport, Sharjah and the roads to Al Ain. Many residents work in Dragon Mart, International City, the airport or the business areas nearby.

Property types

Studios to two bedroom apartments, with some newer projects being completed.

Best for

Renters on a budget, and investors looking for low entry prices and high yields.

Prices and rents in 2026

Typical ranges for 2026, based on Dubai Land Department transactions and listing reports.

Studio

Around AED 300,000 to 420,000 to buy
AED 30,000 to 38,000 a year to rent

One bedroom

Around AED 450,000 to 650,000 to buy
AED 38,000 to 48,000 a year to rent

Two bedrooms

Around AED 700,000 to 950,000 to buy
AED 55,000 to 70,000 a year to rent

For investors

Al Warsan usually returns around 7.5% to 8.5% gross thanks to low prices and steady demand from budget renters.

Resale growth has been slower than in prime areas, and quality varies between buildings. The new Blue Line metro being built nearby could help over time. We compare buildings before you buy.

Low entry prices mean you can buy a ready apartment here for much less than in most freehold areas. The trade off is slower resale growth, so it suits investors who focus on rental income. Choose buildings with good management, working lifts and reasonable service charges, and check the rent history of similar units before you buy.

For families

Some families live here for the low rents. Schools are a short drive away in Mirdif, Al Warqa and Dubai Silicon Oasis.

Getting around

Al Warsan has quick access to Emirates Road and the Dubai Al Ain Road. Dubai International Airport is about 15 minutes away, Downtown Dubai about 20 to 25 minutes and Dubai Marina about 40 minutes.

Buses connect the area to the nearest metro stations, and the new Blue Line under construction is planned to bring a station closer. Most residents still drive or use taxis.

Nearby

Dragon Mart and the shops of International City are next door. International City, Dubai Silicon Oasis and Mirdif are close by.

Mirdif City Centre is about 15 minutes away for larger shopping trips.

What people like

  • Some of the lowest prices in Dubai
  • High gross yields
  • Close to the airport
  • Dragon Mart next door

What to watch

  • Industrial areas nearby
  • Older buildings in places
  • Slower price growth
  • Far from the beach

Common questions

Where is Al Warsan?

It is on the eastern side of Dubai, next to International City and Dragon Mart.

What is Warsan First?

Warsan First is the main residential part of Al Warsan, with apartment buildings and newer projects.

How much is rent in Al Warsan?

In 2026 a one bedroom is around AED 38,000 to 48,000 a year.

Is Al Warsan a good investment?

It offers high gross yields at low prices, but growth has been slower than prime areas.

Can foreigners buy in Al Warsan?

Yes, in the freehold projects such as those in Warsan First. We confirm each property.

This guide gives general information, last reviewed in October 2026. Prices, availability and project details change, so ask an advisor for current figures before making a decision.